A proposed constitutional amendment that passed the Kansas House Wednesday would allow voters, rather than left-wing lawyers, to select the state’s seven Supreme Court justices.
“Kansans are one step closer to reclaiming their voice in their state judicial system,” House Republican leaders touted in a statement after the 84-40 vote.
The proposed amendment, which would still have to be approved by voters in August 2026, passed the Senate 27-13 on March 6. The vote totals met the two-thirds majority requirement for a constitutional amendment in each chamber.
Under current state law a nine-member Nominating Commission dominated by lawyers goes through applications and interviews and chooses three nominees from which the governor must select.
Similar systems around the country have been derided for the left-wing bias of lawyers and their nominees, meaning judges and justices are often far out of step with the sensibilities of voters.
Indeed, although such a system is often called the Missouri Plan, that state’s lawmakers, too, have considered doing away with it for many judicial picks.
The Kansas amendment would provide for electing justices to six-year terms in staggered elections starting in 2028.
“If passed by the voters,” House leaders write, “this constitutional amendment would replace the outdated, insider system of appointing Supreme Court justices with the democratic process of direct elections by the people.
“By eliminating the insular Supreme Court Nominating Commission, SCR 1611 ensures a more transparent and democratic process, giving Kansans a voice. …
“As we’ve traveled across Kansas listening to our communities, Kansans have told us they want to know more about who serves on Kansas’ highest court – a Supreme Court chosen by them, not handed down by an outdated, insider commission.
“SCR 1611 delivers just that, ending Kansas’ days as the only state with this system. This is the people’s victory, and we’re proud to stand with them as they reclaim their voice at the ballot box.”
Four Republicans voted with Democrats against the amendment, according to the Kansas Reflector: Rep. Jesse Borjon of Topeka, Rep. Angel Roeser of Manhattan, Rep. Mark Schreiber of Emporia, and Rep. Sean Willcott of Holton.
