I write to commend the Tribune’s recent coverage of Illinois judges (“Judge’s conduct deserves stiff verdict from citizens,” John Kass, Nov. 1; “Winning ugly, Unlocking judicial loopholes of the highest order,” Bruce Dold, Commentary, Nov. 5; “New judge has record of jury bias, 2 cases reversed while prosecutor,” Page 1, Nov. 5, by Ken Armstrong and Maurice Possley). We can only hope, as voters, that such coverage continues when it is needed most–in the months leading up to next year’s elections. For if we are to elect our judges wisely and knowledgeably, the press must pay judicial races sustained attention.
In past years, judicial races were faint blips on the media radar screen, while legislative and statewide campaigns dominated the headlines. In the year 2000, with four Supreme Court seats potentially vacant, and scores of appellate and trial judgeships up for election or retention in the metropolitan area, the public must learn more about the individual candidates beyond the stock rounds of endorsements.
Paradoxically we get to know so much about our gubernatorial and Senate candidates, even though it is unlikely that we will ever actually encounter them. But anyone who has ever defended a speeding ticket, probated a will or suffered through a divorce looks eyeball to eyeball with the state’s judicial branch. The press must pay continued regard to these important posts.
