If Governor Newsom does not make an appointment for retired Judge Hinrich's seat by the nomination date for the June 2026 election; Humboldt Superior Court Commissioner Sarah Kaber will run for that seat

 

I just did this post yesterday on Humboldt judicial positions for the June 2026 election.

https://johnchiv.blogspot.com/2025/11/four-humboldt-superior-court-positions.html?m=1

Just now, I received this from Humboldt Superior Court Commissioner Sarah Kaber. As I have reported previously, Commissioner Kaber was one of three original candidates in consideration for appointment by California Gavin Newsom.  I also contacted Governor Newsom's office of judicial appointments and they said they would let me know when a decision is made.

I just received this message from Commissioner Kaber.

"John,

At this time Governor Newsom can still appoint someone to fill the seat left vacant by Judge Hinrichs’ retirement. A gubernatorial appointment would remove that seat from the 2026 election ballot. If no appointment is made by the nomination date I will be running for the seat in the 2026 election. 

Sarah Kaber"

I have been privately told by others in the know in the legal community that Commissioner Kaber has the support of Humboldt Superior Court Presiding Judge Kelly Neel. I reported previously that staff and bailiffs have only good things to say about Commissioner Kaber. When there were only 3 original candidates being considered for appointment, I said Commissioner Kaber was the obvious choice based on my observations about her rulings and watching her in court. I do not know if there will be other candidates for that seat but I am sure some other people are mulling their options.