Michigan Supreme Court elections need transparency

A Detroit News Editorial implores state lawmakers to tighten campaign-finance regulations on Michigan Supreme Court elections to improve transparency.

One example of a push for further transparency is a task force set up by Justice Marilyn Kelly meant to uncover failings in the judicial election process.

A different approach has been offered, with some criticism.

Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Weaver published a column presenting a six-point plan calling for the removal of political parties from the judicial nomination process, electing justices by districts and putting term limitations on those elected to the High Court.

There are concerns in removing political parties from the process though. The editorial warns forcing state Supreme Court candidates to run on their own could boost the influence of interest groups. Term limits are unnecessary because voters can simply vote out justices every eight years on General Election ballots and judges must retire at age 70.

Because justices are meant to serve the entire state of Michigan, it is not in the state’s best interests to elect by districts.

It is the opinion of the Detroit News that candidates be allowed to campaign as they see fit, but to simply disclose who is donating to their campaigns.