[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 35 (Monday, February 23, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E153]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       HONORING JUDGE KEVIN KANE

                                  _____
                                 

                           HON. GREG STANTON

                               of arizona

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 23, 2026

  Mr. STANTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Judge Kevin Kane upon his 
retirement after more than four decades of distinguished service to the 
courts and to the people of Arizona. Over his 44-year legal career, 
Judge Kane earned a reputation as a fair, thoughtful, and compassionate 
jurist who understood that the justice system works best when it is 
both principled and humane.
  Judge Kane has a deep commitment to public service and to improving 
how courts serve their communities. His career spanned roles as a state 
supreme court law clerk, public defender, and municipal judge, 
including service on the bench in Utah, Phoenix, and Tempe. He was 
appointed to the Phoenix Municipal Court in 2006 and became the first 
openly gay judge to serve on that bench, following more than a decade 
of prior service as a staff attorney for the court. In 2016, he was 
appointed Presiding Judge of the Tempe Municipal Court, a role he has 
carried out with distinction for the past decade.
  Under Judge Kane's leadership, the Tempe Municipal Court became more 
efficient and accessible. He made it easier for people to navigate the 
legal system, including expanding remote court access and creating 
partnerships to connect individuals with vital city services. Judge 
Kane continued to carry a full judicial caseload while making these 
reforms, demonstrating his commitment to both effective leadership and 
fair administration of justice.
  Judge Kane is especially recognized for his work advancing ideas that 
help people solve problems instead of getting stuck in the justice 
system. He served as Presiding Judge of the Maricopa County Regional 
Homeless Court and currently chairs the East Valley Regional Veterans' 
Court, which brings together legal and treatment professionals to 
support veterans facing challenges such as post-traumatic stress. He 
also presided over Tempe's Mental Health Court, which helps individuals 
with mental illness or developmental disabilities receive the care and 
support they need.
  Judge Kane's impact on Arizona's justice system is lasting. He leaves 
behind stronger institutions and countless lives positively affected 
through his commitment to service with compassion.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in congratulating Judge 
Kevin Kane on his retirement and in thanking him for a lifetime of 
service to Arizona and to the rule of law.

                          ____________________