Senators Dave McCormick and John Fetterman have established a bipartisan commission to oversee candidate vetting for future judicial appointments to the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. This court plays a crucial role, serving one of the most populous regions in the country, which is also known for its legal complexities.
The commission will be co-chaired by Andy Reilly and Deborah Willig. Their primary responsibility is to review applications and guide the evaluation process for judicial candidates before forwarding recommendations for consideration. This commission is integral to shaping the federal judiciary by identifying nominees who possess the necessary experience, temperament, and integrity for lifetime appointments.
McCormick emphasized that the selection process must prioritize legal excellence and adherence to constitutional principles. He highlighted the need for judges who can apply the law fairly and competently. His colleague, Fetterman, noted the co-chairs’ significant leadership roles in the Philadelphia legal community. He stated that their extensive experience will help identify candidates who reflect and serve the diverse populations of Eastern Pennsylvania.
Reilly, who is of counsel at the Pennsylvania-based law firm Stevens & Lee, has decades of experience advising clients on government relations, regulatory issues, litigation, and complex business transactions. His public service credentials include working with municipal entities and participating on federal and state judicial and disciplinary panels. He has also led a U.S. Senate–appointed commission responsible for vetting candidates for senior federal law enforcement roles.
Willig serves as the managing partner of Willig, Williams & Davidson and is a nationally recognized authority in labor relations and employment law. With over 40 years in the field, she has represented unions across various sectors and played a pivotal role in significant collective bargaining negotiations. Willig made history as the first female chancellor of the Philadelphia Bar Association and has earned numerous accolades for her advocacy and leadership within the legal profession.
Applications for judicial appointments to the Eastern District of Pennsylvania opened on September 30, 2025, and must be submitted by December 31, 2025. The commission is expected to commence its review process shortly after the application deadline. This initiative could significantly influence the region’s federal bench for many years to come.
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