Kansas voters to decide on Supreme Court Selection Amendment in August Primary

KANSAS (KQTV) -- Kansas voters looking to make their voices heard during the August Primary Election will see a big question about how Kansas Supreme Court justices are appointed.

Currently, Kansas Supreme Court justices are chosen through a nominating commission that selects three finalists, with the Governor then choosing one from that group.

The amendment would rewrite the system entirely.

Instead, voters would elect Supreme Court justices directly in regular elections, similar to how they vote for the Governor or Congress members.

Supporters of the amendment say it gives voters more power and holds judges accountable.

Republicans across the state are leading the push for this change, arguing that the current system shuts out everyday Kansans and gives too much power to a small group of lawyers.

Democrats are strongly opposed.

They argue this amendment could turn judges into politicians who have to raise millions from special interests.

They also see it as a backdoor attempt to restrict abortion, following Kansas voters' decision in 2022 to keep abortion legal.

A "yes" vote means judges would be elected directly by voters.

A "no" vote maintains the current system.

Those votes will be cast on the Aug. 4 Primary Election.