(AP) — A state judicial nominating commission forwarded the names of three nominees for a county judgeship in eastern Nebraska to Gov. Dave Heineman for his consideration.

The commission narrowed a field of eight applicants for the 5th Judicial District. The nominees from which the governor will choose are Thomas J. Klein, of Wahoo, James C. Stecker, of Columbus, and Stephen R.W. Twiss, of Central City.

The vacancy is due to the retirement of Judge Curtis H. Evans. The 5th Judicial District consists of Boone, Butler, Colfax, Hamilton, Merrick, Nance, Platte, Polk, Saunders, Seward and York Counties.

Heineman will schedule interviews with nominees in the coming weeks.