Who elects the judges on the superior court?

• A. Governor
• B. Qualified voters
• C. State Legislature
• D. Judicial Council

Answer: (B)

Judges on the superior court in Arizona are elected by qualified voters. This process reflects the democratic principle of allowing the electorate to have a voice in their judicial system, ensuring that judges are accountable to the public they serve. In Arizona, judges to the superior court serve six-year terms, and elections for these positions are held at regular intervals, allowing voters to evaluate the performance of incumbent judges and make decisions on their retention or replacement.

This system is designed to enhance judicial independence while maintaining accountability, as judges are chosen by the people rather than appointed by a governmental body such as the governor or the state legislature. Such a process helps to mitigate potential biases that could arise from political appointments. Other options, like the governor or the state legislature, typically have roles in appointing judges to higher courts or in making policy, but the direct election of superior court judges by voters is a defining characteristic of Arizona's judicial selection system.