Jun 08 2010
Press conference to bring support from three branches, both sides of the aisle
In today’s political climate one may be hard-pressed to name many issues that truly unite both sides of the aisle. Merit selection is one of these rare birds. PMC has long been part of a coalition of diverse business, legal, community, civic, and religious groups, as well as individuals, that support changing the way Pennsylvanians select their state appellate bench from judicial elections to merit selection. Now, a new poll conducted for PMC shows that support is even broader across the state and does not hew to traditional party lines.
Need further persuasion? Take a look at the guest lineup for tomorrow’s press conference—a bipartisan coterie of players from all the branches of government:
The Governors: Governor Ed Rendell (D), a long-time proponent of merit, will be speaking, as well as former Governor Mark Schweiker (R). Former Governors Tom Ridge (R) and Dick Thornburgh (R) will be available via conference call.
The Legislators: Senator Jane Earll (R-Erie) and Representative Matt Smith (D-Allegheny), sponsors of the merit bills in their respective houses will be in attendance to promote the proposal.
The Judiciary: While unable to attend in person, retired United Stated Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor has issued a statement applauding Pennsylvania for taking the necessary steps towards adopting merit selection for the state.
The Watchdogs: Lynn Marks, executive director of PMC and PMCAction will explain why merit is such a crucial judicial reform. Representatives from our national partners Justice at Stake and the Committee for Economic Development will also be on hand to answer any questions about the poll.
The Coalition: Also showing their support will be representatives from the Pennsylvania Bar Association, Common Cause, ACLU of Pennsylvania, Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, Philadelphia Council of Clergy, Pennsylvania Manufacturers Association, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Pennsylvania, and the League of Women Voters.
An issue with such unique backing deserves equally unique consideration by the citizens of this commonwealth. Pennsylvanians have already voiced their views on merit via the poll; now they must be allowed to do so at the ballot box.
For more information on tomorrow’s press conference, see our media advisory here.
Entries RSS
[...] Judges On Merit: Press conference to bring support from three branches, both sides of the aisle Susa… [...]