Tenth Circuit Judge Tymkovich to Take Senior Status, Giving Trump New Seat

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Judge Timothy Tymkovich of the Tenth Circuit Court of Appeals has informed President Donald Trump that he will be taking senior status upon the confirmation of his successor. Tymkovich, a George W. Bush appointee who has served on the appeals court since 2003, is an influential judge on the Denver-based court. His decision to step back opens up a new seat for Trump to fill on the federal appeals court.

Why it matters

This vacancy gives President Trump another opportunity to appoint a judge to the federal appeals court, further shaping the judiciary during his time in office. The Tenth Circuit covers several politically important states, including Colorado, Kansas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Utah, and Wyoming.

The details

In a letter sent to President Trump on Tuesday, Judge Tymkovich informed the president of his decision to take senior status, which allows him to reduce his caseload while still serving on the bench. Tymkovich's successor will be nominated and confirmed by the Senate before he steps back from full-time duties.

• On February 24, 2026, Judge Tymkovich notified President Trump of his plans to take senior status.

What’s next

Once Tymkovich's successor is confirmed by the Senate, the judge will officially transition to senior status, opening up the seat for President Trump to fill.