Let’s catch up on Brooklyn’s judicial election scene, where races are shifting gears now that the petitioning window for the 2026 NYC primaries has closed. The next step? Determining which contenders make the official ballot. This is where the action—and speculation—really begins.
Assemblywoman Nikki Lucas is making waves by throwing her support behind a robust slate. Her group hit the ground running, and—according to an official press release—they collected close to 6,000 signatures across Brooklyn. That kind of organizing power sets a pretty high bar, especially as the competitive landscape starts to take shape.
Lucas, who doubles as the Female District Leader for the 60th Assembly District, teamed up with her counterpart, Male District Leader Michael Rosendary. Together, they rallied their base and coordinated volunteers, setting the stage for their slate’s primary push.
“Our community really came through,” Lucas said. “Seeing Brooklynites step up to support qualified judicial candidates gives me hope for our courts and our borough’s future.”
Echoing her enthusiasm, Rosendary chimed in, “Thanks to Nikki’s leadership, we’re united in our vision for a fairer, more experienced court.”
Breaking Down the Lucas Slate
Lucas’ endorsements feature five legal minds: one for the 4th Municipal District, and four more vying for countywide Civil Court seats. Each brings a Brooklyn focus and an impressive legal resume.
Take Anthony W. Vaughn Jr.. He’s no stranger to Brooklyn’s legal circles, with over twenty years in the field and a stint as Brooklyn Bar Association President.
Anthony Vaughn at Weeksville in Crown Heights – photo by Phaats Photos / Roger Archer
“I’m honored by Assemblywoman Lucas’ support and pumped to campaign on fairness for Brooklyn,” said Vaughn.
On the borough-wide front, Danielle A. Noel is leaning into her court experience and vision for equitable results.
Danielle Noel photo by Nick Rich
“Assemblywoman Lucas’ endorsement gives me a real boost,” Noel said. “We all deserve fair treatment in court, and I want to help make that real.”
Next is Celeste E. Felix, a current Kings County Supreme Court staffer known for her expertise with complex civil matters.
Celeste Felix – photo provided by Celeste Felix for Civil Court Judge – Campaign
Felix added, “Nikki Lucas’ backing means a lot. I’m eager to bring sound judgment and experience to civil court.”
Rounding out the group, Christine G. Ortiz and Linda Lo Cascio both highlight careers steeped in civil law and a dedication to public service.
Christine Ortiz photo credit Phaats Photos Roger Archer
Ortiz said, “With Nikki’s endorsement, I’m ready to serve and bring my decade of court experience to the bench.”
Linda Lo Cascio photo provided by Linda Lo Cascio Candidate for Brooklyn Civil Court Judge
Lo Cascio echoed, “Being endorsed by Assemblywoman Lucas inspires me to do right by Brooklyn.”
Looking Forward: Certification and Next Steps
Now that petitioning is over, the Board of Elections will confirm the final ballot listings. If a candidate stands alone, they’ll head straight to November’s general election with the Democratic nod; otherwise, it’s on to June’s primary showdowns (June 23, with early voting June 13–21).
One thing’s for sure: Lucas’ slate is entering this next phase with momentum, a clear campaign message, and a focus on experience, fairness, and serving Brooklyn’s communities.
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