(4) The independent panel shall report as approved for each judicial position all highly qualified persons who make application to the panel, provided that if the number of highly qualified
applicants exceeds three times the number of existing vacancies to be filled in such position (determined as of the time the panel renders its report), the independent panel shall report as approved the most highly qualified
applicants in a number equal to three times the number of vacancies to be filled in such position, provided further that if the number of highly qualified
applicants is less
than three times the number of vacancies to be filled in such position the independent panel shall report as approved the most highly qualified
applicants in a number equal to not less
than two times the number of such vacancies, provided further that the following categories of
applicants who are eligible for reelection or reappointment shall be reported as approved if their performance during their term of office merits continuation in office, and no
other applicants shall be reported as approved for their vacancies: (a) a judge or justice completing a full term of office
seeking re-election to that office, or (b) an interim Supreme Court justice who has been appointed by the Governor to fill an existing vacancy no later
than the previous June 1 after approval of the Governor's screening panel, who has been confirmed by the State Senate and has assumed office no later
than the date the panel renders its report, and who otherwise would not be required to make application to the independent screening panel pursuant to the provisions of sub-paragraph (3).