The appointments of two Alaskans -- Sharon Gleason to the U.S. District Court in Alaska and Morgan Christen to the U.S. Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals -- can provide an example of how to temper the politics in this process.
Christen is a justice of the Alaska Supreme Court who established a solid record as an Alaska Superior Court judge before winning then-Gov. Sarah Palin's appointment to the state's highest court. Christen was one of two judges recommended by the Alaska Judicial Council in a process that aims to take political considerations out of these choices. She's been a solid addition to the five-member state Supreme Court and carries a reputation for honesty, intellect and professionalism that should make Alaskans proud.
And she's made judicial history as the only judge to win appointments from both Palin and President Barack Obama.
Christen's selection for the Ninth Circuit has the support of both Alaska's senators, Lisa Murkowski and Mark Begich. It's up to the Senate to confirm the appointment of federal judges.
Both senators also support the nomination of Gleason to succeed Judge John Sedwick, who is moving to senior status and will carry a lighter caseload. Gleason has distinguished herself over 10 years in the Superior Court in family law and some high-profile civil cases involving the state and its major oil producers. If confirmed, she'll make her own history as the first woman appointed a U.S. District Court judge in Alaska. More to the point, Gleason should make a good federal judge.
Murkowski has made clear she'll work to make sure these nominations aren't held up. Judges shouldn't be left in limbo for political reasons. They should have to pass tests for integrity, fairness, thoughtful decision-making and sound application of the law.
Christen and Gleason already have measured up. We hope they'll soon win confirmation in their new roles.
BOTTOM LINE: Good judicial appointments shouldn't wait long, and Alaska has two.
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