Editor,

My name is Joe McBride and I am running for Chenango County Court Judge. I am the only candidate determined to be qualified for the position of Chenango County Court Judge by the Independent Judicial Election Qualification Commission of the state of New York. The commission’s independent screening panels rate candidates in order to help voters make more informed choices. The commission’s evaluations help to ensure that candidates “possess the qualities necessary for effective judicial performance.” The rating process requires applicants to submit a detailed questionnaire responding to a variety of questions including those regarding legal employment history, educational background, bar association membership, community activities, and legal teaching experience. Applicants must also disclose, among other things, criminal convictions, findings of malpractice, orders of protection, and unsatisfied tax lien/judgments/warrants, if any.