Meet the Nominated Judges

NCJW opposes William Mercer. Here’s why: Mr. Mercer’s record raises concerns about his commitment to justice and constitutional principles. As both a federal prosecutor and a state legislator, he has advocated for excessively harsh policies, from appealing reasonable sentences for nonviolent offenses to supporting legislation that would expand mass incarceration. His attempts at redirecting public … Continued

NCJW opposes Joshua Dunlap. Here’s why: Mr. Dunlap’s record shows a consistent effort to undermine civil rights and democratic norms in support of far-right ideology. He has advocated for broad religious exemptions that would weaken anti-discrimination laws and opposed LGBTQ+ equality measures. He has defended corporate interests, including predatory banks and opioid manufacturers, often at … Continued

NCJW opposes Eric Tung. Here’s why: Mr. Tung’s record is indicative of a disturbing pattern of ideological extremism that calls into question his fitness for the federal bench. From his university writings attacking feminism and gender equality to his legal assaults on worker protections, Mr. Tung has consistently defended those in power over vulnerable people. … Continued

NCJW opposes John Guard. Here’s why: Mr. Guard has built a career advancing hardline conservative cases, from shielding the Sackler family with a controversial $7.4 billion immunity deal to joining Republican attacks on Dr. Fauci and President Biden’s COVID-19 policies. As Florida’s Attorney General, he defended the state’s 15-week abortion ban and challenged Biden-era immigration … Continued

NCJW opposes Chad Meredith. Here’s why: Chad Meredith’s record raises serious concerns about his ability to serve as a fair and independent federal judge. He has zealously defended anti-abortion laws, including efforts to block clinic licensing and impose medically unnecessary restrictions, earning praise from Kentucky Right to Life. He also defended Kentucky’s Right to Work … Continued

NCJW opposes Judge Jordan Pratt. Here’s why: Judge Jordan Pratt’s record reflects a deeply ideological agenda that calls into question his ability to serve as a fair and independent federal judge. From striking down safeguards for young people seeking abortion access to advancing a narrow, Christian nationalist view of religious liberty, Judge Pratt has consistently … Continued

NCJW opposes Judge Ed Artau. Here’s why: Judge Ed Artau’s record raises serious ethical and judicial concerns that make him unfit for a lifetime seat on the federal bench. From past ethics violations involving improper political advocacy to his refusal to recuse himself in a politically charged case involving former President Trump — despite clear … Continued

NCJW opposes Judge Cristian Stevens. Here’s why: Judge Cristian Stevens’ record and public statements raise serious concerns about his fitness for a lifetime seat on the federal bench. As a judge on the Missouri Court of Appeals, he has consistently sided with corporate interests over workers, opposing disability discrimination claims and limiting accountability for workplace … Continued

NCJW opposes Zachary Bluestone. Here’s why: With less than 10 years of legal experience, Zachary Bluestone falls below the threshold typically required for a “qualified” judicial nominee rating by the nonpartisan American Bar Association. His record in Missouri’s highly politicized Federalism Unit — where he took part in efforts to roll back protections for health … Continued

NCJW opposes Maria Lanahan. Here’s why: Maria Lanahan’s record raises serious concerns about her ability to serve fairly and independently as a federal judge. As Principal Deputy Solicitor General of Missouri, she has played a central role in advancing extreme legal positions that undermine fundamental rights. She helped lead the state’s effort to restrict access … Continued