Marion Higa has been reappointed for another eight years as auditor for the state Legislature.

The confirmation came after little discussion by the state House and Senate, which met briefly for a joint-session to reconfirm Higa legislative ombudsman Robin Matsunaga. Senators also voted to confirm Ken Takayama, director of the Legislative Reference Bureau.

Takayama was appointed for a six-year term. Matsunaga was reappointed to a six-year term.

State Sen. Gordon Trimble objected to the process of the reconfirmations, saying that no public hearings were held and lawmakers were not given job performance evaluations and other information on which to base their decisions.

He had particular criticism for Higa, saying he had heard from others that her audits were sometimes one-sided and only included negative observations.

All three appointees were praised by other lawmakers, however.

Of Higa, Senate Majority Leader Gary Hooser said, "I just think she's doing a bang-up job and is really and truly enthusiastic."