Chicago Election -- Retaining Judges
One of the most complicated things (I think) about voting in Chicago (and probably in Illinois) is dealing with the retention of judges. It's part of our voting process here. One of the things I will be taking with me this morning to the polls is The Chicago Council of Lawyers Judge Evaluations (you can find the full report here and the short version to take to the polls here).
While the presidential election is definitely important, this judicial retention vote should be taken seriously, too. Judges need to receive 60% of the vote to be retained. And there are some people who definitely don't deserve to be retained (Like Dorothy Jones, who impeded the adoption process for two same-sex couples because she doesn't believe in adoption for same-sex couples, and it is perfectly legal in Illinois for same sex couples to adopt.)
The Chicago Bar Association also has a recommendation list. You can find it here
Great post Theresa! And thank you for the helpful link. this is my first time voting living in Chicago (we moved here 2 1/2 years ago) and I'd never voted for or against the retention of judges before. Interesting.
The one time I voted in Chicago, I did an ungodly bad job with the judge retentions. The list was so massive, and I'm pretty sure my eyes glazed over eventually.
Of course, I didn't do a great job with the DuPage ones either, and I have even less excuse, because the list was so much smaller.
You go, Girl. Talk about breaking through barriers! Not only did you make that post yesterday, but today you've gone out on a limb again. It's refreshing, like a cool drink of water after my yoga class.
Thank you so much for posting links to these lists. This is the hardest part of voting in Chicago, yet has the potential to really impact people's lives. Thanks!
Thanks for this - so very important. Keep in mind, as well, that Federal District Court Judges, Court of Appeals Judges for all Circuits, and Supreme Court Justices are all appointed by the President and they are appointed for life.
The ones selected will be there a looooong time.
Interesting. In Washington state where I live we elect most judges - this time we have an open seat on the state supreme court (no incumbent) so it is pretty important and no one knows how it may turn out. I am hoping that the good woman candidate gets elected! (We have more women than men on our supreme court)
By the way - I love the small partitioned bag I made from your pattern. I added a loop and small button to keep the flap in place. My cell phone slips in to one side easily. I made it with leftover yarn from a felt hat I made for myself - so they coordinate well.
One of the reasons it took so long for me to vote this morning is that all our judges were over 75. They can' hear, can't see...but they are such dears to do it. Maybe it's time to volunteer!