Lawmakers in Kentucky have taken a significant step toward impeaching a sitting judge, advancing proceedings against Julie Muth Goodman following a committee decision on Wednesday.
After a closed-door session lasting about an hour, the impeachment committee announced it would move ahead with drafting formal articles of impeachment against the Fayette County circuit judge.
The effort stems from a petition filed earlier this year by Killian Timoney, who alleged misconduct and abuse of judicial authority. The complaint references multiple cases in which Goodman is accused of overstepping her role on the bench.
One key allegation involves claims that Goodman conducted independent research related to a fatal-hit-and-run case, including reviewing data on racial disparities in criminal charges—actions critics argue fall outside judicial responsibilities.
Goodman has denied wrongdoing and previously testified before the committee, urging lawmakers to dismiss the petition. She also sought to halt the process through an emergency injunction, arguing that the proceedings violated her due process rights.
Her attorney, Robert McBride, expressed disappointment but said the outcome was not unexpected.
This marks the first impeachment effort against a sitting judge in Kentucky in more than a century. The case will now move to the state Senate, where a trial will determine whether Goodman will be removed from office. A majority vote will be required for removal.
The committee did not address other pending impeachment petitions, including one involving Pamela Goodwine.