Supreme Court Justice Faces Re-Election | Spokane News

Colleen Melody, newly appointed to Washington’s Supreme Court, is now running for re-election — a move sparking debate over whether the state’s judiciary is becoming too politically influenced. With six of nine justices initially appointed by the governor, Melody and fellow appointee Justice Theo Angelis are vying for seats as their terms wind down. Critics, including seasoned attorneys, warn that appointment-heavy courts risk eroding public trust and prioritizing policy over constitutional fidelity. But Melody counters that appointments offer greater accountability than lifetime federal seats, citing her own impartiality and recusals. Voters are being asked to choose not just judges, but the direction of the state’s highest court — as its role grows ever more central to protecting rights and interpreting laws. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/4a55a67a8bd09ca1