Wes Hickman/Kevin Bishop

Graham Pushes for Additional District Court and Bankruptcy Judge for South Carolina

WASHINGTON -- U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina) today announced President Bush has nominated Judge Henry Floyd of Pickens to fill a federal District Court vacancy in South Carolina. Judge Floyd currently serves on South Carolina’s Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, a position he was elected to in May 1992. Previously, Floyd served as county attorney for Pickens, commissioner on the South Carolina Forestry Commission, and as a member of the South Carolina House of Representatives. Judge Floyd is nominated to fill the seat previously held by Judge Dennis Shedd who was promoted to the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in Richmond. “I have known Judge Floyd for many years,” Graham said. “The President could not have selected a more qualified candidate or a better person. He is a dedicated public servant and is well respected among his peers. He has consistently received praise from the South Carolina Bar and those who have practiced before him. “Judge Floyd has an exceptional legal mind, impeccable character, and a legacy of fair application of the law,” said Graham. “I believe his nomination to the federal bench reflects the high esteem South Carolinians have for him. I am confident he will serve the state well and faithfully execute the duties of the District Court.” Graham also addressed the issue of judicial nominations being slowed in the Senate. “Giving his judicial record, if Judge Floyd has any problems during confirmation, then the system is beyond repair,” said Graham. In other judicial matters, Graham noted the Senate Judiciary Committee recently passed a provision he authored with other Senators creating a new District Court judgeship and a new Bankruptcy Court judgeship in South Carolina. “The need for an additional district court judge and bankruptcy court judge is a result of South Carolina’s growth,” Graham said. “In order to better serve the citizens of the state we must help alleviate the increasing number of cases before each of our judges. In too many cases, justice delayed can turn into justice denied.” The Graham provision now faces consideration by the full Senate and the House of Representatives.