Supremes smack down Crist's JNC moves

So much for appointing a majority of the high court.

In a unanimous decision, the Florida Supreme Court repeatedly said it "rejects" Gov. Charlie Crist's efforts to require the Judicial Nominating Commission to submit a new list of judges for the 5th District Court of Appeals. The court said Crist had to pick a judge from the original list he received. Crist argued he could wait until he was provided a slate of candidates with more diversity.

"The Governor lacks authority under the constitution to seek a new list of nominees from the JNC and has a mandatory duty to fill the vacancy created by Petitioner's retirement with an appointment from the list certified to him on November 6, 2008. Because we believe the Governor will fully comply with the dictates of this opinion, we grant the petition but withhold issuance of the writ," the court wrote.

Crist said in a statement: "While I am disappointed by today’s decision that the Judicial Nominating Commission cannot reconsider these important nominations, I respect the Supreme Court’s decision and their consideration of this case.  I remain committed to ensuring that the diversity of the people of Florida is represented in our judiciary. In respect to the Court’s decision, I look forward to interviewing and considering the nominees for the Fifth District Court of Appeal.”

Opinion is here Download Sc09-565