Gov. Blunt Selects Breckenridge from Three-Candidate Panel to Missouri Supreme Court

NEVADA – Gov. Matt Blunt today selected Judge Patricia Breckenridge from a panel of three candidates submitted by the Appellate Judicial Commission to serve on the Missouri Supreme Court.  Gov. Blunt issued the following statement:           "Patricia Breckenridge is experienced in the trial and appellate court and has addressed issues in all major areas of law.  From our conversations and my study of her work, I believe she is conscientious and dedicated to the fair administration of justice.           "After an extensive review process and much consideration, I believe Judge Breckenridge to be the best candidate of the three candidates submitted to me by the Appellate Judicial Commission.           "I believe that Judge Breckenridge can improve the Missouri Supreme Court by replacing one of its most liberal members.  I also accept Judge Breckenridge's statement that she will not seek to legislate from the bench.            "I cannot be certain that any judge selected by this Appellate Judicial Commission will follow the judicial philosophy of U.S. Supreme Court Chief Justice Roberts, who I believe should be a model.  I share Chief Justice Roberts' stated belief that judges should be like umpires who apply the rules rather than make them.  The hallmarks of Chief Justice Roberts' judicial philosophy are humility about the proper role of the courts, respect for the intent and letter of laws enacted by the democratically chosen branches, and separation of policy opinions from judging.  I hope that Judge Breckenridge will also view Chief Justice Roberts' judicial philosophy as a model.           "I congratulate Judge Breckenridge and her family on this important appointment.  May she serve with honor and distinction and always remain true to our constitution." -- http://www.bransonedge.com http://www.bransonmissouri.blogspot.com