Abid Qureshi

President Obama nominated the first ever Muslim to become a federal judge.

Pakistani American immigrant Abid Qureshi is a partner at law firm Latham and Watkins LLP and works as global chair of the company’s pro bono committee, one of the largest in the world.

The Senate must approve the nomination. 

“I am pleased to nominate Mr. Qureshi to serve on the United States District Court bench,” Obama said. “I am confident he will serve the American people with integrity and a steadfast commitment to justice.”

It’s unlikely Qureshi’s nomination to the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia will be confirmed. With just months left in Obama’s term, Senate Republicans have all but stopped confirming his judicial picks, including a supreme court justice.

Muslim groups praised the president for the pick.

“I commend President Obama for taking this important step in continuing to pick the best and brightest from every community to serve as part of our nation’s judiciary,” said Farhana Khera, executive director of Muslim Advocates, a legal advocacy organization. “A judiciary that reflects the rich diversity of our nation helps ensure the fair and just administration of the law, and it is vital for American Muslims to be included. Mr. Qureshi’s profound commitment to the rule of law and justice for people of all backgrounds makes him an exceptional nominee.”