With the election of Barack Obama in November, the chances of a Republican lawyer to sit on the federal bench were likely dashed, but two Democrats may get the opportunity.



West Virginia's two U.S. senators recommended Charleston lawyer Herschel "Ned" Rose II, a former tax commissioner, and Kanawha County Circuit Judge Irene Berger for two federal judgeships.

Martinsburg lawyer William Powell was nominated for one of those spots in 2007, but his nomination was never confirmed by the Senate.

Presidents nominate judges, but generally follow the recommendations of senators in their party.

Berger would replace U.S. District Judge David Faber, who is in semiretirement, and Rose would replace the late U.S. District Judge Craig Broadwater, who died in 2006.

Information from: The Charleston Gazette, http://www.wvgazette.com

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