Nastier, Noisier, Costlier

Our State Bar's President Thomas J. Basting Sr. in his monthly column in Wisconsin Lawyer

As president of the State Bar, I intend to respond to Justice Kennedy's challenge by creating as soon as possible an ad hoc Wisconsin Judicial Campaign Commission for the 2008 Wisconsin Supreme Court campaign. The commission will be composed of five to nine individuals appointed to three-year staggered terms, with a majority of the members being nonlawyers. I envision that this commission will: 1) educate the public about the unique role and responsibilities of judges; 2) actively and publicly seek signed pledges from the candidates in which they will agree to adhere to the Wisconsin Code of Judicial Conduct (the pledge will be a contract between the candidate and the citizens of the state of Wisconsin); and 3) review print and electronic media campaign advertising, position papers, press releases, statements, and other materials that attempt to influence judicial election voters. The commission will issue findings regarding compliance with the requirements of the Code of Judicial Conduct and the candidates' pledge.