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Thoughts? Stories? Relevant information?

How liberal are we talking here? Liberal like easier Rule 23 class certification or liberal like a substantive due process right to assisted suicide?

It must depend in part on the nature of the judge and his attitude toward hiring clerks of a different political persuasion. For example, Judge Kavanaugh, though a noted conservative, has in recent years hired a number of liberal clerks. On the other hand, one hears through the grapevine that Justice Alito hires almost exclusively people who are clear political conservatives. So a liberal writing sample, if it displays high quality thinking and writing, might not bother the former at all, but could knock you out of contention for the latter.

Anyone know of a judge where this would actually be a plus?

You know, overall, I think the quality of legal analysis is much more important than politics. I have been sort of impressed at how little politics generally has to do with clerking (which is good, because I am DEFINITELY a minority of one in my chambers, politicall). But I can't say for certain how this would play out in an overtly political application/writing sample (and I suspect it's more of an issue the higher up the food chain you get, as Gertrude Perkins's post sort of suggests. I think most district court judges just want not to be overturned, not to make some kind of political statement).

GertrudePerkins wrote:On the other hand, one hears through the grapevine that Justice Alito hires almost exclusively people who are clear political conservatives.

I have never heard this. Not saying I disagree, but I just haven't heard much about Justice Alito's clerks. Does anyone else have any information or thoughts on this?