Honorable members of the Senate Judiciary Committee,

I am writing as a citizen of Utah on behalf of Margaret Payne, an exceptionally qualified and well-regarded lawyer by both Governor Herbert and in good standing with the Utah State Bar Association, whose judicial nomination have blocked--a reprehensible, wholly, and inexcusably partisan and sexist decision made WITHOUT explanation or merit.

Furthermore, per Utah Constitution, Art. VIII, Sec. 8(4): rejecting a judicial nominee on partisan political grounds is also unconstitutional: "Selection of judges shall be based solely upon consideration of fitness for office without regard to any partisan political consideration."

I ask for her fair representation in a hearing in front of the committee before Governor Herbert’s term expires.

I look forward to your timely reply.

Sincerely,

Elizabeth DeHart

801-520-9374

Zip Code: 84120