1. Since Texas elects its state judges on a partisan basis, it is important for the public to understand the judicial selection process. Complicating the problem for Texas' voters is the sheer number of judicial offices that must be voted upon. Judges who have to seek reelection must often raise large sums of money. Business and lawyers are often the source of these funds.

a. How much do you think voters really know about the judicial qualifications of the candidates they vote for? .... how important is political party affiliation to the fair and equitable interpretation of the law?

b. Do you think the campaign funds donated to judicial candidates from special interest groups compromises their ability to make fair and impartial decisions? ... is this a problem? .... how serious?