Senate Republicans Give Trump Two Big Wins

Missouri’s Republican senators praised the confirmation. Sen. Eric Schmitt celebrated the outcome, highlighting Smith’s record of fighting for conservative principles and the rule of law.

Sen. Josh Hawley described Smith as “a man of utmost integrity” and “the most kind-hearted, compassionate man you’ll ever meet,” emphasizing his commitment to impartial justice.

Republicans hailed Smith as a principled originalist who will interpret the Constitution as written, not as a vehicle for liberal activism.

His background includes significant work advancing pro-life causes, election integrity efforts, and challenges to overreaching federal regulations — credentials that make him well-suited for the Eighth Circuit, which covers Missouri, Arkansas, Iowa, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.