A state Senate committee will begin scrutinizing the governor’s choice to fill a vacancy on the Kansas Court of Appeals this week. Governor Sam Brownback has selected Topeka attorney Kathryn Gardner to fill the seat.
Senators will hear from any supporters and opponents of Gardner’s nomination and ask her questions.
When he unveiled his choice, Brownback touted Gardner’s qualifications for the job.
“Kathryn Gardner possesses the qualities important to a jurist. She’s thoughtful, dedicated to the rule of law, intelligent and she understands the importance of judicial demeanor,” says Brownback.
Gardner has worked for U.S. District Judge Sam Crow since 2000.
If confirmed by the Kansas Senate, she would replace Caleb Stegall on the Court of Appeals. Brownback appointed Stegall to the Kansas Supreme Court after first appointing him to the appellate court.
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A Kansas Senate committee will hold a hearing Wednesday to study the governor’s choice to fill a vacancy on the Kansas Court of Appeals. Governor Sam Brownback has picked Topeka attorney Kathryn Gardner to fill the open seat. KPR’s Stephen Koranda reports.
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During the hearing, senators will hear from any supporters and opponents of Gardner’s nomination. Then, senators will have a chance to pepper Gardner with questions about her experience and qualifications.
When Brownback announced that Gardner would be his pick, he said she meets the standards Kansans set for judges.
"Kansans want judges who possess a keen intellect, strength of character, integrity and respect for the rule of law. Kansans want judges who reflect and respect the values of our great state," says Brownback.
Gardner has been a practicing attorney and for 15 years has worked for U.S. District Judge Sam Crow.
If confirmed by the Kansas Senate, Gardner would replace Caleb Stegall. Brownback previously appointed Stegall to the Court of Appeals, and later appointed him to the Kansas Supreme Court.