Former U.S. Attorney Ed Kubo appears likely to be confirmed as a Circuit Court judge today after the Senate Judiciary Committee chairman said he probably would withdraw his opposition to the nomination.

Judiciary Chairman Brian Taniguchi had recommended rejection of Kubo's appointment, casting doubt over his confirmation last week. But last night, Taniguchi said he was likely to vote in favor of Kubo's nomination “;with reservations.”;

The vote is counted as a yes vote, and Taniguchi speculated that his change of heart is likely to have an impact among fellow Democrats. The committee voted 3-3 on Kubo's nomination to the Oahu Circuit Court bench.

Taniguchi (D, Manoa) met with Kubo for a half-hour yesterday and talked about three instances of minor judicial admonishment that Kubo had not included with his resume.

“;I think he felt that looking back on it he should have disclosed,”; Taniguchi said.

The veteran legislator had originally said he was inclined to support Kubo, although Kubo was a strong Republican.

“;I'm satisfied with his answers,”; Taniguchi said, adding that other senators are looking at him to make a recommendation on Kubo's confirmation.

“;It may have some impact. If I go up on it, it will be more difficult for others to go down,”; Taniguchi said.

“;I think now he (Kubo) is in a better position to get the nomination.”;

Senate Republican leader Fred Hemmings also said Kubo is expected to be confirmed today.

“;I appreciate Sen. Taniguchi's ability to be flexible on the issue.

“;I think after hearing his explanations and the overwhelming public sentiment, it change his vote,”; Hemmings said.

“;I expect passage, and rightfully so. He is a good man and has done a lot of good for Hawaii,”; Hemmings said.

Gov. Linda Lingle's nomination of Kubo had been criticized because Lingle had not appointed more women to the bench, and she said she looked for judicial candidates who had experience as prosecutors.

Kubo himself had strong support from Hawaii's four county mayors, the prosecuting attorneys and even members of the Democratic political establishment, including Speaker of the House Calvin Say.