This November, Indiana voters will have the opportunity to participate in a retention vote for three justices of the Indiana Supreme Court: Chief Justice Loretta Rush, and Associate Justices Mark Massa and Derek Molter. We encourage you to vote “Yes” for the retention of these Justices and all of the Court of Appeals Judges who are on the ballot.
Why Is It Important for You to Participate in This Vote?
Voting is your right; your chance to be heard. Every vote counts, and your voice matters.
As you prepare to cast your ballot next month, we want to remind you about the impactful contributions the current justices have made to Indiana’s judicial system as a whole.
What Are Some Recent Accomplishments of the Indiana Supreme Court?
The Indiana Supreme Court justices have a responsibility to uphold justice and interpret the law for our state. In recent years, the Indiana Supreme Court has:
- Consistently upheld the constitution and interpreted laws as written
- Maintained a reputation for fairness and impartiality in their rulings
- Ensured equal justice under the law for all Indiana citizens
- Earned respect both within Indiana and across the nation for well-reasoned decisions
Meet the Justices Shaping Indiana’s Legal Landscape
In this retention vote, Indiana’s registered voters have the opportunity to decide whether these justices should continue serving on the state’s highest court. In addition to how these justices have served Indiana, the following provides some additional information about their professional background:
Chief Justice Loretta H. Rush
Appointed in 2012, became Indiana’s first female Chief Justice in 2014
- Served as President of the Conference of Chief Justices
- Co-chairs the National Judicial Opioid Task Force, addressing a critical issue affecting many Indiana communities
- Serves on the National Judicial Task Force to Examine State Courts’ Response to Mental Illness, which could help improve how courts handle mental health issues
- Received the Indiana Civil Rights Commission Spirit of Justice Award for her work on civil rights issues
- Earned the Addiction Policy Forum Pillar of Excellence Award, indicating efforts to address addiction in the community
Justice Mark S. Massa
Appointed in 2012
- Chairs the Indiana Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative – helping to make an impact on young people in the justice system.
- Serves as liaison to the State Board of Law Examiners and the Supreme Court Disciplinary Commission, which helps maintain the integrity of the legal profession in Indiana.
- Teaches at the Indiana University McKinney School of Law, contributing to ongoing legal education in the state.
Justice Derek R. Molter
Appointed in 2022, bringing fresh perspectives to the court
- Has extensive experience in appellate practice, having led in this area at a major Indianapolis law firm. This contributes to his ability to make well-reasoned decisions that affect Indiana citizens today.
- Was responsible for managing appeals in both the state and federal courts throughout the U.S., preparing him to better serve Indiana’s diverse legal needs.
- Advocated for pro bono clients, including defending criminal charges and pursuing discrimination, civil rights, and housing claims.
- Acquired crucial insights into legislative procedures during his time working as a legal intern with the Judiciary Committee of the United States House of Representatives. This experience enriches his approach to judicial responsibilities today.
- Has background in both private practice and public service, which provides a balanced perspective on legal issues affecting Indiana residents.
Your Voice; Your Vote: It Matters
Retention votes play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of our judicial system. By participating in this process, you contribute to:
- Ensuring the continuity of a well-functioning Supreme Court
- Upholding the principle of judicial accountability
- Preserving the balance of power in our state government
Remember this November that your voice matters in this decision. We encourage all eligible voters to:
- Research the justices and their records
- Consider the impact of the Supreme Court on Indiana’s legal landscape
- Make an informed decision based on the justices’ qualifications and performance
When you exercise your right to vote you help to shape the future of Indiana’s judiciary and, by extension, the application of law in our state.
Every vote counts. Let your voice be heard this November.
