South Carolina’s Judicial Merit Selection Commission (SCJMSC) has issued a notice of public hearings for the five candidates who will vie for the open associate justice seat on the South Carolina Supreme Court. The vacancy arose after Justice John Few resigned on July 31, 2026 following a contentious dispute with the General Assembly over a state abortion statute.
Background on the vacancy
Justice Few, appointed by the legislature, became a focal point of debate when he required lawmakers to revise a controversial abortion law in 2023. Critics accused him of judicial activism, but supporters noted that his interpretation aligned with the South Carolina Constitution. Two years later, the legislature passed a new abortion statute that reflected the court’s earlier ruling.
Five candidates named
The SCJMSC’s public filing lists the following judges as contenders for the Supreme Court seat:
- Ralph K. Anderson III – chief judge of the South Carolina Administrative Law Court
- John D. Geathers – associate judge of the South Carolina Court of Appeals
- Eugene C. “Bubba” Griffith Jr. – circuit court judge
- Blake A. Hewitt – associate judge of the South Carolina Court of Appeals
- Maite Murphy – circuit court judge
In addition to the Supreme Court race, the commission noted two uncontested elections for the Court of Appeals and sixteen uncontested circuit court races across the state.
Public hearing schedule
Public hearings on the five candidates will begin on Monday, November 16, 2026 at 9:00 a.m. EST. Individuals who wish to testify must submit notarized written statements to the SCJMSC by 12:00 p.m. EDT on November 2, 2026.
Calls for reform
Critics of the current selection process argue that the legislature’s direct control over judicial nominations creates a conflict of interest and undermines the principle of separation of powers. Some observers have suggested a hybrid model that would involve gubernatorial appointment, Senate confirmation, and periodic retention elections to increase accountability and balance.
Local impact
The outcome of this selection will affect how the state’s highest court interprets laws that impact South Carolina families, businesses, and faith communities. Issues ranging from parental‑rights and religious liberty to public safety are regularly before the Supreme Court, making the choice of justice a matter of broad public interest.
Next steps
As the hearings proceed, stakeholders—including legal professionals, faith‑based groups, and concerned citizens—are encouraged to participate in the process. The SCJMSC will consider written testimony and public comments before making its final recommendation to the General Assembly, which retains the ultimate authority to confirm the new justice.
Original reporting: FITSNews — read the source article.
