2 Ohio justices step down in cases challenging early-voting procedure

[kpete]

2 Ohio justices step down in cases challenging early-voting procedure

Published:Friday, September 26, 2008

COLUMBUS (AP) — Two Ohio Supreme Court justices removed themselves Thursday from cases involving challenges to early-voting procedures, clearing the way for a Democrat to join the all-Republican court making decisions with partisan implications in a hotly contested swing state this presidential election.

Justices Evelyn Lundberg Stratton and Maureen O’Connor stepped down from deciding a challenge to a weeklong period beginning Sept. 30 during which new voters can register to vote and cast an absentee ballot on the same day. The justices also recused themselves from two separate cases in which voters are challenging Democratic Secretary of State Jennifer Brunner’s decision to reject absentee ballot applications administered by the campaign of Republican presidential candidate John McCain because they weren’t filled out properly.

Per normal protocol, the two justices did not provide a reason for stepping aside. But both Republicans are running for re-election on this year’s ballot.

Stratton will be replaced by William Wolff Jr., a Democrat on the Second District Court of Appeals. O’Connor will be replaced by Republican Lynn Slaby of the 9th District Court of Appeals. Both are retiring after completing their current terms.

more at:
http://www.vindy.com/news/2008/sep/26/2-ohio-justices-step-down-in-cases-challenging/

[diva77]

1. How does 1 democrat on a panel of all Republicans suddenly cause the panel

to be impartial?

"Chief Justice Thomas Moyer wanted to ensure that there’s confidence that the decisions are made by an independent and impartial panel, said Ohio Supreme Court spokesman Chris Davey."

[Ellipsis]

2. K&R

One more rec for the greatest please.

[NewYorkerfromMass]

3. Shows why Kerry lost Ohio

the entire state was stacked in Bush's favor under Blackwell- and all the crap they pulled against us.
This time, we're ensured a much more level playing field.