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Nakamura sworn in as New Mexico Supreme Court chief justice

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Justice Judith Nakamura is the new chief justice of the New Mexico Supreme Court. She was sworn in Wednesday during a ceremony in Albuquerque after being elected by her colleagues to lead the court. She succeeds Justice Charles Daniels, who had served as chief justice since 2016. In her new role, Nakamura will preside over Supreme Court hearings and conferences. She also will serve as the administrative authority over personnel, budgetary matters and general operations of all state courts. The chief justice also acts as an advocate for the Judiciary on legislation, funding for the courts and other issues. Nakamura served for years on the Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court and in the Second Judicial District before joining the state's highest court in December 2015. Nakamura also is an avid hot air balloon pilot.