President Obama is anticipated to make the nomination for the next federal judge for the Eastern District of Washington soon. 

Current U.S. Judge Robert Whaley announced his intention to take senior status in 2009, a benefit of lifetime appointment allowing him to take as many or few cases as he desires. 

Senators Maria Cantwell and Patty Murray have sent the president three names for consideration: Spokane attorney Les Weatherhead, Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Rice and Wenatchee attorney Stanley Bastian. 

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