Council Sets Hearings for Baker’s High Court Picks

BOSTON (AP) — Confirmation hearings have been scheduled for three judges nominated by Republican Gov. Charlie Baker to the state’s highest court.

The Governor’s Council plans to interview Frank Gaziano on July 6, David Lowy on July 20 and Kimberly Budd on Aug. 3.

All three currently serve on the Superior Court. If confirmed, they would fill vacancies on the seven-member Supreme Judicial Court that will be created by the retirements of Associate Justices Fernande Duffly, Francis Spina and Robert Cordy.

In announcing his picks, Baker said Budd, Lowy and Gaziano have demonstrated outstanding legal knowledge and skills throughout their careers.

The Governor’s Council is an eight-member elected body that reviews all judicial nominations. The council is chaired by Republican Lt. Gov. Karyn Polito, who cannot vote except to break ties.