Watch CBS News

'Tweeter Laureate' Texas Judge Nominated For Federal Court

WASHINGTON (AP) — The tweeter-in-chief is nominating a Texas judge recognized as the state's first "Tweeter Laureate" for a federal appeals court.

President Donald Trump on Thursday named Texas Supreme Court Justice Don Willett one of four nominees for the 5th U.S. Court of Appeals.

His nomination would require U.S. Senate confirmation.

Don Willett
Don Willett (credit: donwillett.com)

The New Orleans appeals court has been an influential stop in recent years for high-profile Texas laws over abortion access, voting rights and immigration crackdowns.

Willett is a Republican and avid tweeter with nearly 97,000 followers. His zingers about Texas pride, life and the law prompted the Texas Legislature in 2015 to ceremonially name him "Tweeter Laureate."

Trump also floated Willett as a potential U.S. Supreme Court pick during his presidential campaign. That's despite Willett having previously tweeted digs at Trump.

(© Copyright 2017 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.