Connecticut Supreme Court Nominee Withdraws Amid Controversy

Sandra Slack Glover steps aside after scrutiny over her support for Amy Coney Barrett and lack of judicial experience.

A nominee for Connecticut’s highest court, Sandra Slack Glover, has withdrawn her candidacy following questions raised by lawmakers about her qualifications and a 2017 letter supporting Amy Coney Barrett for a federal appeals court position.

Democratic Governor Ned Lamont announced Glover’s decision on Friday, just days after she appeared before the Judiciary Committee, which had delayed voting on her confirmation. The hesitation by the Democratic-controlled panel signalled doubts about her support despite the governor’s advocacy.

In a statement, Lamont expressed his disappointment, calling Glover “an extraordinary candidate” and “a lawyer of experience, character, and compassion.” He added that he would search for another nominee who aligns with his values of justice, equality, and fairness in the coming months.

Glover, a federal prosecutor without prior judicial experience, faced intense questioning during her confirmation hearing. One of the focal points was her signature on a letter endorsing Amy Coney Barrett in 2017. Glover later stated that she regretted her decision, especially after Barrett’s role in overturning Roe v. Wade.

“When I look at that letter now, I’m no longer comfortable with some of those statements,” Glover admitted. She explained that she had believed judicial guardrails would protect legal precedents but now realised her error. “Knowing what I know now, I shouldn’t have signed it,” she said.

Despite her assurances of being a staunch supporter of abortion rights, both as a lawyer and a woman, lawmakers remained sceptical. Concerns about her lack of judicial experience further complicated her nomination.

Judiciary Committee Co-Chairman Rep. Steve Stafstrom, a Democrat from Bridgeport, said, “While Attorney Glover is a skilled prosecutor and attorney, her confirmation faced significant challenges due to unanswered questions.” He added that her withdrawal was a decision he respected.

This is not the first time a governor has faced difficulties with judicial appointments. Earlier this year, New York Governor Kathy Hochul also had to replace her nominee for the state’s highest court after Senate rejection.

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