Yesterday, President Obama nominated seven people to fill seats on our nation’s federal district courts. While Senate Republicans have been busy finding new ways to obstruct (and new ways to dissemble to cover up their obstruction), the White House has been busy finding qualified judges.

This solid slate of nominations shows that President Obama is committed to ending the judicial vacancy crisis in the face of partisan opposition. It also shows his commitment to a federal bench that reflects the diversity of those whose lives the courts affect. The slate of seven new nominees include three women, two Latinos, a native Hawaiian, and three African Americans (one of whom is openly gay). It is also worth noting that two of the nominees have worked as public defenders.

As President Obama said when making the nominations:

"These individuals have demonstrated the talent, expertise, and fair-mindedness Americans expect and deserve from their judicial system," said President Obama. "They also represent my continued commitment to ensure that the judiciary resembles the nation it serves. I am grateful for their willingness to serve and confident that they will apply the law with the utmost impartiality and integrity. Too many of our courtrooms stand empty. I hope the Senate will promptly consider all of my nominees and ensure justice for everyday Americans. "

President Obama’s commitment to a diverse federal bench has been clear throughout his first term. This is a welcome sign that his commitment will continue into his second.