Letter to the editor: State Constitution guarantees judicial elections

Thanks to Carol Turnbull for pointing out that many of the judges on the Minnesota Supreme Court and other judicial offices have been appointed by various governors. What was left out was that the Minnesota Constitution guarantees the voters of this state should elect their judges. 

The other thing she forgot to mention is those appointed judges then have the title “incumbent” listed after their name on the ballot. What do you think when you see those judges’ names on the ballot? Many are unopposed, unfortunately, but don’t you tend to assume that because they are incumbent that they received the stamp of approval by the voters? Just the fact that an open judicial seat in this district drew 24 candidates two years ago, shows the importance of an open and fair election, one that doesn’t give the incumbent an advantage.

Furthermore, Carol, you might want to consult that Bible when you criticize judicial candidates like Tim Tinglestad. Just think about what our laws are based on. Don’t you know it goes back to the ancient law of the 10 commandments - Thou shalt not kill, steal, covet, etc., that are in the Bible?

Two years ago Tim Tinglestad and Dan Griffith were Republican-endorsed judicial candidates and if you look at their websites or listen to their statements, then you will know that they would not be “activist” judges but ones who will uphold the laws that are in our Constitution. Then when you go to the voting booth, you will be informed about the judicial candidates you choose - after all don’t you want to make an informed choice?

Please consider voting for Tinglestad and Griffith on Nov. 6.

Linda Stanton - Woodbury

Tags: letters to the editor, elections, opinion, updates