During the U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary's nomination hearing on July 30, 2025, the spotlight was on Mr. Dunlap as he expressed gratitude for his nomination and shared his personal journey. The hearing began with a pointed question from a committee member regarding the nominee's loyalty to the president versus adherence to the law, setting a serious tone for the discussions ahead.

Mr. Dunlap, visibly honored, took the opportunity to thank several key figures, including President Trump for the nomination and Senator Collins for her support. He highlighted the importance of family, acknowledging his wife and children as his primary motivation. "I would not be here without her," he stated, emphasizing the role of his family in his achievements.

As he reflected on his background, Mr. Dunlap noted that only one of his four grandparents attended college, while his grandfathers built their own businesses with high school educations. This personal history underscored his commitment to hard work and perseverance, values he attributed to his upbringing.

The hearing also featured a formal swearing-in of Mr. Dunlap and another nominee, Mr. Tongue, who affirmed their commitment to tell the truth before the committee. This procedural step marked the beginning of a critical evaluation of their qualifications for the positions they were nominated for.

As the hearing progressed, the committee's focus on loyalty and legal obedience hinted at the broader implications of the nominees' potential roles in the administration. The discussions are expected to continue shaping the narrative around the balance of political loyalty and legal integrity in government appointments.