Justice Graves confirmed to 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals

February 15, 2011

Mississippi: The U.S. Senate confirmed former Mississippi Supreme Court Justice James Graves to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit on February 14, 2011. Graves was nominated to this New Orleans-based court by President Obama in June of 2010, but, after receiving no response from the Senate, the nomination was resubmitted in January of 2011. Graves had the support of two Republican Senators from Mississippi: Roger Wicker and Thad Cochran.

Upon nomination, Graves stated, "This is an incredible honor...I am humbled by the support which I have received, and I look forward to serving our nation in this important position." Sen. Wicker highlighted Graves's past public service work with youth, stating, "Even in this position of increased responsibility and visibility, he will continue taking time to work with our nation's young people."The 57-year-old judge has served on the Mississippi Supreme Court for the past ten years. Gov. Barbour will appoint his replacement on the Supreme Court.