Public education supporters in Kansas need to understand the importance of an independent judiciary. That independence was compromised last year when the legislature passed a bill to change how judges are selected for the appellate court. The first appointment was former Brownback aide Caleb Stegall who was then quickly elevated to the Supreme Court. Brownback has now named his second nominee, and questions remain. Be aware that there is a bill to make the same change to the Supreme Court nomination process.

“The new process, under which the governor nominates a judge who then must be confirmed by the Kansas Senate, was touted as a more democratic and open way to appoint judges. However, at least the way it is being used by this governor, the process seems anything but open.”

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2015/feb/01/editorial-closed-again/?opinion