Grand Canyon Times

Another nominee from Governor Katie Hobbs has resigned just hours before a scheduled confirmation hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee. Jacob D. Raiford, appointed to the Commission on Appellate Court Appointments, stepped down amid scrutiny over his social media activity.

Raiford's role would have involved reviewing and recommending judge candidates for the Arizona Court of Appeals and the Arizona Supreme Court, as well as candidates for the Independent Redistricting Commission. However, concerns arose regarding his impartiality due to past social media posts expressing strong views against conservative public officials.

Senate Judiciary Chairman Anthony Kern commented on the situation: "The Constitution requires these nominees to review judge candidates impartially, and with his public displays on social media, I don't know how that can be possible." He further criticized Governor Hobbs' decision-making process: "It's unfortunate Hobbs once again irresponsibly appointed someone to a position of power who clearly should not be there. In the absence of her conducting due diligence by vetting these nominees before appointment, the Senate will remain the line of defense in protecting our citizens from radical individuals who prefer to be activists for the left instead of serving all Arizonans."

Raiford's resignation highlights ongoing tensions over judicial appointments in Arizona and raises questions about vetting processes for such significant roles.