Minnesota's Supreme Court welcomed its newest member as Theodora Gaïtas formally took her oath of office in a public ceremony.
According to Pioneer Press, this inauguration at the Minnesota History Center in St. Paul on Monday marked Gaïtas' official introduction to the state's highest court.
Gaïtas had already begun her duties on August 1 following a private swearing-in. Gaïtas expressed her gratitude and commitment to her new role during the ceremony. Governor Tim Walz, who appointed Gaïtas to the position, took time away from his vice-presidential campaign duties to attend the event and voice his confidence in the new justice.
Governor Walz, who is currently campaigning as the running mate for Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, spoke highly of Gaïtas at the ceremony. He emphasized his belief in her suitability for the position and the positive impact she would have on the court and the state.
Gaïtas' appointment to the Supreme Court is part of a larger shift in the court's composition. She and Sarah Hennesy were both appointed by Walz in April to replace retiring justices Margaret Chutich and G. Barry Anderson.
This marks the third and fourth appointments Walz has made to the high court during his tenure as governor. The remaining three members of the court were appointed by Walz's predecessor, Democratic Governor Mark Dayton.
Prior to her Supreme Court appointment, Gaïtas served on the Minnesota Court of Appeals. Her legal career also includes time as a judge in the Hennepin County District Court, where she presided over felony cases in the criminal division.
Gaïtas' background extends beyond the bench. She is a graduate of the University of Minnesota Law School and has experience working in private practice as an attorney. Additionally, she has served as an appellate public defender.
This diverse legal background is expected to bring a well-rounded perspective to the Supreme Court. Gaïtas' experience in various aspects of the legal system may inform her approach to cases and contribute to the court's overall jurisprudence.
While Gaïtas has been serving on the Supreme Court since August, Monday's ceremony provided a formal and public introduction to her new role. The event allowed for official recognition of her appointment and gave Gaïtas an opportunity to address those in attendance.
During the ceremony, Gaïtas spoke about her commitment to serving the people of Minnesota in her new capacity. She also took the time to thank Governor Walz and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan for the opportunity to serve on the state's highest court.
The public nature of the ceremony also allowed for transparency in the judicial appointment process, giving Minnesotans a chance to witness this important transition in their state's judiciary.
In conclusion, Theodora Gaïtas' formal oath-taking ceremony marked a significant moment for Minnesota's Supreme Court. The event showcased the state's newest justice, highlighted her qualifications, and allowed for public recognition of her appointment. With her diverse legal background and the confidence of the governor, Gaïtas begins her tenure on the Supreme Court poised to contribute to Minnesota's judicial landscape.
