Final answer:
The three methods of selecting state judges are election, appointment, and merit selection. In an election, judges are elected by the public; in an appointment, judges are selected by an authority; and in merit selection, a nominating commission recommends.
Step-by-step explanation:
Methods of Selecting State Judges
Election: In some states, such as Michigan, state judges are elected by the public. The candidates are usually nominated by political parties, but their selection appears on a nonpartisan section of the ballot. Judges serving at different levels, such as state supreme court and appellate courts, are elected for fixed terms.
Appointment: In other states, like Texas, state judges are appointed. The governor or another authority selects the judges, often based on recommendations from judicial nominating commissions or similar bodies. These judges may also serve for fixed terms or until retirement.
Merit Selection: Some states have a hybrid method called merit selection. It combines elements of both election and appointment systems. Initially, a nominating commission screens and evaluates potential candidates, who are then recommended to the governor. The governor chooses a judge from this pool of recommended candidates, who is then subjected to a retention election at regular intervals.
Example:
An example of a state that uses the election method is Michigan, where state judges are elected for fixed terms. On the other hand, Texas uses the appointment method, where state judges are selected by the governor. Another example is the merit selection method, which is used in states like Missouri and Iowa, where a commission recommends candidates to the governor for appointment.
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