SANTA FE, N.M. (CN) - The state Supreme Court upheld a code of judicial conduct that bans judges from publicly endorsing political candidates. The justices formally reprimanded magistrate court Judge William A. Vincent for allowing his name to be printed in a newspaper ad supporting Bill Standley as mayor of Farmington.
The court said the state's compelling interest in ensuring judicial impartiality outweighs Vincent's free-speech rights. The justices urged Vincent to "remain mindful of this formal reprimand whenever he is tempted to enter the political fray in the future." See ruling.
Subscribe to Closing Arguments
Sign up for new weekly newsletter Closing Arguments to get the latest about ongoing trials, major litigation and hot cases and rulings in courthouses around the U.S. and the world.