Opinion 26-71

May 7, 2026

Facts/Issue:    May a judge display a framed campaign sign from his/her own, now concluded campaign for judicial office in chambers?  The judge notes that litigants and the public do not have access to chambers, and the sign does not indicate any political affiliation.

Discussion:     Given that the election has already taken place, the sign as described is essentially an item of memorabilia and cannot reasonably be seen as impermissible political activity.  Nor is it likely to create any appearance of impropriety or raise reasonable questions about the judge’s impartiality for attorneys or others invited to enter the judge’s private chambers.  In reaching this conclusion, we again note the distinction between the courtroom, a public space where matters are adjudicated, and judge’s chambers, which are ordinarily considered more private areas.

Conclusion:     A judge may display a framed campaign sign from his/her prior campaign for judicial office as memorabilia in the judge’s own chambers which are not open to the public.

Authorities:  Opinions 23-147; 20-101; 19-50.