Senate

From Lawmaker to Lawbreaker: Former Connecticut Senate Lawyer Advocates for Reform After Serving Time for Embezzlement

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HARTFORD, Conn. — Michael J. Cronin, once a prominent attorney for the Connecticut Senate Republicans, has transitioned from legislative influencer to a vocal advocate for reform after serving three months in prison for embezzling over $250,000. Cronin, who played a vital role in shaping key legislative measures, including the state budget and criminal justice reforms, confessed to misappropriating funds over a six-year span, an act that sent shockwaves through the state’s political community. Cronin’s role as the top lawyer involved rigorous negotiations over pivotal legislation, where he was known for his legal acumen and expertise … Read more

Trump Names Kash Patel as FBI Director Nominee, Signaling Major Shake-up and Potential Senate Showdown

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WASHINGTON — President-elect Donald Trump has announced his intention to nominate Kash Patel, a close ally, as the next director of the FBI. This move, heralded by Trump as a measure against what he perceives as deep-seated conspiracies within the government, represents a significant challenge to the traditional operations of America’s leading law enforcement agency. It also poses a potential flashpoint for Senate Republicans during the confirmation process. Trump’s choice underscores his enduring grievance with federal investigations that shadowed his first term and subsequent legal challenges, including his indictment. By nominating loyalists like Patel to … Read more

Senate Democrats Opt to Withdraw Four Appeals Court Nominees to Secure Confirmation of a Dozen Judges

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In an effort to accelerate the confirmation of a dozen judicial nominees, Senate Democrats have made the decision to forego pushing forward four nominations to the federal appeals courts. The move reflects a practical approach to judicial appointments, focusing on where they can most efficiently confirm candidates in a tightly contested Senate. The strategy underscores the complexities of manoeuvring within the Senate where Democrats hold a slim majority. By prioritizing 12 district court judges who are seen as having smoother paths to confirmation, the party aims to fortify the judiciary with competent judges while contending … Read more

Democrats Hasten Judicial Confirmations in Response to Trump Triumph and GOP Senate Control

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WASHINGTON — In the wake of the recent U.S. presidential election, in which Donald Trump was victorious, and a concurrent GOP triumph retaining control of the U.S. Senate, Democratic lawmakers are hastening their efforts to confirm judicial appointments. This sudden push to secure confirmations comes amid concerns about potential shifts in the judicial landscape under a Republican-dominated Senate. The urgency from Democrats stems from an awareness that the composition of the judiciary can profoundly impact a wide array of policy areas—from civil rights to environmental regulations. Historically, the ability to appoint judges has been a … Read more