The commission that picks finalists for the Missouri Supreme Court will interview 18 applicants to replace Judge William Ray Price Jr.
The commission said the pool includes three women and one racial minority. The commission selects three finalists, and Gov. Jay Nixon makes the final appointment.
Applicants include at least five who have worked for Nixon or his administration.
Jeff Harris is a former lawmaker who works in the governor's office. Appellate Judge Karen Mitchell was Revenue Department director and Nixon appointed her to the Court of Appeals' Western District. Paul Wilson left the governor's office for a circuit judge appointment and now works in private practice. James McAdams is a state department leader.
State Solicitor James Layton worked for Nixon when he was attorney general before becoming governor.
