Elections: judicial; incumbency designation for judges; eliminate. Amends sec. 24, art. VI of the state constitution.
Impact
If passed, the amendment would directly alter election procedures for judicial offices by eliminating the incumbent status from the ballot. This could affect public perception of candidates, as incumbency often carries a significant weight in voters' decisions. Proponents of the bill argue that the current system reinforces an imbalance, as incumbents may benefit from name recognition and perceived credibility, which can overshadow the qualifications of challengers. Thus, HJRO is seen as a step toward promoting fairness and equality in judicial elections.
Summary
House Joint Resolution O (HJRO) proposes an amendment to the Michigan state constitution aimed at changing the way judicial candidates are presented on ballots. The resolution seeks to eliminate the incumbent designation for judges and justices when they run for nomination or election to the same office. By removing this label, the bill aims to create a more level playing field during elections, allowing voters to judge candidates solely on their merits rather than their incumbency status. This change is intended to enhance voter decision-making and potentially improve the electoral process within the judiciary.
Contention
Despite its intentions, the bill is not without dissent. Critics argue that removing the incumbent designation could obscure essential information from voters, making it more difficult to assess the qualifications and experiences of judicial candidates effectively. Some opponents worry that this lack of information may lead to confusion among voters, particularly in down-ballot races where judicial positions may not receive as much public scrutiny. Furthermore, there are concerns about the implications this could have on the overall accountability of judges and justices, as the current system allows voters to easily identify incumbents seeking re-election.
Constitutional amendments: state; deadline for filing petitions to amend the state constitution; revise. Amends sec. 2, art. XII of the state constitution.
Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to revise provisions relating to elections involving incumbent justices or judges who are unopposed. (BDR C-515)
Proposes to amend the Nevada Constitution to revise provisions relating to elections involving incumbent justices or judges who are unopposed. (BDR C-26)
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment to provide for State constitutional convention to reduce government spending and to reform system of property taxation.
Proposes temporary constitutional amendment to provide for State constitutional convention to reduce government spending and to reform system of property taxation.
Proposes constitutional amendment to eliminate judicial review of arbitration rulings in disputes between Judiciary and county concerning court facilities.