Paul Iwasaki, a Salt Lake City Justice Court judge, was confirmed as a judge in the 2nd District Juvenile Court Wednesday by the state Senate — but not without controversy.

Four senators voted against Iwasaki's nomination, a very rare show of opposition to a gubernatorial nominee that included concerns raised about the judge's attitude toward defendants.

Sen. Dave Thomas, R-South Weber, said he had solicited comments from Salt Lake attorneys who appeared before Iwasaki in Justice Court and was told that the judge berated defendants and treated them rudely, as well as appeared angry at them.

"Those are the things that have caused me concern," Thomas said, even though Iwasaki "'appears to be a very bright and capable individual." Juvenile Court, Thomas said, requires someone who places "mentoring and patience at a premium."

Thomas voted against the nomination by Gov. Jon Huntsman Jr., along with three other Republican senators, Allen Christensen of North Ogden, Scott Jenkins of Plain City, and Howard Stephenson of Draper.

Iwasaki was praised as a "great, great nominee" by Sen. Chris Buttars, R-West Jordan, the chairman of the Senate committee that reviews judicial nominees. Buttars said the concerns raised were "talked about very, very frankly " with Iwasaki.

But having a "strong hand" while being a loving person is necessary to deal with juveniles, Buttars said, referring to his own background working with troubled youths. "I know what it takes," he said.

After the vote, Iwasaki thanked the senators for their support. "You have entrusted me with our most precious resources, children and families," he said. "You may be assured I will not breach that trust."

Senate Majority Leader Pete Knudson, R-Brigham City, said opposition to a gubernatorial nominee was "very rare." The Senate leader described Iwasaki as "not heavy-handed, but he does care."

The governor's other nominees up for confirmation, including new Department of Commerce Executive Director Francine Giani, were approved during the Senate confirmation session without dissent.

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