142 ADDRESSES AND STATE PAPERS

Consequently, I very well may take a position later on — and I don't
reach this today — that it may be best for the two central committees
not to field the slate of candidates, but simply to allow wide open
filings, wait to see who is filed, screen them and make an evaluation
of their capabilities and then decide whom to endorse.

Q. Governor, along that line, there are indications that in Baltimore
City, one of our Municipal Court judges may run for the Constitu-
tional Convention. How do you feel about members of the bench
taking part?

A. That is the first I heard of any member of the bench showing)
an interest for running for the Constitutional Convention. My off-
hand reaction would be that if there ever is a position that demands
absolute dedication and removal of all other interests, it's the judi-
ciary. And I think without really making a firm decision, my im-
mediate reaction is that I'm not sure it would be a good idea for any
judge to serve. After all, the judges may be called on to evaluate the
work of this convention in some way or another, or the effects of the
work of the convention. Although it doesn't apply to a Municipal
Court judge, it may very well apply to other members of the judiciary.

Q. How do you feel about the former Governor?

A. I think Governor Tawes would render a very substantial contri-
bution to the Constitutional Convention. After eight years in this
office, preceded by many years of service in the State government and
in his local government, I think he certainly has the experience and
the background and the balance to be a very valuable member of the
convention, and I hope he does run. I'll support him.

Q. Are you indicating through your comments on the Constitutional
Convention that it has become some kind of political football and it
is not adhering to bipartisanship?

A. Well, it's hard to say that it would become a football and it's
difficult to censure an effort at nonpartisanship, such as conceived by
County Executive Anderson. I do have a fear that people who do not
have avenues of communication to the formal political organizations,
who may be very valuable people, would be afraid to run because
they may think unless they have the formal backing of the central
committees they have no chance of winning. No one likes to run and
get clobbered just for the sake of running for an office, where he is
going to give service of this type. Therefore, it seems to me that the
best possible procedure for the formal party organizations to develop