Kahele on Jackson Supreme Court confirmation: 'Today, we celebrate a historic day for America'

Politics
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U.S. Rep. Kaiali’i Kahele (D-HI) | U.S. Rep. Kaiali’i Kahele

Ketanji Brown Jackson made history last week when she became the first black woman to be confirmed to serve on the U.S. Supreme Court and Congressman Kaiali'i Kahele (D-HI) joined other leaders in cheering her on.

Several Republican senators including Susan Collins (R-ME), Mitt Romney (R-UT) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) joined their colleagues on the other side of the aisle and voted to approve Jackson in a 53-47 vote, according to CNN.

"Congratulations JUSTICE Ketanji Brown Jackson," Kahele wrote in an April 7 tweet following Jackson's confirmation. "Today, we celebrate a historic day for America and march forward as a nation more representative of its people."  

CNN reported Jackson was the first black female to be installed to the high court. President Joe Biden had selected her as his nominee, fulfilling a promise he made during his 2020 presidential campaign. 

Her swearing in won't come until after Justice Stephen Breyer officially hangs up his robe and retires sometime during the summer, CNN noted. Her presence on the bench, albeit a major milestone, won't change the ideological balance from the majority of justices who preside over the court. 

According to CNN, until she makes the transition to the U.S. Supreme Court, Jackson will continue to serve at the U.S. Court of Appeals.