Following up on Ben’s post on the Florida District Judge ruling against the national mask mandate for public transportation, here is an illuminating analysis of her decision. This judge, nominated by Donald Trump, was confirmed after after President Biden was elected but before Biden was inaugurated. The ABA had deemed her “not qualified” for the federal bench. Although she held a number of clerkships, including one for Justice Clarence Thomas, she had never tried a civil or criminal case. She was 33 years old when confirmed. She now holds a lifetime appointment.