Trump Nominates Greenville Attorney to SC Federal Court Bench

Sheria Clarke becomes the first Black woman nominated to serve as a federal court judge by Trump in his second term.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

President Donald Trump has nominated Sheria Clarke, a partner at the Nelson Mullins law firm in Greenville, South Carolina, to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina. Clarke is the first Black woman to be nominated to the federal court bench by Trump since he took office for a second term.

Why it matters

The nomination of Sheria Clarke, a Black woman, to the federal court bench is a historic move, as the federal judiciary has traditionally lacked diversity. This appointment could help address the underrepresentation of minorities and women in the judicial system.

The details

Clarke joined the litigation team at Nelson Mullins in Greenville in July 2024 after previously working at the firm and serving three years as an assistant U.S. attorney with the U.S. Department of Justice. She has also worked as counsel for the U.S. House of Representatives' Ethics Committee and was the staff director for the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform.

  • On February 12, 2026, President Donald Trump nominated Sheria Clarke to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.

The players

Sheria Clarke

A partner at the Nelson Mullins law firm in Greenville, South Carolina, who has been nominated by President Donald Trump to fill a vacancy on the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States, who has nominated Sheria Clarke to the federal court bench.

Tim Scott

A U.S. Senator from South Carolina who applauded the president's decision to nominate Sheria Clarke.

Lindsey Graham

A U.S. Senator from South Carolina who stated that Sheria Clarke is one of the most qualified candidates he's ever seen for the federal court bench.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Her career reflects integrity, excellence, and a deep commitment to the Constitution. South Carolina will be well served.”

— Tim Scott, U.S. Senator (X)

“Sheria is academically gifted and has the depth of knowledge and real-world experience to be exceptional in this role. She has the right demeanor to be a fair judge.”

— Lindsey Graham, U.S. Senator (Press Release)

What’s next

Sheria Clarke must be confirmed by a majority vote in the U.S. Senate before she can be appointed to the federal court bench.

The takeaway

The nomination of Sheria Clarke, a Black woman, to the federal court bench is a significant step towards increasing diversity and representation in the judicial system. Her qualifications and experience suggest she will be a fair and impartial judge who will uphold the Constitution.