The U.S. Senate is set to adjourn on Monday without acting on Judge Maria Cenzon's nomination to the District Court of Guam.
U.S. senators are wrapping up their business on Sunday with more than 90 nominations on their executive calendar for action. Cenzon's nomination is not on the list.
Cenzon was nominated by President Donald Trump to succeed Chief Federal Judge Frances Tydingco-Gatewood, whose term expired in August 2016. Tydingco-Gatewood was renominated by President Barack Obama to another 10-year term but on Jan. 3, 2017, her nomination was returned to the president at the sine die adjournment of the 114th Congress.
Prior to her appointment to the bench, Cenzon worked as general counsel to Republican governor Eddie Calvo. Before joining the Governor’s office, Cenzon spent a dozen years litigating in private practice.
Tydingco-Gatewood continues to serve on the Guam District Court due to the White House and the Senate’s failure to appoint a judge.
The Trump administration didn't submit a nomination until Nov. 30. However, Cenzon's nomination came too late to be considered before the Biden presidency.
Gov Lou Leon Guerrero wasn't thrilled about Cenzon's nomination, saying her administration was not consulted.
The federal court on Guam has a single judgeship. Prior to Cenzon's nomination, also considered for the position was U.S. Assistant Attorney Mikel Schwab and former Gov. Eddie Calvo's legal counsel Arthur Clark.
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