This is video of a speech Gov. Bill Richardson gave today during the swearing-in ceremony. It’s about six minutes long, so give it a couple of minutes to load.
Newly appointed district judges Fernando Macias and Lisa Schultz, both fighting election battles to keep their jobs past December, were sworn in Thursday.
Hundreds were in attendance at the Third Judicial District Court in
In some ways, the event had the feel of a Richardson-for-president or Chavez-for-governor rally, as many spoke fondly of the two, who received several rounds of applause from the group. In speeches, others predicted bright futures for both men.
Chavez was in attendance because he is a close friend of Macias. The two went to college together, Chavez said.
“I have to confess, governor, I didn’t tell you when I called you, but I know all the reasons why Fernando can’t be a judge,” Chavez said.
In reality, he said, Macias will make an excellent judge.
“He is a quintessential New Mexican, and I can’t think of a finer person you could have appointed,” Chavez said.
Macias was sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Edward Chavez. Schultz was sworn in by Justice Petra Maes.
“Lisa has a very impressive background,” Maes said. “You will do a wonderful job.”
Schultz thanked many mentors and others for inspiring her, and also thanked her female partner of 31 years, who Schultz described as “my heart.”
“Tu es mi vida,” Schultz said.
Macias thanked his wife and mentors, and also Mayor Chavez for coming to
“This is another individual who is going to put
Richardson and Schultz both recognized former Judge Silvia Cano-Garcia, who Schultz is replacing. Cano-Garcia recently died after a long battle with cancer.
“Her compassion as a driving force in this court provides big shoes and a big path for me to walk in,” Schultz said. “I will do my best to try to fill those shoes and walk that path.”
Democrat Macias faces Republican Rita Nuñez-Neumann on Nov. 7. Democrat Schultz faces Republican Janetta Hicks, who was in attendance at Thursday’s ceremony.