California Gov. Gavin Newsom Appoints First Openly Transgender Judge to Bench

 

Andi Mudryk

California Governor Gavin Newsom (D) on Friday appointed an openly transgender judge to the bench.

“Governor Gavin Newsom today announced eight judicial appointments, including Andi Mudryk – the first openly transgender individual appointed to the bench in California – who will serve as a Judge on the Sacramento County Superior Court.” – the governor’s office announced on Friday.

“I’m humbled, honored and I’m thrilled,” Mudryk told The Times. “I’m grateful to Gov. Newsom for creating a vision of California for all.”

AP reported:

A disability rights advocate will become the second openly transgender person to serve as a California judge after being appointed Friday by Gov. Gavin Newsom.

Andi Mudryk, 58, chief deputy director at the Department of Rehabilitation, will serve on the Sacramento County Superior Court.

“Andi Mudryk is a great appointment and will be a wonderful judge,” Kolakowski tweeted. “I’m glad to finally have a trans colleague on the bench in California.”

Mudryk has the distinction of being the first transgender person appointed to the California bench.

Mudryk, who has brittle bone disease, previously served as chief counsel at the Department of Rehabilitation and held various positions at several disability legal rights organizations.