SAINT PAUL, Minn. – Governor Tim Walz has appointed Justice Theodora Gaïtas as chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court and Judge Reynaldo Aligada, Jr. to fill the vacancy of Chief Justice Natalie Hudson who announced she’s retiring in September.
“Justice Gaïtas will be an exceptional chief justice, leading the Judicial Branch with wisdom, resolve, and fairness,” said Governor Walz. “She brings a rare breadth of experience, having served at every level of our state’s judiciary, and will be the first public defender to serve as chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court. That perspective will be invaluable, guiding her leadership as she takes on this profound responsibility to serve all Minnesotans.”
“I am honored by this appointment, which I accept with gratitude and purpose,” said Justice Theodora Gaïtas. “I’m committed to a judiciary that all Minnesotans can access, trust, and rely on. These commitments will guide every decision I make as chief justice. I look forward to working alongside the talented judges and court professionals across this state, whose dedication makes justice possible every day. And I want to recognize and thank Chief Justice Hudson, who has provided outstanding service to the judicial branch and the people of Minnesota.”
Justice Gaïtas has been on the Minnesota Supreme Court since August 2024 and has served as a judge on the Minnesota Court of Appeals and as a judge in the Fourth Judicial District.
“It is my distinct honor to appoint Judge Aligada to the Minnesota Supreme Court,” said Governor Walz. “He is someone who leaves a lasting impression on everyone he meets, pairing a keen legal mind with genuine humility and compassion. He will be a justice who truly sees and listens to the people who come before him, ensuring every voice is heard and respected. In addition to his outstanding judicial background, he will bring a perspective not yet represented on this court, the voice of Minnesota’s Asian Pacific Islander community, further strengthening the court’s connection to the people it serves.”
“I am humbled and honored to be selected as an associate justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court” said Judge Reynaldo Aligada. “I am so grateful to the Governor and his team for entrusting me with this great responsibility. I recognize the impact the Court’s decisions have on the lives of Minnesotans, and I will strive to do justice and protect the rule of law.”
Judge Aligada, Jr. is a district court judge in Ramsey County and previously worked in the Office of the Federal Defender and a clerk for Judge Wilhelmina M. Wright on the Minnesota Court of Appeals and Judge Michael J. Davis on the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota.
