The U.S. Senate has confirmed Anne-Leigh Moe, former Florida appellate judge and President Donald Trump’s nominee, to serve as a U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Florida. The confirmation passed narrowly in a 53–46 vote, highlighting the partisan divide in the chamber. Trump celebrated the decision on Truth Social, praising Moe’s dedication to “law and order” and portraying her as a defender of American values. Moe previously served on Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal and spent nearly a decade as a circuit judge in Hillsborough County. Before her judicial career, she worked as an assistant state attorney in Tampa, gaining extensive experience in criminal prosecution. Her appointment represents another key judicial victory for the Trump administration as it continues to fill federal courts with conservative judges.
Supporters of Moe emphasized her reputation for fairness and strict adherence to the Constitution. Trump contrasted her with “activist judges,” asserting that she would enforce the law without political bias. Backers highlighted her experience handling complex cases at both trial and appellate levels, viewing her appointment as a long-term reinforcement of conservative jurisprudence. The Middle District of Florida, known for its diverse caseload, is expected to benefit from her expertise and disciplined judicial approach, which could shape legal precedents in the region for years to come.
While the Senate confirmed Moe, political attention has also focused on the ongoing government shutdown. Analysts note that, unlike the 2018–2019 shutdown, Trump’s approval ratings have remained steady, with fewer Americans attributing blame to him. The impasse, driven by disputes over Affordable Care Act subsidies and partisan spending priorities, reflects deep divisions within Congress. Together, Moe’s confirmation and the continuing shutdown illustrate the administration’s sustained influence on federal institutions, as well as the persistent challenges of governance in a deeply polarized Washington.
