JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) – An attorney in Missouri Gov. Jay Nixon’s office is one of three nominees to replace a retiring state appeals court judge.

The Appellate Judicial Commission on Tuesday announced the nominees to replace state Western District Court of Appeals Judge Joseph Ellis, who retired in March after 23 years on the court. The governor now can pick a replacement from that pool.

Candidates include Edward Ardini, who is an attorney for Nixon’s office; Jackson County Circuit Judge Brent Powell, who is married to U.S. District Judge Beth Phillips; and Kansas City lawyer Teresa Woody. Nixon has 60 days to act. If he doesn’t, the judicial panel will make the appointment.

The seven-member Judicial Commission includes the Missouri Supreme Court’s chief justice, lawyers and three members appointed by Nixon.