The ascendancy of a conservative state judiciary (plus Goat Roping in the New Millenium)
The judicial elections in neighboring states fit the pattern of Michigan and the nation: conservative Republican justices have been elected in both Illinois and Ohio, where the bench has been notably liberal for several years.
In Illinois, Justice Rita Garman, appointed last year by Gov. Ryan to replace a retiring Justice, has been elected to a full term, fending off both a primary and a general election challenge.
In Ohio, Lt. Gov. Maureen O'Connor was elected to the Supreme Court, and Justice Evelyn Stratton was re-elected. Both withstood heavy negative political advertising reminiscent of the Michigan Supreme Court race in 2000.
Of interest in Justice Stratton's background:
"[Her] most interesting accomplishment came in 1972, with her first-place finish in the LeTourneau Stampede Girls Goat Tying Competition -- a talent she later put to good use as a trial lawyer."
Perhaps this can be a new legal metaphor for the courtroom: "Goat roping" -- catching and tying elusive witnesses. And this of course brings to mind Bobby Bare's bumper sticker: "Goat ropers need love too".
5:08:21 AM 
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