BISMARCK — Three justices on the North Dakota Supreme Court will contend for the position of chief justice.
Justices Daniel Crothers, Lisa Fair McEvers and Jon Jensen filed paperwork before the midnight deadline on Wednesday, Nov. 6, to vie for the top position on the five-member court, according to state court administrator Sally Holewa. Justice Jerod Tufte did not express interest in the position.
Current Chief Justice Gerald VandeWalle, 86, announced in September that he will not pursue the top spot but will stay on the court. He has served in the role since 1993 and on the court since 1978.
A ballot with the three contenders will be sent to the justices and all district court judges in the state and returned no later than Nov. 18, Holewa said. The highest vote-getter will be announced Nov. 25.
The chief justice is elected every five years unless his or her term ends before the regular term is up.
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This story has been updated from a previous version to correct the process for deciding a chief justice.