FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the ï in Gaïtas, and how is it pronounced?

The ï is called a diaresis, and it’s a common Greek character. Gaïtas is pronounced guy-EE-tas. It is a Greek name that originated on the island of Zakynthos.

How can I vote for Justice Gaïtas?

Justice Gaïtas will be on the ballot for the general election in November 2026. Minnesota judges are on the second side of the ballot. To vote for Justice Gaïtas, you will need to flip your ballot and look for the Supreme Court races, which will be at the top.

Why does Justice Gaïtas have to stand for election?

In Minnesota, every judge who is appointed by a governor must stand for election in the first general election after the judge has served for one year. Thereafter, the judge must stand for election every six years. The 2026 election is the first general election that falls at least one year after Justice Gaïtas was appointed in 2024.

Do all Minnesota judges have to stand for election?

Yes, all Minnesota state court judges must stand for election every six years. This is in contrast to federal judges, who are appointed to lifetime terms.

How can I learn more about the judicial races on the ballot?

You can find out who will be on the ballot—including judges—by visiting the Secretary of State’s website. Then, you can research the candidates who have websites or social media accounts. The Minnesota State Bar Association does a poll of lawyers before the election called a “plebiscite,” and it posts the results on its website. The plebiscite is a good way to find out what lawyers think about each of the candidates.