This week, the federal judge sat through over 20 hours of questions as part of her Supreme Court confirmation hearings. Some of the senators' questions involved efforts to understand her judicial philosophy (to rule "impartially") and whether she would recuse herself from a Harvard affirmative action case (she would). And then there were the other types of questions.
Whichever questions do you mean?
For hours, Jackson was asked about everything from race and baby books to how faithful she is "on a scale of 1 to 10." Some senators insinuated that the federal judge is lenient on child sex offenders. This, after Republicans on the committee said there'd be no "spectacle" or "political circus" from their side of the aisle. As Sen. Ben Sasse (R-NE) noted, people's "jackassery" comes to light when the cameras are rolling.
What did Jackson say?
That she would judge from a "neutral posture." That her "regret" is that lawmakers were focused on a "small subset" of her sentences in hearings about her qualifications. She also acknowledged that for women balancing parenthood and jobs, it "has not been easy." Yesterday, representatives of the American Bar Association described Jackson's credentials as "impeccable" and found no evidence she'd been lenient in her sentences.
What's next?
The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote on Jackson's nomination on April 4. Then it goes to the Senate, which could vote days later.
theSkimm
Jackson's nomination marks the first time in history that a Black woman — and former public defender — is on track to join the Supreme Court. But some in Congress met the moment with character attacks and nods to conspiracy theories. And yet so far, she has persevered.
And Also...This
While senators clock out after grilling KBJ…
There's Ginni Thomas. Yesterday, reports revealed the conservative activist — and wife of Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas — worked to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Text messages show Thomas called President Biden's win a "heist" and pressed then-President Trump's chief of staff, Mark Meadows, to "release the Kraken" and "help this great president stand firm." It's all part of the evidence Meadows gave to the January 6th panel before he stopped cooperating. And comes weeks after a court filing from the panel argued Trump and members of his campaign engaged in a "criminal conspiracy" to overturn the election.
Recuse me?: Thomas has so far resisted calls to recuse himself from Trump-related cases — despite his family's close personal relationship with the admin.
Where people are watching…
Ukraine. Yesterday, President Biden warned NATO "would respond" if Russia uses weapons of mass destruction in Ukraine. While he didn't reveal any specific intel suggesting it would, NATO is set to give Ukraine equipment to protect itself, including against chemical weapons. Biden is also calling for the Kremlin to get the boot from the G-20. And the US announced it will accept up to 100,000 Ukrainian refugees.
Whose partnership is going pedal to the metal…
Uber and NYC taxis. Starting this spring, New Yorkers will be able to order a yellow cab on the Uber app. It comes as companies are facing driver shortages. And riders are facing higher shares. But the move could equalize prices. Uber cool.
Who people are mourning…
The man who gave us the GIFt that keeps on giving.
Behaved. Beautiful. Boy-crazy. Society has a lot of ideas about how girls and women should act, look, and be. And a recent study found children internalize stereotypes starting as young as age 10.
Lilly Pulitzer imagines a better future. The brand's colorful prints are designed to inspire confidence and optimism. And this Women's History Month, they're launching a limited-edition collection. Plus donating $50,000 to Girls Inc., a nonprofit that inspires all girls to be strong, smart, and bold through direct service and advocacy. It's all part of their efforts to build a more equitable world. Learn more about the Keepin It Reel initiative here.
Scrap the Rules
Design: theSkimm
Women making the first move? Not so groundbreaking (anymore) thanks to founder of Bumble Whitney Wolfe Herd. Check out our timeline to learn more about the woman who transformed dating norms, along with other extraordinary women from all industries. Because these changemakers Scrap the Rules and empower future generations to play by their own (yep, including you). Presented by Fidelity and Lilly Pulitzer.
Skimm Life
Design: theSkimm | Photo: Amazon, Food52
If inflation is making your wallet sweat, we feel you. That's why today, we're focusing on recs that'll help you save money...either in the day-to-day or in the long run. Say hello to affordable finds, reusable must-haves, and more:
PS: Looking for Skimm Reads? Sign up for Skimm Your Life for book recs and more.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. A new comedy series about a new start. Drunk shopping sprees, bad work meetings, relationship drama, and awkward doctor's visits very much included. Every ep of Amy Schumer's hilarious new show"Life & Beth" is on Hulu *checks watch* now.† Start streaming.*
2. A podcast ep that's all about the money, money, money. In our latest "9 to 5ish," sponsored by Fidelity, we chat about all things finance with their Head of Women Investors, Lorna Kapusta. She even spills her number one money tip. Listen in.*
3. A vacuum that's super flexible so you don't have to be. This duo-cleaning machine comes with everything you need (hiiii, pet power brush, crevice tool, and lift-away pod) to get every bit of dirt, dust, and debris. No acrobatics required. Add to cart.*
4. Everything you need to feel your best this season (and beyond). We've got self-care products to share with a partner or friend, things to relieve annoying allergies, and tips on how to keep your teeth squeaky clean. 'Cause you're the main character.
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
†Sponsored by Hulu. Hulu subscription required.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Ball 'til you fall…Danielle H (PA). She is getting people pumped for the Women's NCAA Tournament through her initiative, Ms. Madness. The bracket winner donates money to a charity of their choice that supports girls.
(Some) Birthdays…Sheetal Pandya (CA), Samantha Cohen (NY), Harrison Bergman (FL), Gloria Ramirez (WI), Pete Strome (NY), Bob Belfer (NY), Angela Roberts (TX), Ashley White (VA), Becky Sanders (NY), Mia Mologousis (IL), Seffie Wilkinson (WI), Kat Hanes (CA), Rebecca Nielsen (MI), Laurie Rogerson (CA), Alice Coyle (MA)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
It seems like China is keeping a close eye on Russia's invasion of Ukraine. This week on "Skimm This," we explore whether or not China is waiting to make moves on Taiwan and ask an expert about the complicated relationship between the US, China, and Russia.
And if you're looking for other smart ways to spend your time…
Listentoour news podcast "Skimm This" for clarity on the biggest stories of the week.
