Hernando’s Chamberlin confirmed as federal judge

WASHINGTON, D.C. — In a 51-46 vote, the U.S. Senate confirmed Hernando, Mississippi’s own Robert P. Chamberlin as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Mississippi on Tuesday.

Chamberlin, a current Mississippi Supreme Court Justice and a long-time fixture in DeSoto County’s legal community, was nominated by President Donald Trump. His confirmation is the first of two anticipated votes this week for Mississippi judicial nominees.

U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., who voted for the confirmation, issued a statement praising the new federal judge’s qualifications and record.

“I’m pleased the Senate has confirmed Justice Chamberlin to serve on the U.S. District Court,” Hyde-Smith said. “His record on the bench in Mississippi as well as his community service make him very qualified to serve on the federal judiciary, which is why President Trump nominated him. I congratulate him and wish him every success in continuing to serve the people of Mississippi.”

Key Details on the Appointment

The confirmation vote was closely watched, reflecting the political gravity of a lifetime appointment to the federal bench. Chamberlin, who has previously served as a Circuit Judge for the 17th Circuit District, which includes DeSoto County, and as a State Senator, will now transition to the federal courthouse.

His new role as a U.S. District Judge for the Northern District of Mississippi gives him jurisdiction over federal cases throughout North Mississippi, including the region surrounding his hometown of Hernando.

The Senate also considered the second Mississippi nominee, fellow state Supreme Court Justice James D. Maxwell II, who was also approved by the body.