New York County Surrogate

What this office does

Handles wills and estates. In New York the surrogate is an elected judge who probates wills, oversees estates and minors' property, and hears adoptions. In New Jersey it is a county officer who probates wills, appoints estate administrators and guardians, and files adoptions.

Candidates

Next elections here

• 2028 presidential election · Who has filed so far, from FEC filings

Also on New York County ballots

• New York County Civil Court Judge (Countywide)
• New York County Civil Court Judge, 1st Municipal Court District
• New York County Civil Court Judge, 3rd Municipal Court District
• New York County Civil Court Judge, 4th Municipal Court District
• New York County Civil Court Judge, 7th Municipal Court District
• New York County Civil Court Judge, 9th Municipal Court District
• Supreme Court Justice, 1st Judicial District (New York County)

All New York County races and measures →

Quick answers

Who is running for New York County Surrogate in 2026?

Rita Mella (Democrat).

What does this office do?

Handles wills and estates. In New York the surrogate is an elected judge who probates wills, oversees estates and minors' property, and hears adoptions. In New Jersey it is a county officer who probates wills, appoints estate administrators and guardians, and files adoptions.

Who should I vote for in the New York County Surrogate race?

SpectrumVote doesn't endorse anyone or tell you how to vote. Compare each candidate's record, funding, outside spending and endorsements on this page, then decide based on the issues that matter most to you. Enter your address at spectrumvote.com to see this race next to everything else on your ballot.

When is the election?

The general election was Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Counts are unofficial until each state certifies its results over the following weeks; your state or county election office has the official results.