“The sidelining of Thomas Farr is, in no uncertain terms, a nod to the powerful voice of grassroots advocates fighting for social change around the country. Since the 1980s, if not earlier, Thomas Farr has dedicated his career to voter suppression.

“As an attorney, Farr participated in the late Sen. Jesse Helms’ campaign strategy to intimidate black voters away from the ballot box. What’s more, he seems to have lied to the Senate Judiciary Committee about the depth of his involvement in this heinous, racist scheme. Farr was nominated twice before by President George W. Bush for this seat but his nomination failed. President Obama then nominated two qualified, independent African American female candidates in a row for the seat, who were rejected for purely political reasons. Farr’s lifetime confirmation would have been a new low for this Senate, which is saying a lot.

“Farr’s defeat is a victory for the people of North Carolina, who deserve independent, well-qualified judges. It is vital that even more senators continue to stand up for all Americans by only confirming judicial nominees who have proven that they will be fair, unbiased arbiters of justice.

“NCJW’s powerful network of grassroots advocates will continue to fight for the long-term health of our nation’s federal bench.”