Staff Reporter : Zahid Qureshi, a Pakistani-American, is set to become the first Muslim judge on a US federal bench. This federal bench is just one step below the Supreme Court. Qureshi’s appointment to the US Senate was confirmed in a 81-16 vote on Thursday. There has been jubilation in Muslim organizations over Qureshi’s appointment.
Qureshi will serve in the U.S. Federal District in the U.S. state of New Jersey. He was serving as a magistrate judge in the same state. He later joined the Homeland Security as an attorney specializing in government corruption, organized crime and financial fraud.
Salam al-Maraati, president of the Muslim Public Affairs Council, told New Jersey news outlet Northjerseid.com that Qureshi has paved the way for the future of Muslims in the American judiciary.
“We hope the White House appoints more judges, and the Senate approves it,” he said. We further hope that the Senate will remove obstacles to examining nominees in the religious litmus.
He received support from both parties for the appointment. But he got more support from the Democrats. New Jersey Senator Bob Menendez said Justice Qureshi has dedicated himself to serving our country. His story reflects the fact that everything is possible in America.
New Jersey Senator Corey Booker has recommended the appointment of 46-year-old Qureshi.
He also praised Qureshi for his patriotism, calling him a staunch man. He also said that he is a Muslim at the same time.
Qureshi was born in New York City to a Pakistani immigrant family. But grew up in New Jersey. He attended Rutgers Law School. However, he joined the military as a military prosecutor after the 9/11 attacks. He later served in Iraq in 2004 and 2006.
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