Applications sought for 5th District judgeships

The Commission on Judicial Selection has announced two vacancies in Minnesota’s 5th Judicial District. One vacancy occurred upon the death of Judge Tricia B. Zimmer. The other vacancy will occur upon the retirement of Judge Gregory J. Anderson. One seat will be chambered in Ivanhoe in Lincoln County and Marshall in Lyon County, and the other seat will be chambered in Mankato in Blue Earth County.

Per statute, the commission will consider the following qualifications for judicial office: integrity, maturity, health (if job related), judicial temperament, legal knowledge, ability, experience, and community service. The commission is seeking applicants who reflect Minnesota’s full diversity.

Individuals wishing to apply may request an application by contacting the Office of the Governor and Lieutenant Governor via email at [email protected]. Application materials are due by 4 p.m. on Aug. 6, 2026, and should be addressed to the chair of the commission, Erin Sindberg Porter. The commission expects to hold interviews in early September.

The judges of the 5th Judicial District have offered to provide informational interviews to prospective applicants.