November Joint Session Confirmations

San Andreas State Capitol — In a Joint Session convened at 1:00 p.m. on November 24th 2025, the Seventy-Sixth General Assembly of the State of San Andreas voted to confirm four judicial nominees to the state’s highest courts. Lieutenant Governor Michael Hayes presided over the session, with all 58 members of the combined legislature present.

The Joint Session opened with a prayer by Senator Benny Harrison and the Pledge of Allegiance led by Representative Colleen Bowman before the Legislature proceeded to the constitutional duties outlined under Article VI, Sections 2 and 5 of the San Andreas Constitution.

House Resolutions 25-268, 25-270, 25-271, and 25-272 were read into the record, setting the stage for the consideration of the following nominees:

• Judge Elaine D. Bennett — San Andreas Supreme Court

• Judge Avery L. Cortez — San Andreas Supreme Court

• Judge Joshua D. Vandiver — San Andreas Court of Appeals

• Judge Olivia R. McNeill — San Andreas Court of Appeals

Each nominee addressed the Joint Session before debate and votes were held.

SUPREME COURT CONFIRMATIONS

Judge Elaine D. Bennett — Confirmed (32–26; 55.17%)

Judge Bennett spoke about judicial independence, the appellate record, and her commitment to constitutional fidelity. After remarks from both supporters and opponents, the Legislature confirmed her appointment to the Supreme Court.

Judge Avery L. Cortez — Confirmed (37–21; 63.7%)

Judge Cortez delivered an address on judicial restraint, appellate jurisprudence, and modern legal challenges. Her nomination received broad bipartisan support, resulting in one of the strongest confirmation votes of the day.

COURT OF APPEALS CONFIRMATIONS

Judge Joshua D. Vandiver — Confirmed (33–25; 56.8%)

Judge Vandiver outlined the importance of statewide appellate uniformity and reflected on his twenty-year legal career. After a balanced debate, he was confirmed to the Court of Appeals.

Judge Olivia R. McNeill — Confirmed (34–24; 58.6%)

Judge McNeill addressed sentencing philosophy, her background in family law, and her readiness for the appellate bench. She secured confirmation with a solid majority.

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