Florida Supreme Courtroom Shake-Up: Justice Charles Canady’s Retirement Opens Door for One other DeSantis Appointment

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Justice Charles Canady has introduced his intention to step down from the Florida Supreme Courtroom in 2026.

Appointed by then-Governor Charlie Crist in 2008, Canady revealed on Monday that he’ll transition to a brand new position as director of the Hamilton Faculty for Classical and Civic Training on the College of Florida.

“My years on the Courtroom have been extremely fulfilling, however it’s time to embark on a brand new journey in public service,” Canady said in his announcement.

In his letter, Canady expressed gratitude to UF Board of Trustees Chairman Mori Hosseini and Interim President Don Landry for offering this chance.

On the age of 71, Canady has a distinguished profession historical past, having served in each the Florida Home and the U.S. Congress, earlier than taking over roles as basic counsel and an appeals courtroom decide below former Governor Jeb Bush.

Whereas in Washington, Canady turned recognized for his robust stance in opposition to abortion, notably coining the time period “partial delivery abortion” and authoring the preliminary congressional invoice aimed toward banning the process.

He additionally was one of many congressmen who helped prosecute former President Invoice Clinton’s 1999 impeachment trial.

Canady is married to State Rep. Jennifer Canady, R-Lakeland.

With Canady’s retirement, Gov. Ron DeSantis should select his alternative. The state’s judicial qualifying fee will give DeSantis a listing of potential nominees to select from.

This additionally means DeSantis can have chosen six of the seven Florida Supreme Courtroom justices by the top of his time in workplace. Solely Justice Jorge LaBarga is left among the many justices chosen by DeSantis’ predecessors. He was additionally appointed by Gov. Crist in 2008.

Justices, as soon as appointed, are topic to a retention vote each six years, which provides Florida voters the prospect to take them off the bench if they need. The governor then appoints a brand new one.

Justices are additionally required to retire as soon as they flip 75.

Data from Information Service of Florida contributed to this story.