(Host) The state’s Judicial Nominating Board has voted to reopen its search to fill a vacancy on the Vermont Supreme Court. The Board had sent a list of six candidates to Governor Jim Douglas for his consideration. But Douglas requested a new list because he felt that the Board had screened out a number of qualified candidates.
Board chairwoman Peg Flory says the Board won’t reconsider any of the applicants that were not among the original finalists. But the six people sent to the governor will remain as active candidates for the next round. Flory thinks it makes sense to accept new applications for this vacancy:
(Flory) “I think this time perhaps it has shown people that the governor didn’t have anyone in mind, that it truly is a fair process and that everyone will be given due consideration. So it might encourage additional people to apply so that the governor then has the broadest range possible.”
(Host) Flory hopes that the Board will be able to present the governor with a new list of candidates by the end of the summer.