State Senator Brad Hoylman, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and the only LGBT person in the state Senate said: "I'm delighted that Governor Cuomo has nominated Ellen Gesmer and Marcy Kahn to the Appellate Division. These two women are exceptionally qualified and able candidates with outstanding records as jurists. I'm particularly proud and grateful that these fine nominees include both a constituent of mine and a member of New York’s LGBT community. Given the Governor’s long record fighting for LGBT rights, it seems fitting that he appoint a judge who understands the unique experience of LGBT people and appreciates how the law may shape our lives."