Transition

US Patent Office Chief Kathi Vidal to Depart, Returns to Private Sector Ahead of Presidential Transition

by

Washington, D.C. – Kathi Vidal, current head of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and a former intellectual property lawyer in Silicon Valley, is set to leave her federal position next month, transitioning back to the private sector. Vidal, appointed by President Joe Biden, has served as the undersecretary of commerce for intellectual property since her confirmation in 2022. Her departure coincides with the anticipated inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, sparking interest about the timing and implications of her transition. Deputy Director Derrick Brent will step in as interim head following Vidal’s … Read more

Lawmakers Engage in Heated Discussions on Trans Bills, Guns, and Budget as Testimony Sheds Light on Gender Transition Challenges

by

Juneau, Alaska – Lawmakers in Alaska’s capital city convened on Wednesday to discuss a range of pressing issues, including transgender bills, gun regulations, and the state budget. The Senate Labor, Health and Social Services Committee dedicated a portion of the session to hear testimony from a young woman with a unique perspective on gender transition. Chloe Cole, a courageous individual who experienced a gender transition during her formative years, recounted her personal journey to the committee. Born biologically female, Cole realized at the tender age of 12 that she identified as male. Taking a bold … Read more

Longtime North Carolina Judge Announces Transition to Senior Status at Federal Appellate Court, Opening Vacancy

by

RALEIGH, N.C. – Circuit Judge Jim Wynn of the 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals has announced his decision to transition to senior status, reducing his role on the federal appellate court. Having served on the court since 2010, Wynn’s move to senior status will create a vacancy on the 15-member appeals court. Details regarding the specific date of this transition have not yet been disclosed. When judges choose senior status, they can opt for a reduced caseload while still receiving their salary as an annuity. Wynn, a native of Martin County, North Carolina, is … Read more