Hawaii bar association explains negative rating for Supreme Court nominee

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HONOLULU — After saying it doesn’t disclose reasons for its ratings, the Hawaii State Bar Association is now explaining why the governor’s nominee for the state Supreme Court is rated “unqualified.”

HONOLULU — After saying it doesn’t disclose reasons for its ratings, the Hawaii State Bar Association is now explaining why the governor’s nominee for the state Supreme Court is rated “unqualified.”

The Honolulu Star-Advertiser reported the association says the negative rating for Circuit Judge Michael Wilson is because of concerns about his work ethic, professionalism and conduct toward women.

Wilson couldn’t be reached for comment.

The concerns were aired in a letter Wednesday to the state Senate Judiciary and Labor Committee.

Committee Chairman Sen. Clayton Hee said the new information from the bar association doesn’t change his view on Wilson. The senator calls the letter “an indictment absent of facts.”

The committee is recommending Wilson’s confirmation despite the rating. A full Senate vote is expected by next week.