Judge David W. Norton said Thursday that he remains a candidate for the Division V Hamilton County General Sessions Court judgeship he now holds by appointment, despite health issues that have kept him away from work and prevented him from actively campaigning for the past few weeks. He said he is affected "by an inherited neurological condition that is non-life-threatening and controllable by medication."
“This message is a follow-up to the public release I made on July 2,” said Judge Norton.
“At that time, I disclosed my health issue and asked Hamilton County citizens to bear with me while I received medical attention. I accepted my current judicial appointment with every intention of working hard and campaigning vigorously for election. My health setback was very unfortunately timed, but I fully expected that I would be able to return to both the bench and my campaign in short order. Now I have been advised by my physician that I face the prospect of tests, treatment and recovery that are expected to take longer than I had hoped.
“If elected, I will not be able to serve immediately. However, my name remains on the ballot and I want to see the election through, giving voters the right to decide who they would prefer to see in this very important position. I have been honored and humbled by the public support I have received. This includes everyone from the County Commission who entrusted me with my current appointment, to the General Sessions judges and special judges who have willingly handled my docket during my absence, to the many wonderful volunteers and donors who are supporting my campaign.
“Since receiving my prognosis earlier this week, I have been deliberating exactly how to proceed. I had expected to arrive at a decision and make an announcement by the end of the week. Last night, I learned that the local newspaper will publish an article on Friday concerning my absence from the bench. I have willingly worked with the reporter who is writing that story, but I am making this announcement today so that my supporters can hear from me directly, as was my original intention.”
Gary Starnes, another candidate, said, “I just read the most recent press release from David Norton’s campaign concerning his health issues. I have known David Norton for approximately 20 years and consider him to be a friend and colleague. My family and I wish him a safe and speedy recovery.”