Subject: 'Political Tug of War' Over Courts Going On in States Across Nation

A "political tug of war" is taking place around the country, with conservative lawmakers hoping to reshape state courts to be more accountable to a right-leaning public, the New York Times reports.

In one of the highest-profile battles, a GOP-controlled Senate in Kansas passed a bill last month to authorize impeachment of justices if their decisions "usurp" the power of other branches, the Times reports.

"If you’re going to make political rulings, then you should be politically accountable," explained the bill sponsor, state Sen. Dennis Pyle.

And in November, conservatives hope to remake the seven-member Supreme Court in Kansas by unseating four justices regarded as too moderate or liberal, the Times reports.

But the conflict is erupting in many of the 38 states where justices are either directly elected or face periodic retention elections.

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