TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) — An appeals court is saying Florida Gov. Rick Scott should get to pick a new judge for northeast Florida instead of letting voters decide.
The 1st District Court of Appeal ruled Wednesday against David Trotti. Trotti wanted to run for a circuit judgeship because Judge Donald Moran announced his resignation in March.
Moran wanted to remain on the bench until Jan. 2, 2015. Trotti argued that meant voters in Duval, Clay and Nassau counties should get to pick the next judge. The governor appoints judges if there’s an opening between elections.
The appeals court, by a 2-1 margin, said the governor should get the appointment because the resignation was announced before election qualifying started.
Judge Philip Padovano disagreed and said it would allow judges to manipulate the process.
