Cramer, Hoeven Secure Senate Confirmation of Judge Traynor to 8th Circuit

Senators Worked with White House to Advance Nominee after Judge Erickson Assumed Senior Status, Secured Approval by Committee & Full Senate

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WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and John Hoeven (R-ND) today issued the following statements after U.S. District Judge Daniel Traynor's nomination to serve on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eighth Circuit was approved by the U.S. Senate.

"Well, I'm just really proud of my friend Dan Traynor. I've known him for over 30 years. I've worked with him, was honored to support him for a district judge; he's exactly the kind of person that we need on the circuit," said Senator Cramer. "He's earned this-through his intellect, through his hard work, and through his really good decisions. I'm proud of him-and glad my colleagues agreed with me today and we finally moved Dan into that higher position he so richly deserves, and North Dakota so badly needs."

"Judge Traynor's confirmation is a well-earned honor, and we look forward to his continued service in the federal judiciary. The fact that it took just over two months to move his nomination through the Senate is a testament to the quality of Dan's record and reputation, and we appreciate our colleagues for working with us to fill this vacancy in a timely manner. His temperament, professionalism and deep respect for the Constitution will be a welcome addition to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals," said Hoeven. "We also extend our appreciation to Judge Erickson for his many years serving on the bench. Whether at the state district court, the federal district court or as a circuit court judge, Ralph has been a dedicated public servant, and we thank him for his hard work over the decades."

Hoeven and Cramer announced Traynor's nomination in May and have been working with the White House to advance his nomination to fulfill a vacancy resulting from U.S. Circuit Judge Ralph Erickson assuming senior status. The senators made the case for Traynor's nomination to their colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee during his confirmation hearing last month, with the committee advancing Traynor's nomination to the full Senate last week.