Governor Hochul today nominated the Honorable Hector D. LaSalle, Presiding Justice of New York Supreme Court's Second Department, as the next Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. Governor Hochul also announced her strong support for Judge LaSalle's intention to appoint the Honorable Edwina G. Richardson-Mendelson to serve as Chief Administrative Judge, if he is confirmed by the Senate.

Lieutenant Governor Antonio Delgado said, "Judge Hector LaSalle represents the best of New York: a brilliant, fair-minded jurist with deep respect for the rule of law and our constitutional process. Governor Hochul made a wise choice in selecting Judge LaSalle to serve on New York State's highest court, and I look forward to seeing him speedily confirmed by the Senate."

Attorney General Letitia James said, "The appointment of Justice Hector D. LaSalle to serve as the next Chief Judge for the New York State Court of Appeals is a historic accomplishment. Justice LaSalle will bring unique perspectives and a wealth of experience to this critical role and will be the first Latino and first Puerto Rican Chief Judge. In addition to over a decade of experience at multiple levels of the New York State Unified Court System, Justice LaSalle is an alum of the Office of the Attorney General. Additionally, I congratulate Judge Edwina G. Richardson-Mendelson on her appointment as Chief Administrative Judge. I commend Governor Kathy Hochul on this appointment, and I congratulate Justice LaSalle and Judge Richardson-Mendelson on their achievements."

Speaker Carl Heastie said, "The people of New York deserve a judiciary that represents them and the diverse people and needs of our state. If confirmed, Hon. Hector D. LaSalle would be the first Latino to serve as chief judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. I would also like to congratulate the Hon. Edwina G. Richardson-Mendelson, who Judge LaSalle has announced he would appoint to serve as Chief Administrative Judge. She has worked over the course of her career to ensure all New Yorkers are served by our state's justice system and would be the first African American woman to serve in this role. This is a historic nomination and appointment, and I extend my congratulations to them both."

U.S. Representative Jerrold Nadler said, "I congratulate Governor Hochul on the historic nomination of Judge LaSalle as Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. Judge LaSalle is an immensely qualified and respected jurist, and I am confident his appointment will ensure that the court pursues equitable justice for all New Yorkers. Additionally, we can all take pride and congratulate Judge LaSalle on being the first Latino Chief Judge, his life experiences will bring an important perspective to the court and our state."

U.S. Representative Nydia Velazquez said, "Today marks an historic moment for the State of New York. Justice Lasalle has committed his life to upholding the utmost values and principles of State law and the Constitution. I am confident he will bring much needed transparency, integrity and experience to the Chief Judge's position and will help shape a court that is inclusive and representative of all communities statewide. I congratulate Judge Lasalle and I thank Governor Hochul for her vision, and this remarkable choice."

U.S. Representative Gregory W. Meeks said, "Judge LaSalle is an experienced and qualified legal expert. I am more than confident in his ability to serve as the next Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. The people of New York would have a jurist who exudes leadership while providing access to justice."

U.S. Representative Yvette Clarke said, "Judge Hector D. Lasalle is a singularly qualified individual who is certain to carry his acute commitment to justice and incomparable work ethic to our vital New York State Court of Appeals. I commend Governor Hochul for her strong, historic choice, and thank her and her administration for their dedicated pursuit of progress in every corner of our great state."

U.S. Representative Adriano Espaillat said, "Congratulations to Judge Hector D. LaSalle on today's nomination from Governor Hochul to serve on the New York Court of Appeals. Hector is collaborative and equitable in his efforts, and I am confident he will be a tremendous asset to this position while bringing a level of expertise and judicial acumen to the bench. Hector is a proud Puerto Rican and would be the first Latino Chief Judge. This is a great feat for Latinos and our state of New York which is stronger because of diverse leadership voices."

U.S. Representative Ritchie Torres said, "The nomination of Hector LaSalle as Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals represents a historic breakthrough for Latino representation at the highest levels of New York State government. As the Presiding Judge of the Second Department, the most active state appellate court in the nation, Judge LaSalle is eminently qualified to lead the high court in New York State."

Senator Kevin Thomas said, "Thank you Gov. Kathy Hochul for nomination the Hon. Hector D. LaSalle as the next Chief Judge. He is exceptionally well qualified and a fellow Long Islander. He will be an asset to the bench!"

Senator Luis Sepulveda said, "I congratulate Judge Hector LaSalle on his nomination to Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. An incredibly qualified candidate with decades of experience. I also congratulate Gov. Kathy Hochul for recognizing the record and effort of Latinos represented this time by Judge LaSalle."

Senator-Elect Monica Martinez said, "Thank you Governor Kathy Hochul for nominating Judge LaSalle as Chief Judge. I'm happy to see a Latino, Long Islander and a proud Brentwood alumnus rise to the top of the court system. History in the making and wishing Judge LaSalle much success!"

Assembly Member Catalina Cruz said, "Thank you Gov. Kathy Hochul for the historic nomination of Judge Hector LaSalle to Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. I wish Judge LaSalle much success as he leads through complex legal and political times."

Brooklyn District Attorney Eric Gonzalez said, "In his 14 years on the bench and throughout his distinguished legal career in public service, Justice Hector LaSalle has established a strong record as a brilliant lawyer and a scrupulously fair and thoughtful jurist. As Presiding Justice of the Second Department, Justice LaSalle also brings extensive appellate and management experience that is especially critical as our state court system navigates the many challenges we face. It has been a privilege to call him a friend since we were classmates in law school. Similarly, Judge Edwina Richardson-Mendelson, whose work to enhance access to justice and increase equity has improved our court system, will make an excellent Administrative Judge. I applaud Governor Hochul on these outstanding choices."

Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz said, "Hector LaSalle is a brilliant jurist and proven leader. I want to congratulate the Governor and her committee for her excellent choice. I am confident that our complex judicial system is in capable hands."

Richmond County District Attorney Michael E. McMahon said, "I offer my wholehearted congratulations to Justice Hector LaSalle on his historic nomination to be our state's Chief Judge, and to Judge Edwina G. Richardson-Mendelson as our next Chief Administrative Judge. In our experience before Justice LaSalle in the Second Department, we have found him to be a fair, knowledgeable, and considerate jurist and if confirmed, expect he will bring that same approach to the Court of Appeals. Our state's highest court must remain an impartial entity who delivers justice equally to all, and I am optimistic Justice LaSalle will deliver on that mission on behalf of all New Yorkers. Similarly, I am hopeful that Judge Richardson-Mendelson will successfully guide our court system to become more efficient and effective in addressing the myriad problems that bring New Yorkers into the Unified Court System and wish her success in the nomination process and beyond. I also thank Acting Chief Judge Cannataro for his exemplary service over these last several months, and Judge Marks for his years of service as Chief Administrative Judge and his participation in bringing significant improvements to Staten Island's criminal court operations."

Bronx Borough President Vanessa L. Gibson said, "I am proud to stand by Gov. Kathy Hochul in her nomination of Hon. Hector D. LaSalle to be Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. Judge LaSalle has an impeccable reputation and I know he will protect the rights of all New Yorkers. If confirmed, Judge LaSalle will become the first Latino Chief Judge. Let's make history - again!"

Hon. Rolando T. Acosta, Presiding Justice of the New York State Supreme Court Appellate Division, First Department, said, "Governor Hochul has done an excellent job selecting Presiding Justice Hector LaSalle to be New York State's next Chief Judge after one of the most robust selection processes in recent history; and the Governor should be roundly commended for her extraordinary choice. Presiding Justice LaSalle achieved the highest cumulative ratings from the various bar associations, including the City and State Bar Associations. He has been found preeminently qualified, and the Governor agrees. I have worked closely with Presiding Justice LaSalle as Associate Justices in the Appellate Division and then as Presiding Justices of our respective Departments and as members of the Administrative Board. I know first-hand his judicial record of thoughtful and balanced decision-making and his collaborative nature. He is beloved and respected by his peers as a person of integrity who values the judiciary and its paramount obligation to dispense justice for all. And yes, if confirmed by the Senate, he would be the first Latino Chief Judge in the history of New York State - an overflowing source of pride and joy for communities of color still struggling for empowerment and equal justice. Thank you, Governor Hochul!"

Patchogue Village Trustee Lizbeth Carillo said, "Thank you Governor Hochul for nominating Judge Hector LaSalle to Chief Justice of the NYS Court of Appeals. As a Latina, I'm elated to know that Hispanics are getting recognized and moving up the ladder to occupy seats that a few years ago were perceived as unattainable. Congratulations, Judge LaSalle!"

City of Middletown Mayor Joe DeStefano said, "Judge Hector LaSalle is an excellent choice for Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals because of his decades of experience and proven track record. This is a historic nomination that will help protect the rights of New Yorkers and help them seek justice."

Suffolk County Legislator Samuel Gonzalez Jr. said, "Today Governor Hochul nominated the Honorable Hector LaSalle, a native Long Islander of Puerto Rican descent, to be the first Latino Chief Judge in NYS. This historic nomination sends a message to all our Latino and Latina aspiring lawyers that they too can achieve such milestones through dedication and hard work."

Town of Islip Councilman Jorge C. Guadrón said, "Latinos and Latinas across New York State have been making great strides in their legal careers, but nothing is more inspiring than hearing that her Honorable Governor Hochul nominated Long Island's own Honorable Hector LaSalle to be the first Latino Chief Judge in New York State. Being an immigrant and first Latino ever to be elected to the Town of Islip Council, I join my fellow Long Island community members in congratulating Justice LaSalle on this historic nomination."

Newburgh Mayor Torrance Harvey said, "Thank you Governor Hochul for nominating Judge Hector LaSalle to be Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. This barrier-breaking announcement will serve as a beacon of justice for the people of the great state of New York!"

Kingston Mayor Steve Noble said, "Judge LaSalle brings a depth of professional and personal experience to this critical role that few others can match. We applaud the Governor's decision."

Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. said, "I commend Governor Hochul for her appointment of Hector LaSalle as Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals who comes with a proven record of fairly and justly upholding our laws. Judge LaSalle is exactly what New Yorkers need and deserve in the top spot that oversees our criminal justice processes."

Rev. Al Sharpton, Founder and President of the National Action Network (NAN) said, "Governor Hochul's nomination of Hon. Hector D. LaSalle to be Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals is a clear indicator of her consistent effort to elevate diverse voices to leadership roles in our State's court system. The confirming of Judge LaSalle would make history in him being the first Latino Chief Judge, marking another significant step towards forming a more representative justice system in New York. Judge LaSalle's intention to nominate Hon. Edwina G. Richardson-Mendelson as Chief Administrative Judge, further demonstrates this ripple effect and brings a sense of fairness and integrity to protecting the rights of New Yorkers and upholding justice,"

Lymaris Albors, CEO of Acacia Network, said, "Today is an extraordinary day: Governor Hochul has nominated the first Latino Chief Judge in the history of New York State! This nomination of Presiding Judge 2nd Department to be the next chief Judge is to be applauded and celebrated. During his years on the bench, Judge LaSalle has proven himself to be a strong advocate for the rule of law and the integrity of our court system. He is a true leader who will serve our state with distinction. Judge LaSalle's record of excellence in his judicial career is second to none. Congratulations to Governor Hochul."

Alyson E. Bass, President of the Long Island Black Bar Association, said, "Amistad Long Island Black Bar Assn is pleased with the Governor's acknowledgment of the importance of diversity in the NYS Judiciary. Governor Hochul has nominated Hector LaSalle for Chief Judge and Hon Edwina Richardson-Mendelson for Chief Administrative Judge. Hon. LaSalle is a Long Island native of Puerto Rican descent and former Suffolk County prosecutor. He is currently the Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division, Second Judicial Department. Hon. Edwina Richardson-Mendelson, an African American woman, currently sits as the Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives. Both of these nominations are profoundly historic, and we look forward to their leadership."

Guillermo Chacon, President of the Latino Commission on AIDS, said, "What a terrific selection from Governor Hochul. At a time when we need the New York State Court of Appeals to lead the nation, Judge Hector LaSalle is the right person for the job. I congratulate Judge LaSalle on his nomination and look forward to seeing him approved by the Senate and seated on the Court."

Matt Cohen, President & CEO of the Long Island Association, said, "Judge Hector LaSalle has a long & distinguished career of service, fairness & integrity that demonstrates he is the ideal person to become Chief Judge of the NY Court of Appeals. A native Long Islander of Puerto Rican descent, I commend Gov. Kathy Hochul for her historic nomination."

Mariana Bravo, Hispanic National Bar Association (HNBA) President, said, "The HNBA celebrates Governor Hochul's nomination of the Honorable Justice Hector LaSalle to Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. We are always honored and proud to support qualified and diverse appointments to the judiciary, particularly at the highest levels. The HNBA thanks the Governor's office and Justice LaSalle, and we look forward to his swearing in."

Tracey Edwards, Long Island Director of the NAACP New York State Conference, said, "I applaud Governor Hochul's nomination of Judge Hector LaSalle to Chief Justice of the New York State Court of Appeals. This is a historic appointment which culminates a life committed to an unwavering advocacy for civil rights. I know firsthand because I stood shoulder to shoulder with him for many years on Long Island when we were fighting for the rights of the Latino and Black communities. Justice Lasalle understands the importance of keeping our communities safe while creating a justice system that is fair for all."

Eve Cho Guillergan, President of the Network of Bar Leaders, "I commend the governor on her historic appointment of the first Latino Chief Judge of the state as it is important to have diversity on the bench and in leadership. Judge Hector D. LaSalle has excellent experience as someone who has led one of the largest and busiest appellate courts in the nation. I look forward to seeing his future accomplishments."

Veronica Renta Irwin, President of the Long Island Hispanic Bar Association said, "The Long Island Hispanic Bar Association congratulates founding member and Past-President Hector LaSalle on his nomination to the position of Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. We also thank Governor Kathy Hochul for her selection of Judge LaSalle as a sign of her commitment to appointing qualified, diverse Judges at all levels of the Court system. LIHBA knows that Chief Judge LaSalle has the ability and experience necessary to lead and improve the New York State Court system. Judge LaSalle's nomination as the first Hispanic Chief Judge of New York's highest Court provides meaningful representation of the Latinx community and will promote equal and fair justice for all New Yorkers."

Sonia Martinez, Executive Director of the Mohawk Valley Latino Association, said: "I applaud Governor Hochul on her wisdom nominating Judge Hector LaSalle for Chief Judge. His many years as a leader in the justice system speaks volumes. His current position presiding over the busiest and largest state court showcase his abilities to move the courts forward."

Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Bob Duffy said, “I applaud Governor Hochul’s nomination of Justice Hector LaSalle to be New York’s next Chief Judge, and we should all celebrate this history making appointment of our State’s first Latino Chief Judge. As a distinguished prosecutor and public servant, Justice LaSalle has spent his career working to curb crime and make New York’s communities safer. Justice LaSalle is a dedicated jurist and a proven leader in his field – and New York will be a better place with him at the helm of the judiciary.”

Luis A. Miranda, Jr. said, "Governor Hochul has taken a bold step by making a historic nomination - a Puerto Rican jurist, Justice Hector LaSalle, as Chief Judge of the New York Court of Appeals. The Latino community in New York and throughout the country celebrates this historic achievement. The Governor's courageous choice must be matched by a quick and equally courageous State Senate confirmation."

Carlos P. Naudon, President & CEO of Ponce Bank, said, "For decades, Judge Hector LaSalle has served as one of New York State's finest jurists. It's no surprise that Governor Hochul selected him as the newest Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals -- and he will make history as the first Puerto Rican to serve in that role. Congratulations to Judge LaSalle on his nomination, to Governor Hochul for her selection, and to all New Yorkers who are lucky to have these talented public servants fighting for them."

Eugenio Russi, Executive Director, Hispanic Unidos de Buffalo, said: "New York State's highest court is set to achieve new heights now that Judge Hector LaSalle has been nominated to serve as Chief Judge. Over the course of his lengthy and distinguished tenure, Judge LaSalle has proven himself to be fair-minded, independent, and committed to the rule of law. We applaud the Governor for his nomination. We look forward to making history."

Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York Inc. said, "Thank You Governor Kathy Hochul on the appointment of the Hon. Hector D. LaSalle, Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals, Congratulations. Muchas felicidades!"

Hudson Valley Hispanic Bar Association said, "The Hudson Valley Hispanic Bar Association is thrilled by Governor Kathy Hochul's announcement this morning that she has nominated the Honorable Hector D. LaSalle to be Chief Judge of the New York State Court of Appeals. This is a historic nomination, and we commend Governor Hochul on her commitment to diversifying our judiciary."

Latino Lawyers Association of Queens County said, "It is with great pride that we hear today that the Hon. Gov. Kathy Hochul has nominated Presiding Judge of the Second Department, Hector Lasalle to fill the position of Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals. This is an excellent choice for all New Yorkers! Judge LaSalle not only has the legal gravitas to fill this position but also the administrative grounding to shepherd the Court system through its present COVID created crisis. Prior to COVID the Court system was understaffed and underfunded. Now the system faces a terrible backlog despite the heroic efforts of the State's Court staff which will take the experience of a jurist who has hands on experience. This is a great choice!! The present Court system will not work well for anyone if it is guided without the background and experience of those who have actually had to deal with the day-to-day challenges as Judge LaSalle has. Governor Hochul has by this nomination shown a clear commitment to bringing in consensus builders to serve the people of New York State. We applaud her."

Puerto Rican and Hispanic Day Parade of WNY said, "We applaud Governor Hochul's nomination of Héctor LaSalle as the next Chief Judge of the NYS Courts. As the current Presiding Judge of the busiest judicial department in the state, Judge LaSalle is well qualified and prepared to lead the NYS Court System. He is dynamic, energetic and highly regarded. We appreciate the Governor's continued support of diversity by selecting and nominating highly qualified candidates."