President Trump picks federal judge Brett Kavanaugh as Supreme Court nominee, says 'there is no one more qualified or deserving'

President Donald Trump has named Washington, D.C. federal judge Brett Kavanaugh to fill a

vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court following Anthony Kennedy's exit.

'Judge Kavanaugh has impeccable credentials, unsurpassed qualifications and a proven commitment to equal justice under the law. There is no one in America more qualified for this position, and no one more deserving,' Trump said in his announcement.

The President described Kavanaugh as 'one of the sharpest legal minds of our time' and urged the Senate to confirm his pick quickly. This incredibly qualified nominee deserves a swift confirmation and robust bipartisan support,' Trump said.

The announcement was a family affair. Kavanaugh was joined by his wife Ashley, and daughters Margaret and Liza. His parents were at the White House, seated in the audience next to first lady Melania Trump.

'Mr. President, I am grateful to you, and I'm humbled by your confidence in me. Justice Kennedy devoted his career to securing liberty. I am deeply honored to be nominated to fill his seat on the Supreme Court' Kavanaugh said. 

In his remarks, Kavanaugh touted his strong record with women throughout his career, noting he's hired a majority of female law clerks and that Elena Kagan, who is now on the Supreme Court, hired him to teach at Harvard.