How are Florida judges selected?

• A. They are elected in statewide elections.
• B. They are appointed by the governor from a list provided by a Judicial Nominating Commission and may be retained or removed; some judges stand for retention after appointment.
• C. They are appointed by the legislature.
• D. They are selected by random draw.

Answer: (B)

Florida uses a merit-based method to choose most of its judges. A Judicial Nominating Commission screens applicants and provides the governor with a list of qualified candidates. The governor then appoints a judge from that list. After appointment, most judges face a retention vote in a general election, where voters decide whether to keep them for a full term. If not retained, the seat is filled again through the same appointment process. This system blends appointment with voter accountability, rather than direct elections for the initial selection.