Jefferson City, MO — This November, voters in Missouri will face the important decision of whether to retain two of their Supreme Court justices, Judges Kelly Broniec and Ginger Gooch, who are appearing on the ballot following their appointments last year by Governor Mike Parson. Both justices were appointed after a rigorous selection process overseen by the Appellate Judicial Commission, which includes lawyers, citizens, and is chaired by the chief justice of the Missouri Supreme Court.
The reappointment of a justice in Missouri involves a nonpartisan review, enabling voters to decide if the justices should continue based on their records and performance rather than political loyalty. Lincoln University political science professor Amy Gossett explained that this process ensures that judges focus solely on upholding the constitution without engaging in political campaigning or fundraising. This system poses a challenge for voters who must actively research the justices’ past rulings and legal philosophies.
Interestingly, the judiciary’s role was recently highlighted in a contentious decision regarding Missouri’s Amendment 3 — a proposal concerning the Right to Reproductive Freedom Initiative. In a closely split judgment, the state’s Supreme Court ruled 4-3 to keep the initiative on the November ballot with Justices Broniec, Gooch, and Zel Fisher dissenting, suggesting that the measures did not adequately disclose their impact on existing laws and the state constitution.
The dissent highlighted by the three justices focused on the transparency of the amendment’s language and implications, rather than the ethical content, emphasizing the legal rigor they apply to such critical decisions. This detail provides a glimpse into the judicial philosophy and decision-making criteria employed by Justices Broniec and Gooch, which voters might consider in the upcoming retention vote.
If retained, Justices Broniec and Gooch will serve for another 12 years, underscoring the significance of the voters’ decision in shaping the judicial landscape of Missouri. The state Supreme Court’s website offers resources that provide insights into the justices’ legal reasoning and past decisions, which can aid voters in making informed choices.
Such judicial elections underscore the responsibilities of citizens in a democracy to engage with the judicial system, not just during high-profile cases but also in understanding the daily functions and decisions of courts that significantly impact public policy and societal norms.
As the Election Day approaches, Missouri’s electorate has a critical role in deciding the future make-up of their highest court, thus participating in a key aspect of democratic governance and the rule of law.
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