Some social conservatives testified at a confirmation hearing that Lenk might bring a pro-gay rights political agenda to the high court.
Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court nominee Barbara Lenk, center, listens to testimony during a confirmation hearing at the Statehouse in Boston, last week. If confirmed by the eight-member Governor's Council, Lenk, a state Appeals Court judge would be the first openly gay member of the high court.BOSTON – Gov. Deval L. Patrick’s nomination of Massachusetts Appeals Court Judge Barbara Lenk for a seat on the state’s highest court is set for a vote by the Governor’s Council.
The council, which votes on all judicial nominations, is expected to decide on Wednesday whether to confirm Lenk.
If confirmed, Lenk would be the first openly gay justice on the Supreme Judicial Court.
Some councilors have criticized Patrick for referring to Lenk’s sexual orientation while announcing the nomination last month. But the governor has said Lenk was chosen for her qualifications and experience.
She has served on the superior and appellate courts.
Some social conservatives testified at a confirmation hearing last week that Lenk might bring a pro-gay rights political agenda to the high court.
Lenk said as a judge her only allegiance was the rule of law.
More details coming in on MassLive and in The Republican.