DuBose appointed to U.S. District Court in historic vote

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WLNE) — History was made Tuesday when the U.S. Senate voted to confirm Rhode Island District Court Associate Judge Melissa DuBose to the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.

Following a 51 to 47 vote in favor of the appointment, Judge DuBose will be filling the vacancy left by Judge William E. Smith.

It’s a historical decision for Rhode Island, as Judge DuBose becomes the first black woman and first openly LGBTQ judge to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of Rhode Island.

“This bipartisan vote is great news for Rhode Island. Judge DuBose will make an outstanding addition to the federal bench. She has proven to be an exceptional jurist with a track record of ensuring trials are fair and efficient,” said Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse in a joint statement.

DuBose will take the new role at the start of 2025.