In a groundbreaking announcement, Gov. Tim Walz has chosen Natalie Hudson as the chief justice of the Minnesota Supreme Court, making her the first person of color to hold this position. Hudson, who has served as an associate justice since her appointment in 2015, will succeed Chief Justice Lorie Gildea upon her retirement in October. Highlighting Hudson's extensive experience and leadership abilities, Gov. Walz expressed confidence in her ability to promote fairness and uphold the rights of all Minnesotans. With her strong reputation as a consensus builder, Hudson is poised to advance a vision that prioritizes the dignity of citizens. Hudson's appointment does not require legislative confirmation, as is customary in Minnesota. However, judges must periodically face voters. She originally joined the high court in 2015, succeeding Justice Alan Page, who was also the first Black justice on the state Supreme Court. Expressing humility and determination, Hudson acknowledged the responsibility entrusted to her and emphasized her commitment to administering one of the nation's finest state court systems. Prior to her judicial career, Hudson practiced criminal appellate law and served as the St. Paul city attorney. She was also a member of the Minnesota Supreme Court Racial Bias Task Force. In filling Hudson's previous role, Gov. Walz appointed Karl Procaccini, his former general counsel, who brings a wealth of legal experience to the position. When Chief Justice Gildea retires, all but one of the seven justices on the Supreme Court will have been appointed by Democratic governors, with Gildea being the sole appointee of Republican Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Justice Hudson's appointment has been met with praise from her colleagues and legal professionals. Chief Justice Gildea lauded the choice, highlighting Hudson's deep legal knowledge and unparalleled work ethic. U.S. District Judge Wilhelmina Wright, the state's first Black female federal judge and a former colleague of Hudson, also commended her appointment, underscoring her intellect and respect for the rule of law. This milestone appointment in the Minnesota Supreme Court marks a significant step towards diversifying and expanding representation within the state's judicial system.