I want to thank the “Bridge Brigade” for bringing attention last Sunday to the way that the Kansas Supreme Court justices are currently appointed by the Governor. The August 4 election proposes a constitutional amendment that would change the appointment system to an elections system.
The resolution places a constitutional amendment on the ballot, changing how the state selects Supreme Court justices.
Supporters argue the current system would empower voters rather than leaving selections to lawyers and insiders in “smoke-filled back rooms.”
Critics warn it would politicize the court, flooding races with campaign money, attack ads, and donor influence, meaning “justice is for sale.”
Currently, a “governor appointed commission” screens candidates, then the governor chooses. However, the governor appoints the commission, so politics cannot are in play..
The reality: ALL SYSTEMS ARE POLITICAL.
“Appointments” concentrate power with governors and legal elites— less visible but still partisan.
Voting opens the door to big money and public pressure. Even the federal model of Supreme Court nominations and Senate confirmation is political.
The deeper problem is the immense power courts wield over immigration, school funding, elections, and everything else. As long as courts decide such issues, control over judicial selection will remain fiercely contested. Every method is political once the stakes are high enough.
Which brings me back to the question: How do I vote on this issue?
My rule of thumb is simple: if the “Bridge Brigade” supports it, I’m against it. If they’re opposed to it, I’m in favor.
That said, I do appreciate them bringing this issue to everyone’s attention. It gives those of us who disagree with their positions an opportunity to organize, engage, inform, and make the case against their policies.
Vote YES on SCR 1611 Kelley Judd Council Grove