Voting for Judges?

[EagleChick19]

Originally posted by kddani
Some states have an appointed system like the federal judicial systems. Others, such as mine, have an election process.

Should judges be elected, thus having to campaign, etc. or should they be appointed? There's pluses and minuses to both sides.

If you are in a state that elects them, please try to find out some information about the different candidates before voting. I never paid attention before, but last night I attended a debate between the two candidates for PA supreme court and it really made me realize some things.

Judges affect you more on a daily basis that will ever realized. Their decisions shape and interpret the law, and they have immediate impact. Whereas it takes a senator or congress person a very long time to ever get a bill passed, judges make decisions every day that affect your lives.

All the hot button issues are ultimately decided by judges: abortion rights, same sex marriages, etc. etc.

So I guess this just a general reminder to be an informed voter, and also wonder the opinions as to whether judges should be elected or appointed?

Dani, I actually saw that debate. PCN got a live feed from Pittsburgh. After that debate, I'm voting for Judge Orie Melvin for the Supreme Court. On the Superior Court, I'm still not sure yet.