Salem News Staff and wire reports
WASHINGTON — The Senate confirmed Ketanji Brown Jackson to the Supreme Court on Thursday, shattering a historic barrier by securing her place as the first Black female justice and giving President Joe Biden a bipartisan endorsement for his effort to diversify the court.
Jackson, a 51 year-old appeals court judge with nine years experience on the federal bench, was confirmed 53-47, mostly along party lines but with three Republican votes. Presiding was Vice President Kamala Harris, also the first Black woman to reach that high office.
Jackson will take her seat when Justice Stephen Breyer retires this summer, solidifying the liberal wing of the 6-3 conservative-dominated court. She joined Biden at the White House to watch the vote, embracing as it came in.
On the North Shore, and around Massachusetts, Jackson’s confirmation drew praise and congratulations.
“The impact of Judge Jackson’s historic confirmation to the U.S. Supreme Court cannot be overstated,” said Essex District Attorney Jonathan Blodgett. “She is a proven, fair-minded jurist with a keen intellect and a demonstrated devotion to the Constitution and the rule of law. Her voice on the court will not only serve our nation well but will also spark the imaginations of countless young women and girls to seek new possibilities.”
U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-Salem, Tweeted congratulations to Jackson, adding “It shouldn’t have taken until 2022 for a Black female to ascend to the highest court in the land. But our country will be better for it.”