A group called "Fair Courts for All," funded by the Alliance for Justice, is targeting five out of twelve federal district court judges who are facing election activity fees. The judges being opposed are Judge Dale A. Kimball, Judge Dee Benson, Judge Jill N. Parrish, Judge David Nuffer, and Judge Robert J. Shelby. The opposition is based on the judges' support for equal rights for the LGBTQ+ community. These judges have previously ruled in favor of LGBTQ+ rights, and the opposition is attempting to remove them from their positions by blocking their retention elections. Retention elections are typically uncontested and allow voters to decide whether a judge should be retained for another term. The opposition is using "vote no" campaigns to encourage voters to vote against the retention of these judges. This opposition is seen as an attempt to undermine the independence of the judiciary and the principle of equal justice under the law [be06fb19].
This development highlights the ongoing challenges faced by judges who support LGBTQ+ rights. It also raises concerns about the potential impact on the judicial system and the protection of civil rights. The Alliance for Justice, a progressive advocacy group, is funding the opposition to these judges. The group supports judicial nominees who are committed to equal justice and the protection of civil rights. The judges being targeted are facing unfair opposition based on their previous rulings in favor of LGBTQ+ rights. Their removal would have significant implications for the independence of the judiciary and the principle of equal justice [be06fb19].