Early Life And Education

Merrick Garland: 86th Attorney General of the United States

Early Life and Education

Merrick Garland was born in 1952 in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated from Harvard College in 1974 and Harvard Law School in 1977. After graduating from law school, Garland clerked for Judge Henry Friendly of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and Supreme Court Justice William Brennan.

Legal Career

Garland began his legal career as a litigator in the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ). He later served as the U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia from 1994 to 2001. As U.S. Attorney, Garland oversaw the prosecution of several high-profile cases, including the Oklahoma City bombing and the Unabomber case. In 1997, Garland was appointed by President Bill Clinton to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit. He served on the D.C. Circuit for 19 years, during which time he wrote numerous opinions on important legal issues.

Supreme Court Nomination

In March 2016, President Barack Obama nominated Garland to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court created by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. However, the Republican-controlled Senate refused to hold a hearing on Garland's nomination, arguing that the next President should fill the vacancy.

Attorney General

In January 2021, President Joe Biden nominated Garland to be the next Attorney General of the United States. Garland was confirmed by the Senate in March 2021. As Attorney General, Garland has overseen several high-profile cases, including the prosecution of the January 6 Capitol riot and the investigation into the origins of the COVID-19 pandemic. Garland has also been a vocal advocate for civil rights and voting rights.

Legacy

Merrick Garland is a highly respected jurist and public servant. He has dedicated his career to upholding the rule of law and protecting the rights of all Americans. Garland's legacy is sure to be long-lasting.