Hobbs Appoints Maria Elena Cruz as Trailblazing 1st Latina & Black Justice on Arizona Supreme Court

Governor Katie Hobbs announced on Wednesday the historic appointment of Judge Maria Elena Cruz to the Arizona Supreme Court, marking a significant milestone as she becomes the first Latina and first Black justice in the state’s history.

“Why should the courts not reflect the population?” Cruz posed during the press conference, highlighting her commitment to diversity within the judiciary.

A Yuma County Democrat, Cruz has served as a judge in Arizona since 2005, first as a superior court judge and more recently on the Arizona Court of Appeals since 2017. Her nomination received widespread bipartisan support, including a unanimous recommendation from the judicial screening panel. Cruz attributes this backing to her efforts in community service across party lines.

“I think it’s just an expression of peoples’ confidence in the work that I have done,” she stated, reinforcing her non-partisan approach throughout her career.

This appointment is particularly noteworthy as Hobbs represents the first Democratic governor to fill a vacancy on the Arizona Supreme Court in over a decade. Cruz will succeed Republican Robert Brutinel, who retired after 14 years on the bench.

Current justices include those appointed by former Governor Doug Ducey, who expanded the court’s size during his tenure. Cruz’s appointment adds a new dimension to the court, especially with her comprehensive judicial experience.

During her remarks, Cruz emphasized her extensive 20 years of judicial experience, including her work in multiple court systems, and mentioned her ongoing role in overseeing a restitution court she established in Yuma.

“I will do the work of applying the law fairly, but I will also do so while acknowledging that access to justice is limited,” Cruz remarked, underlining her dedication to addressing barriers faced by marginalized populations in accessing legal resources.

Governor Hobbs praised Cruz’s diligent service to Arizona and her commitment to mentorship within the legal community. “Judge Cruz is eminently qualified and will give a voice to working-class people in every corner of our state,” Hobbs remarked.

Cruz’s journey began when she moved to Arizona from Puerto Rico at age 14. With no knowledge of English, she ultimately earned a law degree from the University of Arizona and has become a respected figure in Yuma over her 30 years of residency.

Expressing her gratitude, Cruz stated, “I’m humbled that you have placed your confidence and trust in me,” as she prepared to take on her new responsibilities.

Chief Justice Ann Timmer commended Cruz for her analytical skills and perspective on rural issues, emphasizing the importance of equitable access to justice for all Arizonans.

Cruz celebrated the announcement in the company of her family, reflecting on her path from a litigator to a judge free from partisan pressures. “A true, honest judge is going to look at the law openly and fairly,” she concluded, reaffirming her commitment to impartiality on the bench.