I am writing to urge your support for reforming the judicial selection process in Kansas. While Kansas’s current system is unique, it has serious flaws that concentrate power in the hands of a few and raise concerns about transparency, accountability, and the influence of special interests.
Why Reform is Necessary:
Lack of Accountability: The Kansas Supreme Court is currently selected by a commission largely composed of attorneys, giving significant decision-making power to unelected individuals. This process lacks transparency and limits public oversight in choosing our state’s highest judges.
Judicial Activism: Recent rulings by the Kansas Supreme Court, such as in Hilburn v. Enerpipe, Ltd. and Luke Gannon v. State of Kansas, have raised concerns about judicial overreach. These decisions suggest that the court is stepping into legislative matters, which undermines democratic principles and imposes financial burdens.
Elitism and Special Interests: The current system fosters an environment where judicial appointees may prioritize special interests over public accountability. This approach disconnects the judiciary from the democratic values that should guide our state’s governance.
The Path Forward:
A "We the People" Approach: I support a more democratic system that involves direct public involvement in the judicial selection process. This would ensure that the judiciary serves as a check on government without overstepping its bounds and better aligns with the principles of democracy.
Restore Balance: By adopting a more transparent and representative system, Kansas can ensure that its judiciary remains accountable to the people it serves, rather than to a select group of elites.
I urge you to support judicial selection reform in Kansas. By advocating for a more democratic process, you can help protect the integrity of our courts and ensure that our judiciary reflects the values and will of all Kansans.
I look forward to seeing your support for judicial reform in our state.
