Democrats Walk Out Senate Judiciary Vote Trump Nominee Bove

Democratic Senator Cory Booker and his colleagues staged a walkout from the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing after Republicans, led by Chair Chuck Grassley, advanced President Trump's nominee Emil Bove to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit without any Democratic support. Booker criticized Grassley for rushing the vote and refusing to allow debate or hear from a whistleblower alleging Bove encouraged defying a court order related to the administration's deportation policy. Democrats also raised concerns about Bove's involvement in dismissing corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams, suggesting possible political quid pro quo. Grassley defended the swift vote and Bove's qualifications, citing precedent where Democrats had advanced nominees despite requests for further debate. The walkout underscored deep partisan tensions and accusations from Democrats that the committee was disregarding democratic norms and proper vetting procedures. Other Democrats described the hearing as a "kangaroo court," highlighting their frustration with the confirmation process.