Elections in odd numbered years are sometimes described as “off year.” Instead of voting for a prominent national office, governor, Congress or the state legislature, we elect municipal officials and “lesser known” statewide offices. On November 8, 2011, Pennsylvanians will select or retain state Supreme Court justices and judges on the Superior and Commonwealth Courts. These races might not attract as much attention, but this year the election is anything but “off.” Electing qualified, capable and value minded judges is just as important, or maybe more so, than electing the right governor or lawmakers. As part of our checks and balances system, the courts are the third equal branch of state government. Their role is to preserve the rule of law and guarantee the rights and liberties of citizens. Disputes are brought before the court seeking a fair resolution that upholds the Constitutions of Pennsylvania and the United States of America. Judges make decisions that affect everyone, including who has a right to life, what is marriage, when should religion be protected, who can adopt children, and many other important questions.
The challenge with judicial elections is finding information about the candidates on which to base your voting decision. Although a recent federal court ruling clarified that candidates can talk about issues, out of fear that their comments might prejudice future court cases, candidates for judicial office often do not share their personal positions on controversial issues. However, many special interest organizations do evaluate candidates based on their record or other public evidence of their philosophy. These groups often endorse one candidate over another.
We can understand a lot about candidates by reviewing their lists of endorsements. Catholics might be interested in a candidate’s stand on human life, school choice, marriage, social justice or other issues. An endorsement from the Pennsylvania Pro-Life Federation or Planned Parenthood gives us a clue about whether a candidate is pro-life or pro-abortion. The support of public education associations or taxpayer watchdog groups could, although not absolutely, shed light on how a candidate might feel about school choice. Endorsements from other like-minded political leaders who do speak out about issues can also provide insight into the philosophy of the candidate. It is said a person is known “by the company that he or she keeps.”
Every voter should take time to research the candidates. Many non-partisan organizations such as the League of Women Voters or your local newspaper publish voter guides, often including endorsements. The Pennsylvania Family Institute publishes a voter guide that touches on many issues that are also important to Catholics. But the most effective way to research is to contact the candidates themselves. Most judicial candidates have their own websites which proudly list the endorsements they received. Their campaign headquarters will also give this information upon request.
Who we elect to the bench sets the stage for how rights, liberties and justice will be upheld in public policy. During this “off year” election, we have a responsibility to elect judges who will be fair, responsible and “on target” to represent the values that make Pennsylvania great.
Retention Elections: Vote to retain Yes or No
Supreme Court:
- Justice J. Michael Eakin
Superior Court:
- Judge John T. Bender
- Judge Mary Jane Bowes
Commonwealth Court:
- Judge Renée Cohn Jubelirer
- Judge Mary Hannah Leavitt
- Judge Robert E. Simpson Jr.
Vacancy Elections: Vote for one
Superior Court of Pennsylvania:
- Victor P. Stabile (R) – www.stabileforjudge.com
- Judge David N. Wecht (D) – www.wecht2011.com
Commonwealth Court of Philadelphia:
- Kathryn Boockvar (D) – www.boockvar.com
- Anne E. Covey (R) – www.annecoveyforjudge.com
Other Resources:
- League of Women Voters – http://www.smartvoter.org/2011/11/08/pa/state/judicial.html
October 2011. Reprint of November 2007 PCC Column. Hill is Communications Director of the Pennsylvania Catholic Conference – the public affairs arm of Pennsylvania’s Catholic bishops and the Catholic dioceses of Pennsylvania.
