The president’s court pick had discussions with Alliance Defending Freedom, which is also involved in a case that could come before Bove if he’s confirmed.

Bove's nomination to the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeals now moves to the full Senate. Scores of former DOJ lawyers and retired judges say they fear his loyalty to Trump would carry over onto the bench.

The divisive nomination of Emil Bove, a zealous defender of President Donald Trump, to a lifetime seat on the federal appeals court that oversees cases in the commonwealth has generated intense reaction nationally and among former federal prosecutors and judges in Western Pennsylvania.