Beech Tree News Network

Kentucky Press News Service-Frankfort - In a move that was widely anticipated, Gov. Steve Beshear on Friday appointed David Williams as a circuit judge in the 40th judicial district covering south central Kentucky.

In a statement issued from his office, the governor said:

“The nominating commission representing lawyers and citizens in the 40th judicial circuit considered all the applicants for the position of circuit judge. The commission chose three people who met the rigorous criteria for serving in that position, including knowledge of the law and of the community.

I am appointing Senator David Williams to this judgeship effective Nov. 2.

Senator Williams is an experienced lawyer and is familiar with the district, having represented the area in the legislature for more than 20 years.”

The appointment means Williams will leave the state Senate president's post. That raises questions such as who will become the next Senate president and what will this development mean for the establishment of casino gambling in the state.

Williams, an attorney from Burkesville and Beshear's longtime political opponent, had steadfastly opposed gaming in the state.