In our continuing series of conversations on Arizona’s general election races and ballot initiatives, we’re talking about Proposition 115.
In the spring of 2011, a majority of lawmakers—after forging a compromise with the state’s judicial branch—moved to have voters decide whether to change some aspects of how judges are chosen in Arizona.
One key modification would have a judicial nominating commission give the governor eight choices to fill an open Supreme Court seat -- and all eight can be members of the same political party. Currently, the governor can pick from only three names and both the Republican and Democratic parties must be represented.
Former State Senate President Russell Pearce was a driving force behind the changes and testified before the house judiciary committee in March 2011.
On the show to talk about what became Proposition 115 are former Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Ruth McGregor, who is opposed; and State Representative Justin Pierce, representing the Yes on 115 campaign.