In Search of an Independent Judiciary: Alternatives to Judicial Elections in Mississippi

Abstract

In Mississippi, state judges are judged by the electorate through a system of partisan elections. This article challenges whether popular election of judges is best suited to the goal of selecting the most qualified, independent, and responsible judiciary. Along the way, an overview of Mississippi's history with judicial selection will be offered, together with a critical analysis of its current system and a discussion of alternatives.

Keywords: Judicial elections, Mississippi