Charles W. Johnson*

Age: 51

Residence: Gig Harbor

Occupation: Supreme Court justice

Education: B.A. in economics, University of Washington; J.D., University of Puget Sound

Endorsements: Washington State Labor Council, AFL-CIO; Washington State Council of Fire Fighters.

Campaign Web site: None reported

Campaign theme: To maintain a strong commitment to individual rights, to continue my efforts to improve the efficiency of the court system and to increase access to justice for the poor and vulnerable.

Rating: Well-qualified.

General election question

What about your personal background and community involvement qualifies you for this position?

I practiced law for 14 years, representing clients with more common legal problems, the type of cases the court often deals with. I enjoy, in my spare time, teaching state constitutional law at Seattle University and support dozens of worthwhile community programs.

Primary election questions

What can Washington state justices do to ensure mistakes aren’t made in death-penalty cases?

We can, as we have, adopt rules requiring appointment of qualified counsel and, as the budget allows, increase the pay to attract more qualified counsel.

What do you think about a judge declaring the Pledge of Allegiance unconstitutional because it mentions God?

I disagree that the First Amendment prohibits repeating the words "under God." The First Amendment is concerned about the establishment of a government religion and is not antagonistic toward religious practices.

What value do you hold above all others and why?

Personally, my relationship with my wife and family. As a judge, individual rights and liberties.