Hector LaSalle

New York has not had a chief judge for more than half a year, and it could be a bit longer before a new one is in place.

New York is not likely to have a new chief judge until later this spring, after the state Senate rejected Governor Kathy Hochul's first choice for the job.

The issue is still simmering as the governor and Legislature engage in their biggest task of the year, agreeing on a $227 billion dollar state budget.

In a full floor vote, the New York State Senate rejected Gov. Kathy Hochul’s choice for the state’s chief judge, 39-20. This marks the first time in recent history that the Senate rejected a governor’s nominee for chief judge.

Senate Minority Leader Robert Ortt and other Republicans are filing a suit to stop Hector LaSalle from being appointed as chief judge in New York.

Gov. Kathy Hochul says she won't rush to take action in her dispute with the Senate over her chief judge nominee.

Governor Kathy Hochul's Chief Judge nominee doesn't have the votes and the City of Syracuse is grappling with the death of a young girl due to gun violence. Read more of the WAER News Round-Up to catch up on the week's news.

The vote is seen as a political blow to Gov. Kathy Hochul, who nominated LaSalle. Hochul is calling for another vote on the senate floor.

Hector LaSalle would be the first Latino chief judge in New York, but he currently does not have the votes among Democrats to be confirmed.

The state Senate Judiciary Committee will hold a hearing Wednesday on Governor Kathy Hochul’s nominee for the next chief judge, Hector LaSalle.