CHARLESTON, W.Va. — The judiciary committees in both the House of Delegates and state Senate began discussions Monday on bills that would change the election of judges to nonpartisan elections.
The plan covers races from Supreme Court justices to county magistrates, no longer would candidates have a “D”, “R”, or some other political affiliation following their names.
The proposal also would make the final election in the primary election, much like the current school board races across the state. The elections would also be split by divisions, potentially creating more one-on-one races.
The West Virginia Judicial Association, made up of 70 circuit judges across the state, does not oppose the legislation.
“To me not to oppose, basically something that effects judges this much, it’s almost the same as saying we support it,” Association president Jackson County Circuit Judge Tom Evans told members of the Senate Judiciary Committee Monday.
Senator Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell) said he supports the intention of the bill “wholeheartedly” but he expressed concern about the short election window.
“The thing is just going to be over with like that. It’s going to be over in 110 days,” he said.
Both committees are expected to have further discussions on the bills, which will include consideration of proposed amendments.
West Virginia is one of just seven states that elect judges on a partisan basis.