U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin introduced Nicole Berner of Takoma Park to members of the Senate Judiciary Committee Wednesday as her confirmation hearing began.
Berner was nominated by President Joe Biden for a Maryland seat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit.
“Nicole Berner has been fighting for civil rights and worker rights throughout her career and breaking glass ceilings along the way. Her vast experience and diverse perspective will be of great benefit to the Fourth Circuit – and Marylanders,” Cardin said.
“Today, Nicole Berner clearly demonstrated her extensive qualifications and commitment to the rule of law. Drawing on her vast experience that has ranged from providing legal representation for working families and underrepresented communities to working as a litigator advancing civil rights, it’s clear that she is up to the task of serving the American people on the Fourth Circuit,” Van Hollen said during his introduction.
Berner is general counsel to the Service Employees International Union (SEIU), where she has practiced as in-house counsel since 2006. Previously, she served as a staff attorney for Planned Parenthood Federation of America in Washington, D.C. from 2004 to 2006.
Following the hearing, Maya Wiley, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, praised Berner, noting she “will be phenomenal and fair-minded.”
This morning I had the distinct honor of introducing SEIU General Counsel to be an appellate judge.
Nicole Berner has vast experience and a passion for justice. She has consistently fought for civil rights throughout her legal career.
She's just what our Fourth Circuit needs. pic.twitter.com/tFeOWKjGu7
— Senator Ben Cardin (@SenatorCardin) December 13, 2023
