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Editorial: Wallace Jefferson…rate your vote on the Texas Supreme Court
Even as we still find voters amongst us who have absolutely no idea what the Texas Supreme Court does, the high court continues to handle important business in the matter of civil and juvenile cases on appeal. In recognition of its work and steady progress in recent years, we heartily recommend the re-election of highly respected Chief Justice Wallace Jefferson, Republican, as the one to lead the court further into the 21st century. That includes, we hope, continuing efforts to reform how we all view the judiciary in this state, such as steering our two highest courts — the other being the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals — away from partisan politics.
While no one will agree with every court decision, Jefferson, appointed by Gov. Rick Perry, commands respect across the state, partially because of his efforts to modernize the court system, even weather-proofing it in a fashion. In the wake of hurricanes Katrina and Rita, his initiative helped ensure court records and personnel were protected when Hurricane Ike came calling in Galveston County.
Jefferson has also pushed to streamline Texas’ sometimes overwhelmingly complex court system. He has sought to ensure justice for those he calls “the most vulnerable population — neglected children, persons with mental illness and the indigent.” An example: the creation of the Permanent Judicial Commission for Children, Youth and Families, which seeks to sharply improve child protection across the state.
