It’s time to change the way Oklahoma selects Supreme Court justices
Articles & Media
A project of the Oklahoma Council of Public Affairs
Right now, Oklahoma uses a system designed by lawyers to choose our most important judges. No wonder those judges often do what the lawyers want (even if that’s not what the people of Oklahoma want)—such as allowing mask mandates, striking down pro-life laws, and gutting lawsuit reform. The current system is by lawyers, for lawyers. We need to replace it with a system that provides transparency and accountability—a way of choosing judges that serves the people, not just the lawyers.
It’s time to amend the Oklahoma Constitution to eliminate the Judicial Nominating Commission (JNC) and replace it with the U.S. Constitution’s process of selecting Supreme Court justices—the Governor appoints, and the Legislature confirms or rejects. The Oklahoma Legislature must pass SJR 34 or similar legislation to send a proposed constitutional amendment to a vote of the people.
“Oklahoma needs a judicial-selection plan for the people (not the lawyers)”
By Benjamin Lepak
“Real independence and accountability for Oklahoma judges”
By Trent England
“Current abortion debate shows the need for JNC repeal”
By Ryan Haynie
“Democrat praises Oklahoma Supreme Court’s abortion activism”
By Ray Carter
“First principles dictate robust judicial reform in Oklahoma”
By Ryan Haynie
Take Action
Contact your state legislators and ask them to pass SJR 34 or similar legislation to send a proposed constitutional amendment to a vote of the people.
“Senator ‘outraged’ by Dobbs wants to stop Oklahoma judicial reform”
By Trent England
“Has the JNC process been scandal-free? No.”
By Ryan Haynie
Now is the time
Contact your state legislators and ask them to pass SJR 34!