The U.S. Senate on Tuesday confirmed Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe as a U.S. District Judge for the Middle District of Florida, marking another key judicial appointment backed by former President Donald Trump. The confirmation vote passed narrowly, 53–46.
Moe’s appointment is part of a continued effort by Trump and Senate Republicans to shape the federal judiciary, even amid ongoing political tensions in Washington.
Trump Celebrates Confirmation on Truth Social
Following the confirmation, Trump praised Moe in a post on Truth Social, highlighting her previous judicial experience and tough-on-crime stance:
“Anne-Leigh has fiercely advocated for Sunshine State residents as a Judge on Florida’s Second District Court of Appeals, and as Trial Judge on Florida’s Thirteenth Judicial Circuit Court. Anne-Leigh will prioritize LAW AND ORDER unlike other activist Judges who put the safety of Illegal Criminals over the safety of AMERICANS. Congratulations Anne-Leigh!”
Anne-Leigh Moe’s Background in Florida Law
Moe brings a strong legal background to the federal bench:
- Second District Court of Appeal Judge (since 2022)
- Former Circuit Judge in Florida’s Thirteenth Judicial Circuit, which includes Hillsborough County
- Former Assistant State Attorney in Tampa
Her confirmation adds another conservative-leaning voice to the federal judiciary in a key swing state, further solidifying Trump’s long-term impact on the courts.
Confirmation Comes Amid Government Shutdown
Moe’s confirmation comes as the federal government remains partially shut down—yet former President Trump appears unfazed by the political fallout.
According to CNN political analyst Harry Enten, the ongoing shutdown is not damaging Trump’s approval rating in the same way it did during the 2018–2019 shutdown.
“This shutdown hasn’t eaten into Donald Trump’s support at all. His net approval rating is actually up a point,” Enten said.
In contrast to the earlier shutdown, where 61% of Americans blamed Trump, only 48% assign him primary responsibility this time, according to Enten’s analysis. That shift may explain why Trump has shown little urgency in resolving the standoff.
Who’s to Blame for the Shutdown?
While many Americans often point fingers at the president during a government shutdown, it’s important to note: Congress controls the federal purse.
Democrats have vowed to block any spending bill that fails to extend key Affordable Care Act subsidies, which are set to expire at year’s end. Meanwhile, Republicans—despite holding slim majorities—have not secured the bipartisan support needed to move forward with a short-term funding agreement.
This means that, in practical terms, both parties share responsibility, but Democrats’ firm stance on healthcare funding is currently a central obstacle to ending the shutdown.
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