Irish American jurist Des Lyons is on course for election to the New York State Supreme Court this fall.
Last week, the senior Irish American legal figure won the Democratic nomination for New York State Supreme Court Justice in the 9th Judicial District. All five counties in the 9th JD — Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess and Orange — boast strong Irish communities.
With Democrats significantly outnumbering Republicans in the 9th Judicial District, Lyons, barring an upset, should be returned this November.
At the November 2022 judicial election in the district, all seven Democrat candidates were returned to fill the seven vacancies on the court.
He has held positions as judge and magistrate since 2010.
"Over the course of my career as a lawyer and judge— and in my life — I've been proud to carry forward the values my parents brought to this country — hard work, fairness, compassion, humility and an unwavering commitment to justice for all," Lyons told the Irish Echo. "I carry their spirit with me as I look to serve the people of New York with integrity and dedication."
Lyons' campaign team have been urging a strong turnout for the election.
“It's essential that we elect judges who will ensure our courts remain independent and serve every family, every worker, every person across the five counties of the 9th Judicial District. But nominations don't win elections - votes do," said a campaign spokesperson.
Added Lyons: "I need every member of our community to turn out this November, because when we stand together, we win together."
