Update 11:35 a.m. Brownback spokeswoman Eileen Hawley has revised her statement to say only that the release of names is under discussion. She said she'd been premature in announcing a change in plans because the governor hadn't formally signed off. Hawley said no final decision has been made.
6:55 a.m. Governor Sam Brownback now plans to release the names of applicants for a new seat on the state court of appeals. Brownback's spokeswoman Eileen Hawley said Tuesday the governor changed his position because he wants to focus on appointing a high-quality judge to the seat. Hawley said the names will be disclosed after the July 31 application deadline. Under a selection process enacted this year, the governor will appoint judges to the court of appeals, subject to state Senate confirmation. Previously, a judicial nominating commission screened applicants and named three finalists. The governor then selected one, with no legislator input. The League of Women Voters of Kansas filed a request last week for the names to be released.