Senate Agrees to Cloture on Judicial Nominee Anthony W. Mattivi 49-42; Debates Immigration, Attorney General Nomination, and FISA Section 702 Reauthorization
The Senate convened for a significant session on June 8, 2026, agreeing to a cloture motion for the nomination of Anthony W. Mattivi to be a U.S. District Judge for the District of Kansas, with a vote of 49-42. The day also featured extensive floor debate on pressing issues including immigration policy, the President's intent to nominate Todd Blanche as Attorney General, and the critical need to reauthorize FISA Section 702. Senators also passed several routine measures by unanimous consent, including a Congressional Gold Medal for the North Platte Canteen and a bill on lung cancer research.
The passage of the cloture motion for a judicial nominee advances a key appointment to the federal judiciary. The robust floor discussions on immigration, the Attorney General nomination, and FISA Section 702 highlight major policy and political divisions, signaling ongoing legislative battles and priorities for both the administration and the opposition. The reauthorization of FISA Section 702, in particular, was underscored as a critical national security matter with an impending expiration date.
Nomination of Anthony W. Mattivi
Executive Calendar No. 744Question before the chamber
Is it the sense of the Senate that debate on the nomination of Anthony W. Mattivi, of Kansas, to be United States District Judge for the District of Kansas, shall be brought to a close?
The case for
Senator Moran, a proponent of the nomination, highlighted Mr. Mattivi's extensive experience as a Federal prosecutor for over 20 years, where he handled complex cases involving drug trafficking, violent crime, and terrorism. Moran also noted Mattivi's strong leadership as the director of the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, emphasizing his dedication to public service and improving the judicial system. He expressed confidence that Mattivi's experience in the courtroom and in law enforcement would serve him well on the Federal bench.
The case against
No opposition to the cloture motion or the nominee was aired in the Record text provided.
Disposition
Cloture motion agreed to · recorded vote
Debate on the nomination was brought to a close, setting the stage for a confirmation vote.
Yeas 49, Nays 42
Who is affected
- The U.S. justice system: The advancement of a judicial nominee to a federal district court vacancy.
- The people of Kansas: Will be served by a new U.S. District Judge once confirmed.
Cloture on Judicial Nominee Advanced
highThe Senate agreed to a cloture motion for Anthony W. Mattivi's nomination to be a U.S. District Judge for the District of Kansas, with a recorded vote of 49 yeas to 42 nays. This action brings debate on the nomination to a close and schedules a confirmation vote for the following day.
Immigration Policy Debated with Sharp Partisan Divide
highSenators engaged in a contentious debate over immigration policy. The Majority Leader criticized Democrats for allegedly attempting to defund border security agencies, while the Democratic Whip countered by highlighting the Trump administration's ICE enforcement practices, including incidents of alleged misconduct and the deportation of individuals without criminal records, and the impact on DACA recipients.
Attorney General Nomination Draws Strong Criticism
highThe President's intent to nominate Todd Blanche as Attorney General was met with strong opposition from the Democratic Whip, who detailed concerns about Blanche's actions as Acting Attorney General, including the alleged creation of a "slush fund" benefiting political allies and January 6 insurrectionists, and his handling of the Epstein files. The Whip questioned Blanche's independence and loyalty to the President.
FISA Section 702 Reauthorization Urged with Proposed Reforms
mediumA Senator emphasized the critical importance of reauthorizing Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, noting its impending expiration and its role in national security. The Senator highlighted a bipartisan, bicameral bill that includes 11 additional reforms to enhance transparency and accountability, building on previous legislative efforts.
Routine Measures and Commemorative Resolutions Passed
lowThe Senate passed by unanimous consent the North Platte Canteen Congressional Gold Medal Act (S. 645) and the Women and Lung Cancer Research and Preventive Services Act of 2025 (S. 1157). Additionally, two resolutions, S. Res. 757 designating 'National Seersucker Day' and S. Res. 758 designating 'National Post-Traumatic Stress Awareness Month,' were agreed to en bloc.