Sen. Tim Johnson's office says the U.S. Senate on Wednesday afternoon confirmed the nomination of Sioux Falls lawyer Roberto Lange to the federal bench.  Johnson's office says the vote was unanimous.

President Barack Obama nominated Lange for the judgeship after receiving a recommendation from Johnson earlier this year. Johnson spoke on the Senate floor Wednesday in favor of the nomination.

Lange will serve in Pierre, replacing Judge Charles Kornmann, who assumed senior status. He's a former federal law clerk and most recently practiced law in Sioux Falls.

Jeff Viken of Rapid City recently was confirmed by the Senate and filled the Rapid City docket.