Scott Recuses From Redistricting Appeal

{Frankfort, Kentucky}...Tuesday, the Kentucky Supreme Court fast tracked an appeal filed after Franklin Circuit Judge Phillip Shepherd ruled newly drawn legislative districts unconstitutional. Supreme Court Justice Will T. Scott of Pikeville has recused himself from the case, saying he wanted to avoid any suggestion or appearance of partiality because he is running for re-election from a district that was redrawn in HB 1. Scott says the 7th Judicial District he represents would be significantly affected by changes approved by lawmakers in January. The state's highest court said all responses to all motions in the case must be filed with its clerk by noon Friday. The legislative map was challenged by House Republicans and Democratic state Senator Kathy Stein of Lexington. Stein's attorney, Scott White of Lexington, filed a response Tuesday afternoon to the appeal, arguing that HB 1 should be void and is unconstitutional.