Murphy intends to nominate Republican Judge Douglas Fasciale to serve on New Jersey Supreme Court

Yesterday, Gov. Phil Murphy (D-N.J.) announced that he plans to nominate Judge Douglas Fasciale, a Republican appellate court judge, to the New Jersey Supreme Court.

The announcement occurred following ongoing negotiations between Murphy and a Bergen County lawmaker to fill the vacant spots on the Court, as the shortage of judges in the state has been seen as a crisis by state leaders, according to an article from NorthJersey.com. 

Fasciale has filled a vacancy on the Supreme Court since September 1, after being assigned by Chief Justice Stuart Rabner, to fulfill the role temporarily. If Murphy’s appointment is confirmed, he will permanently sit on the Court, according to the press release.

“It is my honor to announce my nomination of (Fasciale) to serve as the 42nd justice in the 75-year history of the New Jersey Supreme Court,” Murphy said. “His distinguished service as a judge spans nearly every part of the New Jersey Judiciary, preparing him well to serve on our state’s highest court.”

Murphy also said the nomination will provide a strong message to leaders across the U.S., which demonstrates the significance and presence of judicial independence over partisan politics.

The New Jersey State Bar Association’s Judicial and Prosecutorial Appointments Committee will receive the appointment first and a formal nomination will be sent to the Senate afterward, according to the press release.

“As someone who spent 17 years as a litigator and trial attorney in New Jersey courts, and then 18 years as a judge at different levels in our judiciary, I have devoted my entire career to the legal system of our state,” Fasciale said. “I am so grateful to have the opportunity to continue this service on our state’s highest court. I thank (Murphy) for this incredible honor, and I look forward to consideration from the Senate.”