J.D. Vance’s attempt to hinder April Perry’s U.S. attorney confirmation is an example of the worst kind of GOP politics.

By Editorial Staff Last updated Sep 18, 2023

TL/DR –

US Senator J.D Vance plans to block the appointment of April M. Perry to be the first woman to serve as a US attorney based in Chicago and all other appointments to the Department of Justice (DOJ). This move is in response to the DOJ’s investigations of Donald Trump and replicates the tactics of Senator Tommy Tuberville, who has stalled hundreds of military promotions since January. Critics argue that this strategy aims to undermine law enforcement and damage the Democrats’ image ahead of the 2024 election campaign.

Mitt Romney Criticizes JD Vance’s Attempt to Block DOJ Appointments

In a forthcoming biography by McKay Coppins, U.S. Senator Mitt Romney voices harsh criticism of Ohio Republican Senator J.D. Vance saying, “I don’t know that I can disrespect someone more.” The comment comes as Vance tries to halt the appointment of April M. Perry, set to be the first female U.S. attorney based in Chicago, alongside all other Department of Justice (DOJ) appointments.

This surprising move from Republicans, who historically advocate for law and order, is seen as an attempt to tarnish the Biden administration and Democrats ahead of the 2024 election. Despite the Senate Judiciary Committee approving Perry’s nomination, Vance has blocked it, troublingly due to his grievances over DOJ’s investigations of Donald Trump rather than any issue with Perry herself.

Vance’s tactics mirror those of Alabama Senator Tommy Tuberville, who has blocked hundreds of military promotions since the start of this year.

The Democrats have the opportunity to modify the rules and allow the nominations, but with a challenging Senate re-election map in 2024, they aim to keep the power of individual senators intact. Regardless, if Republicans gain control of the Senate, they may revoke this power from the Democrats.

The Senate could approve nominations individually through floor votes, although this would be a slow and complex process. Meanwhile, the U.S. attorney’s office in Northern Illinois has been vacant for half a year, impacting efficiency.

Despite the drawbacks, Vance is strongly urged to display integrity and allow Perry’s appointment to proceed.