How are about half of all state judges chosen?

About half of all state judges in the United States are chosen through popular elections, where voters directly elect judges to their positions. This method can vary by state, with some using partisan elections, while others may opt for nonpartisan elections. In contrast, the other half of judges may be appointed by governors or state legislatures, often with some form of confirmation process. This dual system reflects differing approaches to judicial selection across the country.