‘Natalie Hudson is a phenomenally talented jurist…She will serve the state of Minnesota very well’

AG Ellison hails selection of Natalie Hudson as Minnesota Supreme Court chief justice, first person of color to lead court and Minnesota’s Judicial Branch

August 23, 2023 (SAINT PAUL) — Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison today hailed Governor Tim Walz’s selection of Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Natalie E. Hudson to serve as Chief Justice. Justice Hudson will be the first person of color and the second woman to lead Minnesota’s highest court and Judicial Branch. She will succeed current Chief Justice Lorie Skjerven Gildea upon Chief Justice Gildea’s retirement on October 1. 

Among the many positions Justice Hudson has held in her long legal career is working for the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office from 1994 to 2002, primarily as a criminal appellate attorney. 

Attorney General Ellison released the following statement:

“Natalie Hudson is a phenomenally talented jurist. She commands the trust and respect of the entire judiciary. She blends kindness and professionalism with a sharp legal mind. I am certain she will serve the State of Minnesota very well. 

“I also had the honor of working with Karl Procaccini when he was the Governor’s chief counsel. We got to see how smart he is and he will also provide good service to the State.”