CANDIDATE FORUM State Supreme Court Candidates Meet With Voters
Reported by: Atish Baidya
Videographer: Tim Rock
Web Producer: Atish Baidya Updated: October 6, 2008 10:53pm
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The three candidates vying for two open seats on the West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals talked to voters during a forum at the South Charleston Community center.
"The opportunity to ask questions especially in their areas of interest is extremely important, " Teresa Lowe said.
Beth Walker is the only Republican out of the three candidates running. She opposes a court that legislates from the bench because she believes it hurts opportunities for the state.
"We create disincentives by liberal activist judges imposing their personal views and creating an unpredictable legal environment," Walker said.
According to the Associated Press, the race is the most expensive state contest this year. Together the candidates have spent more than $500,000 in the four months since the May primary.
Democrat Margaret Workman said she'll bring integrity and balance back to the court.
"The good thing about my candidacy is I have an 18 year track record," Workman said. "No one has to guess about what kind of judge I'll be."
Meanwhile the other Democrat, Menis Ketchum feels the court needs to work harder for everyone.
"The court needs to hear more of our citizens appeals," he said.
But all three candidates agree the court needs to be fair and impartial.
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