Reformers want to end judicial elections

Did you know Pennsylvania is one of only six states that elect its judges?

The problem with voting for judges is two-fold. Voters have no idea who they're voting. Picking a judge is not like electing local, county or state politicians. Voters typically vote for name recognition without regard to the person's qualifications.

The second big problem is that by forcing judges to run for office, candidates have to raise enormous amounts of money. Most of that money comes from special interest groups or lawyers who will probably appear before the judge one day.

Is this the best way to encourage an honest and fair legal system? I think you get the picture.

The alternative way of picking judges is known as merit selection.

There's a renewed campaign to bring Pennsylvania in line with the rest of the states.

Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts is behind the push. The non-partisan citizens group has launched a Web site, www.judgesonmerit.org, and is backing legislation that would amend the Pennsylvania Constitution to allow for merit selection of judges.

"Because judges are sworn to make impartial decisions, based strictly on facts and the existing law, we believe that making candidates engage in these political elections to reach the bench is not the best way to get fair and impartial courts staffed by the most qualified judges," the group says on its Web site.

Read more about the group's efforts at its Web site and contact your lawmaker and urge them to support legislation sponsored by Sens. Jane Earll and Anthony Williams and Reps. David Steil and Josh Shapiro.