Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman have announced the establishment of a bipartisan leadership team tasked with overseeing candidate vetting for future judicial appointments to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. This court plays a critical role in one of the nation’s most populous regions, with complex legal needs.
Co-chairs of the newly formed judicial selection commission are Andy Reilly and Deborah Willig. The commission will evaluate applications and guide the candidate assessment process before forwarding recommendations for consideration. Its mission is pivotal in shaping the federal judiciary, focusing on identifying nominees who possess the necessary experience, temperament, and integrity for lifetime appointments.
McCormick emphasized that the selection process must prioritize legal excellence and adherence to constitutional principles. He stated the need for judges who can apply the law fairly and competently, underlining the importance of a robust and impartial judiciary.
Fetterman highlighted the extensive experience of the co-chairs within the Philadelphia legal community, indicating that their backgrounds will enable them to identify candidates who represent and serve the diverse populations of Eastern Pennsylvania.
Andy Reilly, currently of counsel with the Pennsylvania law firm Stevens & Lee, brings decades of experience in government relations, regulatory matters, litigation, and complex business transactions. His public service includes work with municipal entities and participation in federal and state judicial panels. He has also led a U.S. Senate–appointed commission responsible for vetting candidates for senior federal law enforcement roles.
Deborah Willig, managing partner at Willig, Williams & Davidson, is a nationally recognized authority in labor relations and employment law. With over 40 years of experience, she has represented unions in both public and private sectors and has been pivotal in significant collective bargaining negotiations. Willig made history as the first female chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association and has received numerous accolades for her advocacy and leadership in the legal field.
Applications for judicial appointments to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania officially opened on September 30, 2023 and must be submitted by December 31, 2025. The commission is expected to commence its review process shortly after the application deadline, setting the groundwork for recommendations that could influence the region’s federal judiciary for years to come.
This initiative reflects a commitment to ensuring that the judicial system is equipped with qualified individuals who can uphold the law and serve the community effectively. As the process unfolds, it will be closely watched by legal professionals and constituents alike.
