President Donald Trump has put forward Edward Artau, a judge and the son of Cuban immigrants currently serving on Florida's Fourth District Court of Appeal, for a position on the United States District Court for the Southern District of Florida, located in Miami. This nomination, highlighted by The Miami Herald, was announced via the social media platform Truth Social, where the president praised Artau's career and underscored his dedication to law, order, and "common sense"—qualities Trump deems vital in today’s judicial landscape.
"Ed has an outstanding record of restoring law and order, and most importantly, common sense (which, unfortunately, is lacking these days). I am confident that Ed will do an exemplary job for the state of Florida and our nation," President Trump stated.
Artau's Judicial Career and Background
Edward Artau, 59, was appointed to the Fourth District Court of Appeal by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2020, succeeding Judge Carole Taylor upon her retirement. He officially took office on June 30 of that year, after serving as a circuit judge in Florida's Fifteenth Judicial Circuit since 2014, where he was assigned to the Juvenile Division. His current term is set to expire on January 2, 2029, after being reaffirmed with 61.5% of the vote in the 2022 retention elections.
Before his judicial career, Artau was the General Counsel for the South Florida Water Management District from 2004 to 2014 and a partner at the law firm Marks & Artau, PA. His legal experience also includes working as an attorney at notable firms like Proskauer Rose LLP and Hodgson Russ LLP.
Educational Achievements and Teaching
Artau graduated cum laude from Nova Southeastern University and earned his Juris Doctor from Georgetown University, where he served as an editor of the Law Review. He has also been an adjunct law professor at St. Thomas University and was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from his alma mater.
He has received numerous accolades, including the Good Shepherd Award and the Founders Recognition from the Federalist Society, of which he is a founding member in Florida. Artau holds the highest professional rating of AV Preeminent from Martindale-Hubbell.
Leadership Roles in the Judicial System
Within the judicial framework, Artau has held significant positions, such as Dean of the Florida College of Advanced Judicial Studies, department head at the Florida Judicial College, and participant in rules, operational procedures, and judicial nomination committees at both the state and appellate levels.
Artau is being considered to fill the vacancy left by Judge Robert N. Scola Jr., who has taken on the role of chief judge and reduced his workload. The confirmation of Artau's appointment will require hearings before the United States Senate Judiciary Committee and a full vote.
This nomination is part of a broader effort by Trump, who has nominated five state judges, including Kyle Dudek, Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe, John Guard, and Jordan Pratt, for federal courts in Florida this week.
Frequently Asked Questions about Edward Artau's Nomination
Why was Edward Artau nominated for the federal judge position?
Edward Artau was nominated due to his strong track record in law and order, his commitment to common sense in the judiciary, and his extensive legal and judicial experience.
What is Edward Artau's educational background?
Artau graduated cum laude from Nova Southeastern University and earned his Juris Doctor from Georgetown University, where he contributed as an editor of the Law Review.
What roles has Artau held in the judicial system?
Artau has served as Dean of the Florida College of Advanced Judicial Studies, department head at the Florida Judicial College, and participated in various judicial committees at the state and appellate levels.