The state Senate Judiciary and Government Affairs Committee deadlocked today on former U.S. Attorney Edward Kubo's nomination as Circuit Court judge, seriously jeopardizing his nomination.

The state Senate, which could vote on Kubo as soon as Friday, usually follows the recommendation of committee chairmen.

The committee was split 3-3, but state Sen. Brian Taniguchi, D-10th (Manoa, McCully), the chairman, voted to reject Kubo's nomination because of what he considered insufficient answers to whether Kubo should have disclosed several potentially controversial cases.

Kubo, who was nominated by Gov. Linda Lingle, had received widespread community and political support. He was rated qualified by the Hawaii State Bar Association.

State Sen. Sam Slom, R-8th (Kahala, Hawaii Kai), said rejecting Kubo would send the wrong message to people who are interested in public service.