Merrick Garland: New Attorney General of the United States
Early Life and Education
WEB Merrick Brian Garland was born on November 13, 1952, in Chicago, Illinois. He attended Harvard College and Harvard Law School, graduating magna cum laude from both institutions. After law school, Garland clerked for Judge Henry Friendly on the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and Justice William Brennan on the Supreme Court of the United States.
Career
United States Attorney
Garland began his legal career as a prosecutor in the United States Attorney's Office for the District of Columbia. He served as an Assistant United States Attorney from 1989 to 1992 and as the United States Attorney from 1993 to 1997. During his tenure as United States Attorney, Garland oversaw the prosecution of several high-profile cases, including the Oklahoma City bombing.
Federal Judge
In 1997, President Bill Clinton nominated Garland to the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. Garland was confirmed by the Senate and served on the court until his appointment as Attorney General in 2021.
Attorney General
Nomination and Confirmation
On January 20, 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Garland to serve as Attorney General of the United States. The Senate confirmed Garland's nomination on March 10, 2021, by a vote of 70-30. Garland was sworn into office the following day.
Major Initiatives
As Attorney General, Garland has focused on several key initiatives, including:
- Combating domestic extremism
- Protecting voting rights
- Reforming the criminal justice system
- Addressing climate change
Legacy
Merrick Garland is a respected and experienced jurist who has served his country with distinction for over three decades. As Attorney General, he is expected to play a leading role in shaping the Biden administration's legal agenda.
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