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Candidates for Governor
Four-year term, with no more than two terms in succession. Must be at least 30 years old, a United States citizen and must have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years continuously preceding election. The Governor shares the responsibility of administering the state with other elected officials, represents the state nationally and internationally, signs or vetoes statutes enacted by the legislature, and appoints members of boards and commissions.
John Dendahl (Republican)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
Reverse endemic corruption. Use my proven skill to select and lead people who recognize and reject conflicts of interest, self-dealing and other dishonorable conduct. Other states' laws may produce useful models for statutory change(s).
High-quality K-12 education. Obtain revision of unworkable NCLB requirements or reject federal funds. Use NM success stories (teachers, schools, districts) as models. Emphasize local autonomy and support school choice.
- To reduce the potential for corruption and the influence of special interests, what changes to campaign finance and lobbying laws do you support? What kinds of changes would you oppose?
I support weekly Internet reporting of campaign receipts, beginning at $5,000 per election, and improved disclosure of donors' interests. I oppose public campaign financing and size limits on donations and expenditures.
- What should be the role of New Mexico state government in addressing the presence of undocumented migrants in the state?
To the maximum constitutional extent, deny all public-funded benefits; demand availability, and use by employers at times of hire, of reliable federal information database(s); require scrupulous care that state agencies not employ illegals; reverse any action(s) by incumbent governor that encourage and/or facilitate illegal residence; seek reasonable temporary worker status, but only after borders have been made secure.
- Water quality and quantity are critical issues facing the state of New Mexico. What do you propose to do about these issues?
Support informing citizens to make each a wise user; protect established legal rights against wrongful takings by governmental entities; encourage better use of free markets to allocate water among various uses; support needed revision of, particularly, the Endangered Species Act as informed by the many unintended consequences of its 35 years; employ expert resources like NMSU's Water Resources Research Institute.
Bill Richardson (Democrat)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
Education is my number one priority. I will continue to set high standards for students and teachers, invest in modernizing classrooms, and provide pre-k for every four-year old. A strong economy is also a priority. I've worked hard to create good-paying jobs, cut taxes for every citizen, including the taxes on food and medical services, while balancing the budget and growing our rainy. . . . . .
- To reduce the potential for corruption and the influence of special interests, what changes to campaign finance and lobbying laws do you support? What kinds of changes would you oppose?
Our reform package to make New Mexico's campaign disclosure law one of the toughest in the nation was not passed by the Legislature. My Ethics and Campaign Finance Reform task force is working on strengthening ethics laws, increasing accountability for campaign contributions, prohibiting or restricting gifts to elected officials and toughening oversight of the State Treasurer's Office.
- What should be the role of New Mexico state government in addressing the presence of undocumented migrants in the state?
While securing the border is a federal issue, we have provided funds and support for border enforcement. We must deal fairly with those who are paying taxes, learning English, and contributing to our society, and create a path to legalization for them. Additionally, we must engage Mexico and strengthen its border economy, while curbing demand for illegal labor by penalizing employers who violate the law.
- Water quality and quantity are critical issues facing the state of New Mexico. What do you propose to do about these issues?
Developing, managing, and conserving our precious supplies of water is a top priority. I created a state-wide water plan and created a Drought Task Force. I have focused federal and state funding on urgently needed water projects in communities throughout New Mexico. I have also supported and signed into law legislation to improve the state's control over water use, recovery, and conservation efforts.
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Candidates for Lieutenant Governor
Four-year term with no more than two terms in succession. In the general election, the Governor and Lieutenant Governor are voted on as a slate. The Lieutenant Governor must be at least 30 years old, a United States citizen, and have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years preceding election. The Lieutenant Governor acts as Governor when the Governor is absent from the state and if, for any reason, the Governor is unable to perform his or her duties. Among other duties are serving as the liaison between the people and state agencies, referring citizen complaints and problems to appropriate agencies, and reporting to the Governor. The Lieutenant Governor presides over the Senate and can vote in the event of a tie.
Sue Wilson Beffort (Republican)
- The Governor usually assigns specific tasks to the Lieutenant Governor. To which areas of government would you like to be assigned and why?
The childcare industry takes care of our precious children. We must upgrade the provider ability to deliver the highest possible services, by implementing programs to achieve formal training in "early childhood guidance". Competitive salaries and insurance benefits are keys to attracting quality professionals.
Healthcare access and reducing the uncompensated care needs to be addressed in a method that assures stable coverage for those already in the system, while creating a statewide network for uninsured. The Legislature has enacted reforms for. . . . . .
- What are your two top priorities for improving education in New Mexico, and how would you work to accomplish them?
Return the many vocational and extra curricular programs to the system, with an emphasis on middle schools. This will significantly help the drop out rates, teenage pregnancies, discipline problems, youth obesity, diabetes, and gangs.
Math, science and reading skills are at the root of successful learning. Specialized training for innovative teaching techniques can be provided at the college level, so that our new teachers have the tools necessary to reach ALL children, grades K-16. Best practices in these courses must . . . . . .
Diane D. Denish (Democrat)
- The Governor usually assigns specific tasks to the Lieutenant Governor. To which areas of government would you like to be assigned and why?
I have taken on the challenges of increasing access to health care, expanding early-learning opportunities for children, increasing home ownership and creating jobs in the small-business sector by championing expanded microlending programs. I have tackled tough methamphetamine problems by backing laws that now restrict access to meth ingredients and protect children who live in meth labs. I expect to broaden my responsibilities on water infrastructure, conservation, renewable energy issues; and broadening our state's technology-applications base.
- What are your two top priorities for improving education in New Mexico, and how would you work to accomplish them?
Improving education is key to the prosperity of New Mexico. I will continue to fight for expanded early-learning opportunities like Pre-K. They are vital to closing the achievement gap so kids enter later grades prepared to learn. My vision is to create a seamless, responsive educational continuum from Pre-K through college to prepare students for the demands of the workforce. I would increase investments in dropout prevention and Adult Basic Education programs to improve the skills of our current . . . . .
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Candidates for Secretary of State
Four-year term with no more than two terms in succession. Must be at least 30 years old, a citizen of the United States, and must have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years immediately preceding election. The Secretary of State is second in line of succession after the Governor and the Lieutenant Governor. The Secretary of State attests and affixes the Great Seal of the state of New Mexico to official documents, maintains the state repository of signed legislation and required filings, is the chief election officer, and generally supervises statewide elections. The Secretary of State is responsible for the registration of lobbyists, trade names, trademarks, and notary public commissions.
Mary Herrera (Democrat)
- What improvements would you like to make in the operations of the office of the Secretary of State?
Work with the State Legislature to review and update New Mexico election laws, rules and procedures. Improve standards in training and education for all County Clerks, their staff and the "Help America Vote Act" as well as our own in-state initiatives. Work diligently to expand and improve the ongoing Native American Voting Rights Program. Establish regulations for paper ballots and unify Voter ID regulations.
- What role can the Secretary of State play in increasing voter turnout, and would you support election-day registration?
I support Election Day registration if it increases voter turnout. It is imperative that all voters feel comfortable with the new paper ballot system, and they feel confident that their vote is counted. Continue to evaluate concerns for early voting sites. Election Day polling places, and absentee voting. I also pledge to improve the election process by setting up additional outreach programs to educate the . . . . . .
- How will you ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the electoral process and conduct the post-election audit?
The election code currently sets out a process that provides a well documented audit process. I have several years of financial experience, accounting/auditing/budget, etc. I would assure that all County Clerks and their staff are trained to conduct audits to ensure accuracy and efficiency of the electoral process. I would also pledge that all equipment is pre-tested and certified before an election.
- What changes, if any, would you support in campaign finance reporting?
I support campaign finance reporting. It is important that the public has access to campaign finance reporting, and be informed of fall disclosure.
Vickie S. Perea (Republican)
- What improvements would you like to make in the operations of the office of the Secretary of State?
New Mexico elections have been plagued by problems, mishaps, and fraud. Requiring voters to show photo identification is the first step to securing our election process; it is a measure supported overwhelmingly by good people from all parties, and it is long overdue. Election returns should also be provided more quickly, and I have the administrative and legislative experience to accomplish these goals.
- What role can the Secretary of State play in increasing voter turnout, and would you support election-day registration?
Increasing turnout begins with educating young people on the importance of our democracy; I will work with the legislature to require more civics education in school, and I will create outreach programs to encourage participation. Electing honest officials in should also increase voter confidence and turnout. Election-day registration shouldnÕt be considered until elections are securely and expediently managed with the technology we currently possess.
- How will you ensure the accuracy and efficiency of the electoral process and conduct the post-election audit?
All post-election activity, including the audit, will be conducted openly, with citizens having the opportunity to examine the process for accuracy; this hasnÕt always been allowed. As Secretary of State, I will provide county clerks with the resources necessary to conduct elections in their counties with excellence. As a former university president, city councilor, and administrator, I can provide adequate training and require accountability.
- What changes, if any, would you support in campaign finance reporting?
Recent corruption scandals show us the importance of monitoring the money that flows through our government. I will institute New MexicoÕs first searchable contribution database so that citizens or the media will be able to see a listing of all contributions to candidates or office holders at all times. This is long overdue and vitally important to ensuring that government is continually open and accountable.
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Candidates for Attorney General
Four-year term with no more than two terms in succession. Must be at least 30 years old, a citizen of the United States, and must have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years immediately preceding election. Must also be a licensed attorney of the Supreme Court of New Mexico in good standing. The Attorney General gives legal opinions as requested by public officials, represents the state in cases in which the state is a party and, in criminal appeals, gives legal advice to public officials, and represents the public interest — for example, in consumer protection.
Jim Bibb (Republican)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
No more excuses for the AG not "getting it done" in prosecuting criminals, including corrupt government officials. Need a Rudy Guiliani approach, where every crime is aggressively addressed. As AG, I recognize that my job is the state's top law enforcement officer. Institute my Educate New Mexico Initiative — Focus on ending the cycle of domestic violence, curbing meth use and trafficking, and reducing DWI.
- What further actions should the Attorney General take to protect New Mexico citizens from identification theft and consumer fraud?
Continue to educate the public through my ENM Initiative. Work with federal law enforcement to identify scams before they come here. Work with our partners in the business community to identify predatory or illegal practices within certain industries. Business leaders and their knowledge are key components to stamping out consumer fraud. Prosecute criminals aggressively.
- With the increased exposure of unethical behavior in government, what would you propose to make public officials more accountable to the general public?
Prosecute all crimes regardless of their size and scope. Let the public know that New Mexico is no longer a "pay to play" state. Institute the Division of Public Corruption within the AG's office, where prosecutors work full-time corruption. Treat federal prosecutors as partners instead of opponents and don't undermine their investigations. Elect an AG who has experience in crime fighting and prosecuting.
Gary K. King (Democrat)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
My top priorities are protection of our citizens who are most vulnerable, such as victims of domestic violence and sexual predators. I propose to require paroled sex offenders to wear GPS bracelets, removal of the statute of limitations on violent sex crimes and creation of a special unit to identify and attack scam artists. I will also continue my fight against illicit drug labs.
- What further actions should the Attorney General take to protect New Mexico citizens from identification theft and consumer fraud?
I will assign attorneys in the office to focus on ID theft and scams. We will search out scams and improve reporting through a statewide hotline and a site on the AG webpage, and provide up to date information to citizens through the media and internet. I propose to create an ombudsman to help victims through the necessary steps to reclaim their good name.
- With the increased exposure of unethical behavior in government, what would you propose to make public officials more accountable to the general public?
I will create a special unit within the office to identify and prosecute public corruption. I will continue to advocate for ethics reform, such as a limitation on gifts and contributions from regulated entities and public campaign financing. As AG, I will advise and direct public officials regarding our laws and ethics regulations to prevent the officials from violating them in the first place.
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Candidates for Commissioner for Public Lands
Four-year term with no more than two terms in succession. Must be at least 30 years of age, a United States citizen, and have resided five years continuously in New Mexico preceding election. The Commissioner of Public Lands takes control, has jurisdiction, and care and custody of all trust lands. He/she administers state trust land to generate the highest possible level of sustainable revenue for New Mexico's public schools, public institutions of higher learning, and other public institutions.
Jim Baca (Democrat)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
Decisions must be made with integrity and the goal of preserving state land while promoting its best use for the sportsmen and citizens who enjoy it, and agriculture and energy industries that make a living from it. I support a constitutional amendment allowing permanent protection of land, grants of land to schools and local governments, and establishment of a board to approve permanent land transfers.
- The State Land Office manages approximately 9 million acres of land and 13 million oil, gas and mineral acres in support of public schools, universities, hospitals, charitable purposes and penitentiaries. How would you balance the need to generate revenue from this land with the concerns of leaseholders and the need to protect natural resources?
It's a balance, but if there is first priority, it's our children's future. My opponent instead has a clear affection for the oil and gas industry and poorly thought-out development. The land office must support sensible oil and gas practices, protect surface resources and assure land can be acceptably restored. We must institute alternative energy development because New Mexico has tremendous potential.
- How do you propose to prevent degradation of water quality and wildlife habitat on state trust lands?
Sustainable clean water supplies, advanced watershed improvements and environmental protection can be accomplished by considering short and long-term impacts when decisions are made. Good decisions are made with good information. Money should be spent on field activities and experts on efficient reforestation, riparian protection and wildlife repopulation. Sensible growth and coordinated community planning are key to protecting our Land of Enchantment.
Patrick H. Lyons (Republican)
- If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them?
We must diversify the Land Office's portfolio and identify new resources to generate the revenue needed to finance public education. For example, I am the first commissioner to produce renewable energy on trust lands and I am claiming water rights on trust lands to boost the trust's assets and value. Another priority is to continue reinvesting a portion of earnings to develop innovative conservation programs.
- The State Land Office manages approximately 9 million acres of land and 13 million oil, gas and mineral acres in support of public schools, universities, hospitals, charitable purposes and penitentiaries. How would you balance the need to generate revenue from this land with the concerns of leaseholders and the need to protect natural resources?
During my tenure I have allocated $5 million to land management programs to preserve the trust's natural resources and maintain their viability. I have implemented range, forest and riparian restoration programs, improved wildlife habitat, cleaned-up illegal dump sites, and stabilized cultural treasures. In partnership with agricultural lessees, the Land Office is encouraging range management actions that benefit both native species and livestock.
- How do you propose to prevent degradation of water quality and wildlife habitat on state trust lands?
The SLO partners with a number of agencies to protect the trust's riparian assets. One such effort is to thin dense woodlands and non-native species along river banks to recharge the water table. To augment existing programs, I created the Candidate Species Conservation Program to improve habitat for at-risk species experiencing declining populations, and the Rangeland Ecological Service Program, which promotes natural resource conservation.
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Candidates for State Treasurer
Four-year term, with no more than two terms in succession. Must be at least 30 years old, a citizen of the United States and must have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years immediately preceding election. The Treasurer receives, pays out, and accounts for receipts and expenditures of all state monies, and invests the balances. Among other duties are reports to the State Auditor, the Legislature, and the State Board of Finance.
James B. Lewis (Democrat)
- The New Mexico State Treasurer is entrusted with investing approximately four (4) billon dollars of the State's short-term funds. What specific experience do you have that qualifies you to perform and control this function?
The following experience qualifies me to invest and control the State's short-term funds. I was appointed/elected State Treasurer (1985/1986). I was elected two terms as Bernalillo County Treasurer. Additionally, I served on the following boards: State Investment Council, Public Employees Retirement Association, the Education Retirement Association (multi-billion dollar responsibilities). I am a professionally trained and experienced Public Administrator with proven integrity.
- Some former State Treasurers and their staff have been the subject of criminal investigations. What actions would you take to provide greater oversight and controls to prevent unethical and illegal behavior?
As State Treasurer, I will implement a strong Code of Conduct with appropriate consequences when violated; a whistleblower program; and, required ethics training for all employees to attend. I will lead by example; work to establish internal/external accounting procedures; make sure internal/external audit findings are implemented; and, along with the League of Women Voters, encourage/educate voters to elect competent candidates to office.
Demesia Padilla (Republican)
- The New Mexico State Treasurer is entrusted with investing approximately four (4) billon dollars of the State's short-term funds. What specific experience do you have that qualifies you to perform and control this function?
My 20 years as a Certified Public Accountant working with a variety of individuals and organizations to assist them in money management, asset protection, and organizational planning, qualifies me to be an effective and efficient state treasurer. In my capacity as a CPA I have worked with financial institutions addressing cash flow needs and investment performance.
- Some former State Treasurers and their staff have been the subject of criminal investigations. What actions would you take to provide greater oversight and controls to prevent unethical and illegal behavior?
I will implement corrective procedures on all audit findings and follow-up to address their effectiveness. As the State Treasurer I will set high ethical standards and will expect my staff to follow the same. All employees in the State Treasurer's office will be informed that any deviations from the ethical practices will be dealt with quickly and with consequences.
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Candidates for State Auditor
Four-year term. Must be at least 30 years old, must be a citizen of the United States, must have resided continuously in New Mexico for five years immediately preceding election. The Auditor conducts and oversees audits of the activities of state government officials and entities receiving money from state tax revenue.
Hector Balderas (Democrat)
- What experience and education do you believe the State Auditor needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
I am independent, I have integrity and I will protect NM Taxpayers. Now more than ever, the Auditor's Office must go beyond the basics of two plus two equals four. I have investigated and prosecuted fraud and white collar crimes. I have advised governmental clients on contractual best practices and proper procurement law. As a State Representative, I assisted over 33 communities with budget analysis . . . . . .
- What present policies and procedures of the State Auditor's office would you change?
My Taxpayer Protection Initiative (TPI) would improve government accountability by investigating fraud and illegal acts affecting government resources. Through the TPI, the Auditor's Office will assist in the prosecution of cases related to the improper use of public funds which is not currently being done. I will work with the Legislature to create a special prosecutors office to prosecute cases referred by the Auditor's Office.
- Do you believe that candidates for this office should solicit or receive contributions from firms that may be approved by the State Auditor to perform audits? Why or why not?
No. The State Auditor must be independent, have integrity and focus solely on protecting the taxpayers of New Mexico. My judgment would not be swayed by a political contribution, but in order to ensure the public trust and that there is no question of my integrity I will not solicit or accept such contributions.
Lorenzo Garcia (Republican)
- What experience and education do you believe the State Auditor needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
The state auditor should have a degree in accounting or finance from an accredited university and at least fifteen years experience in auditing, financial investigations and financial management. I have a degree in accounting and I am a CPA. My 30-year career includes having been a bank examiner, auditor, white-collar crime and government corruption investigator, and chief financial officer of a state agency.
- What present policies and procedures of the State Auditor's office would you change?
In the area of government entity audits, the Current State Auditor has done a good job. I would not propose any major changes. With regard to fraud, however, I would propose a joint effort by the Governor, the State Auditor, the Attorney General, and other local and state investigative and prosecutorial entities to improve on current practices of reporting, investigating and prosecuting public financial crimes.
- Do you believe that candidates for this office should solicit or receive contributions from firms that may be approved by the State Auditor to perform audits? Why or why not?
In order to prevent the appearance of possible collusion, I would not object to an outright prohibition of contributions from independent public accountants that audit state entities. However, because these accountants have a professional interest in selecting the best person to represent their profession, allowing them to contribute with a reasonable cap on the contribution amount would be an acceptable alternative.
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RETENTION ELECTIONS FOR JUDICIAL OFFICES
Voters at a retention election may vote either "yes" or "no" for each individual judge running for retention. To retain the office, a judge must receive 57% "yes" votes of all the votes cast on the question of retention.
Candidate for Justice of the Supreme Court
Newly elected justices must be at least 35 years of age, a practicing attorney for at least ten years and a resident of New Mexico for at least three years immediately preceding the assumption of office.
The Supreme Court is the administrative head of the New Mexico judicial branch of government. In addition, the Supreme Court, the state "court of last resort," has jurisdiction over: civil cases where jurisdiction is not specifically vested in the state Court of Appeals; appeals from criminal cases imposing the death penalty or life imprisonment; appeals from decisions of the N.M. Public Regulation Commission, appeals from state Court of Appeals decisions, review of state Court of Appeals decisions; and cases certified to it by the state Court of Appeals or any federal court.
Edward L. Chavez (Retention)
- What experience and education do you believe a Supreme Court Justice needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
The constitution requires a Juris Doctorate and at least 10 years of actual legal practice. I have been an attorney since 1981. I have served on the Supreme Court since 2003 after being unanimously recommended by a bipartisan committee of judges, lawyers and laypeople. I received consistently high ratings from the Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission which has recommended my retention.
- What improvements are needed in the Supreme Court? How would you as a Supreme Court Justice address these needs?
The Supreme Court Commission on Access to Justice reports that less than 20% of the legal needs of low income New Mexicans are being met. These legal needs center around family issues - housing, health care, consumer problems, and representation of domestic violence victims. We must support adequate funding of civil legal services so that all New Mexicans have access to our system of justice.
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Candidates for Judge of the Court of Appeals
Court of Appeals judges sit in panels of three judges to decide cases. There are ten judges of the Court of Appeals who are elected statewide for eight-year terms. A newly elected judge must be at least 35 years of age, have been engaged in the actual practice of law for at least ten years, and a resident of New Mexico for at least three years immediately preceding the assumption of office.
The Court of Appeals is a court of statewide appellate jurisdiction. As the intermediate appellate court between the district courts and the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals hears most appeals from district courts and administrative agencies, including criminal cases, civil cases, tax cases, and other administrative cases.
Cynthia A. Fry (Retention)
- What experience and education do you believe a Court of Appeals Judge needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
The New Mexico Constitution requires minimum qualifications for a Court of Appeals Judge, but additional qualifications are helpful. I think a judge should have experience in many areas of law. Before becoming a judge, I was a trial and appellate lawyer for nineteen years, during which time I practiced in the areas of negligence, insurance, workers' compensation, contracts, property, family law, and criminal law.
- What improvements are needed in the Court of Appeals? How would you as a Court of Appeals Judge address these needs?
The Court is always trying to improve the timeliness of its decisions, but making fair decisions is as important as making prompt decisions. I am working hard to do my part to reduce the time it takes us to understand and decide the cases before us and to make sure that our decisions are fair to everyone in each case.
Lynn Pickard (Retention)
- What experience and education do you believe a Court of Appeals Judge needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
According to the New Mexico Constitution, a Court of Appeals judge needs a law degree and 10 years of experience in the practice of law. I received my law degree from Northeastern University School of Law in 1974 and have practiced law in New Mexico for the 32 years since then. I have been a Court of Appeals judge since 1991.
- What improvements are needed in the Court of Appeals? How would you as a Court of Appeals Judge address these needs?
As in all courts, litigation in the Court of Appeals can be too time consuming and expensive. In my 26 years with the Court of Appeals as a judge, chief staff attorney, and law clerk, I have suggested and implemented various innovative ways of lessening the delay and expense involved while still doing justice. I will continue to do the same if retained.
Jim Wechsler (Retention)
- What experience and education do you believe a Court of Appeals Judge needs? What are your qualifications in these areas?
Judges need to be fair, work hard, have legal knowledge, and work well with others. The Judicial Performance Evaluation Commission, the independent, bi-partisan commission that evaluates judges, states that my "strengths include legal competence, fairness, demeanor, and communication skills" and that I am "a hard worker." The Commission also noted that I am "well respected and appreciated by those who appear before" me.
- What improvements are needed in the Court of Appeals? How would you as a Court of Appeals Judge address these needs?
The Court of Appeals reviews cases on appeal from the district courts and administrative agencies. People are waiting for our rulings, and the Court should continue to improve its ability to decide appeals quickly. I am committed to this goal, and I believe the Court can best achieve it through hard work.
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