Final Answer:
The "Missouri Plan" combines appointment and election in selecting judges through a merit-based process. Initially, a nominating commission composed of lawyers, judges, and citizens screens and nominates potential judicial candidates based on their qualifications. The governor then appoints a judge from this list. After serving for a designated term, the judge's performance is evaluated, and voters decide whether to retain or remove them in a yes/no retention election.
Step-by-step explanation:
The "Missouri Plan" integrates elements of both appointment and election systems to ensure a balanced and merit-driven selection of judges. The process begins with a nominating commission, comprising legal professionals and citizens, which evaluates candidates for judicial positions. This commission recommends a shortlist of qualified individuals to the governor, who subsequently appoints a judge from this pool.
This approach emphasizes merit and expertise in the initial selection. However, to incorporate an electoral element, judges appointed through this method face periodic retention elections. During these elections, voters decide whether to retain or remove the judge based on their performance. This mechanism provides a check on judicial power while maintaining a focus on qualifications and competence.
In essence, the "Missouri Plan" seeks to strike a balance between appointment and election, aiming to appoint judges based on merit while still incorporating the democratic principle of public accountability through periodic retention elections.