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The Michigan Progressive Voters Guide compiles the information that allows you to make informed decisions about races on your ballot, based on your values.
Statewide
This year Michigan voters will elect a governor and we recommend re-electing Governor Gretchen Whitmer. In her four years as Michigan’s governor, Gov. Whitmer has repeatedly proven herself as a fierce advocate for people across the state.
Despite continued efforts by the Republican-controlled legislature to derail her efforts, Gov. Whitmer has done her part to move the state forward, working with the GOP when it was possible and wielding her veto pen to stop bad bills when it was necessary.
With Roe v. Wade overturned, Gov. Whitmer has taken swift, decisive action to prevent enforcement of the state’s pre-Roe abortion ban. She has fought for abortion access throughout her career and consistently opposed efforts to restrict reproductive freedom. Right now, she’s one of the only things standing in the way of efforts by Michigan Republicans to further attack access to reproductive health care.
Under Gov. Whitmer’s leadership, the state has taken significant strides forward in public education. She took the lead on a historic budget that made the largest K-12 investment in state history, made the funding system more equal, and expanded multiple programs designed to support students and educators. She’s also worked to expand community college and job training programs to working folks across the state.
Of course, with Republicans in control of the legislature, Gov. Whitmer’s ability to pass progressive legislation has been limited—but she’s made use of her executive powers to stop bad bills passed by the GOP. The bills Gov. Whitmer has stopped include multiple anti-voter laws, a DeVos-backed school voucher scheme, and a tax plan that would benefit the wealthy at the expense of working people.
Whitmer’s running mate is Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. Lt. Gov. Gilchrist studied computer engineering and computer science at the University of Michigan before moving on to a career as a software engineer at Microsoft. Before becoming lieutenant governor, Gilchrist was a community organizer and worked in local government. As Lt. Gov., he has spearheaded campaigns for criminal justice reform, access to community college and job training programs, and efforts to improve Michigan’s cities.
The Whitmer Gilchrist ticket is endorsed by eight of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Gov. Whitmer’s opponent is Tudor Dixon, a Trump-endorsed, DeVos funded MAGA Republican who believes abortion should be banned with no exceptions for rape, incest, or health of the mother. She has participated in spreading election disinformation and attacked efforts to teach honest accounts of U.S. history in schools and make classrooms more inclusive for LGBTQ+ kids. Tudor is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan. Dixon’s running mate is former state representative Shane Hernandez, who was named the most conservative member of the House in 2017 by MIRS News Service.
The Gov. Whitmer L.G. Gilchrist ticket is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://gretchenwhitmer.com/
This year Michigan voters will elect a governor and we recommend re-electing Governor Gretchen Whitmer. In her four years as Michigan’s governor, Gov. Whitmer has repeatedly proven herself as a fierce advocate for people across the state.
Despite continued efforts by the Republican-controlled legislature to derail her efforts, Gov. Whitmer has done her part to move the state forward, working with the GOP when it was possible and wielding her veto pen to stop bad bills when it was necessary.
With Roe v. Wade overturned, Gov. Whitmer has taken swift, decisive action to prevent enforcement of the state’s pre-Roe abortion ban. She has fought for abortion access throughout her career and consistently opposed efforts to restrict reproductive freedom. Right now, she’s one of the only things standing in the way of efforts by Michigan Republicans to further attack access to reproductive health care.
Under Gov. Whitmer’s leadership, the state has taken significant strides forward in public education. She took the lead on a historic budget that made the largest K-12 investment in state history, made the funding system more equal, and expanded multiple programs designed to support students and educators. She’s also worked to expand community college and job training programs to working folks across the state.
Of course, with Republicans in control of the legislature, Gov. Whitmer’s ability to pass progressive legislation has been limited—but she’s made use of her executive powers to stop bad bills passed by the GOP. The bills Gov. Whitmer has stopped include multiple anti-voter laws, a DeVos-backed school voucher scheme, and a tax plan that would benefit the wealthy at the expense of working people.
Whitmer’s running mate is Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II. Lt. Gov. Gilchrist studied computer engineering and computer science at the University of Michigan before moving on to a career as a software engineer at Microsoft. Before becoming lieutenant governor, Gilchrist was a community organizer and worked in local government. As Lt. Gov., he has spearheaded campaigns for criminal justice reform, access to community college and job training programs, and efforts to improve Michigan’s cities.
The Whitmer Gilchrist ticket is endorsed by eight of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Gov. Whitmer’s opponent is Tudor Dixon, a Trump-endorsed, DeVos funded MAGA Republican who believes abortion should be banned with no exceptions for rape, incest, or health of the mother. She has participated in spreading election disinformation and attacked efforts to teach honest accounts of U.S. history in schools and make classrooms more inclusive for LGBTQ+ kids. Tudor is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan. Dixon’s running mate is former state representative Shane Hernandez, who was named the most conservative member of the House in 2017 by MIRS News Service.
The Gov. Whitmer L.G. Gilchrist ticket is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://gretchenwhitmer.com/
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson knows how critical her office is to defending our democracy and ensuring voters can make their voices heard—she even wrote a book about it before she was elected.
Now, she’s using her expertise to keep our elections secure, efficient, and accessible. Under her leadership, Michiganders turned out in record numbers in the 2020 election despite a pandemic and rampant disinformation, and audits and court cases have proven time and time again that this election was the most secure in our state’s history.
Since then, Secretary Benson has worked to combat lies and conspiracy theories about Michigan’s election systems. Despite repeated attacks and threats from MAGA Republicans, she has refused to back down from the fight to preserve democracy in Michigan. She’s also pushed back against restrictive anti-voter laws and worked to ensure clerks have the resources they need to keep running efficient elections.
She’s also reworked how the Secretary of State’s office handles common transactions like updating vehicle registration. By expanding online services and self-serve kiosks and updating systems and processes for making an appointment, she’s cut down on wait times and made running our errands more convenient than ever.
Secretary Benson is endorsed by eight of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Secretary Benson’s opponent is Kristina Karamo, a Trump-endorsed, MAGA extremist and QAnon supporter who has repeatedly spread lies about Michigan elections, as well as dangerous antisemitic conspiracy theories and inflammatory rhetoric about the LGBTQ+ community. Karamo also opposes abortion and has said the practice of yoga, amongst other things, is satanic. Karamo is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://votebenson.com/
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson knows how critical her office is to defending our democracy and ensuring voters can make their voices heard—she even wrote a book about it before she was elected.
Now, she’s using her expertise to keep our elections secure, efficient, and accessible. Under her leadership, Michiganders turned out in record numbers in the 2020 election despite a pandemic and rampant disinformation, and audits and court cases have proven time and time again that this election was the most secure in our state’s history.
Since then, Secretary Benson has worked to combat lies and conspiracy theories about Michigan’s election systems. Despite repeated attacks and threats from MAGA Republicans, she has refused to back down from the fight to preserve democracy in Michigan. She’s also pushed back against restrictive anti-voter laws and worked to ensure clerks have the resources they need to keep running efficient elections.
She’s also reworked how the Secretary of State’s office handles common transactions like updating vehicle registration. By expanding online services and self-serve kiosks and updating systems and processes for making an appointment, she’s cut down on wait times and made running our errands more convenient than ever.
Secretary Benson is endorsed by eight of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Secretary Benson’s opponent is Kristina Karamo, a Trump-endorsed, MAGA extremist and QAnon supporter who has repeatedly spread lies about Michigan elections, as well as dangerous antisemitic conspiracy theories and inflammatory rhetoric about the LGBTQ+ community. Karamo also opposes abortion and has said the practice of yoga, amongst other things, is satanic. Karamo is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://votebenson.com/
This year Michigan voters will elect an attorney general and we recommend re-electing Attorney General Dana Nessel.
From the start, AG Nessel has been an advocate for the environment and public health. She’s successfully sued several of the big corporations responsible for polluting our water with toxic PFAS chemicals and ensured they’re held accountable for the messes they’ve made. She has gone toe-to-toe with fossil fuel giant Enbridge and fought to shut down the dangerous Line 5 oil pipeline to protect our Great Lakes.
Her corporate accountability efforts go beyond polluters. In response to rampant wage theft, AG Nessel created a payroll fraud unit to ensure employees are not robbed of their paychecks. She’s also held big pharma companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis.
She’s also worked to prevent abuse and hold abusers accountable. From investigating sexual abuse in the Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts, to working proactively to prevent elder abuse, she’s been a consistent voice for our most vulnerable.
When MAGA Republicans tried to intimidate voters and subvert the will of the people, AG Nessel took immediate action to combat disinformation and make sure these bad actors faced consequences for their actions.
AG Nessel is endorsed by seven of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
AG Nessel’s opponent Matthew DePerno is a Trump-endorsed MAGA extremist who worked to undermine the will of voters in the 2020 election and was fired from a law firm for a pattern of dishonesty and fraud. He wants to ban abortion in all cases, with no exceptions for rape, incest, or the life of the mother and has suggested he would go even further, potentially banning contraception as well. DePerno is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Attorney General Dana Nessel is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn More: https://www.dananessel.com/
This year Michigan voters will elect an attorney general and we recommend re-electing Attorney General Dana Nessel.
From the start, AG Nessel has been an advocate for the environment and public health. She’s successfully sued several of the big corporations responsible for polluting our water with toxic PFAS chemicals and ensured they’re held accountable for the messes they’ve made. She has gone toe-to-toe with fossil fuel giant Enbridge and fought to shut down the dangerous Line 5 oil pipeline to protect our Great Lakes.
Her corporate accountability efforts go beyond polluters. In response to rampant wage theft, AG Nessel created a payroll fraud unit to ensure employees are not robbed of their paychecks. She’s also held big pharma companies accountable for their role in the opioid crisis.
She’s also worked to prevent abuse and hold abusers accountable. From investigating sexual abuse in the Catholic Church and the Boy Scouts, to working proactively to prevent elder abuse, she’s been a consistent voice for our most vulnerable.
When MAGA Republicans tried to intimidate voters and subvert the will of the people, AG Nessel took immediate action to combat disinformation and make sure these bad actors faced consequences for their actions.
AG Nessel is endorsed by seven of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
AG Nessel’s opponent Matthew DePerno is a Trump-endorsed MAGA extremist who worked to undermine the will of voters in the 2020 election and was fired from a law firm for a pattern of dishonesty and fraud. He wants to ban abortion in all cases, with no exceptions for rape, incest, or the life of the mother and has suggested he would go even further, potentially banning contraception as well. DePerno is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Attorney General Dana Nessel is the progressive choice in this race.
Learn More: https://www.dananessel.com/
Other Statewide
Two seats on the Michigan Board of Education are up for election this year. We recommend Democratic candidates Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson as the progressive choices in this race.
Dr. Pamela Pugh is an experienced leader who has proven herself willing to show up for Michigan students and educators. Dr. Pugh has dedicated her career to promoting public health and ensuring kids across the state grow up in safe communities where they can thrive. As a member of the school board, she’s continued to pursue those goals, being a consistent voice for safe and honest education for all.
Over the past eight years, Dr. Pugh has worked to address systemic inequities that affect BIPOC children and other marginalized people in the public school system. Despite relentless attacks from MAGA extremists who want to stifle honest education, Dr. Pugh has consistently advocated for safe, inclusive classrooms where students can learn an accurate account of American history and current events.
Mitchell Robinson says he’s running for the Board of Education this year because he feels a need to push back against misinformation and right-wing attacks on honesty in education. He has been an educator for more than 40 years, teaching students from kindergarten to doctoral programs.
Robinson’s policy platform is focused on providing all kids with an honest, well-rounded education that will set them up for success. He also believes we must do more to support educators and improve retention, and address issues like child poverty that hold students back in the classroom.
Both Dr. Pugh and Robinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Tami Carlone and Linda Lee Tarver, both of whom have built their platforms on attacking honest education about history and making classrooms less safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students and educators.
Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.mitchellrobinsonforstateschoolboard.org/
https://pamelalpugh.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Board of Education are up for election this year. We recommend Democratic candidates Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson as the progressive choices in this race.
Dr. Pamela Pugh is an experienced leader who has proven herself willing to show up for Michigan students and educators. Dr. Pugh has dedicated her career to promoting public health and ensuring kids across the state grow up in safe communities where they can thrive. As a member of the school board, she’s continued to pursue those goals, being a consistent voice for safe and honest education for all.
Over the past eight years, Dr. Pugh has worked to address systemic inequities that affect BIPOC children and other marginalized people in the public school system. Despite relentless attacks from MAGA extremists who want to stifle honest education, Dr. Pugh has consistently advocated for safe, inclusive classrooms where students can learn an accurate account of American history and current events.
Mitchell Robinson says he’s running for the Board of Education this year because he feels a need to push back against misinformation and right-wing attacks on honesty in education. He has been an educator for more than 40 years, teaching students from kindergarten to doctoral programs.
Robinson’s policy platform is focused on providing all kids with an honest, well-rounded education that will set them up for success. He also believes we must do more to support educators and improve retention, and address issues like child poverty that hold students back in the classroom.
Both Dr. Pugh and Robinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Tami Carlone and Linda Lee Tarver, both of whom have built their platforms on attacking honest education about history and making classrooms less safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students and educators.
Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.mitchellrobinsonforstateschoolboard.org/
https://pamelalpugh.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Board of Education are up for election this year. We recommend Democratic candidates Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson as the progressive choices in this race.
Dr. Pamela Pugh is an experienced leader who has proven herself willing to show up for Michigan students and educators. Dr. Pugh has dedicated her career to promoting public health and ensuring kids across the state grow up in safe communities where they can thrive. As a member of the school board, she’s continued to pursue those goals, being a consistent voice for safe and honest education for all.
Over the past eight years, Dr. Pugh has worked to address systemic inequities that affect BIPOC children and other marginalized people in the public school system. Despite relentless attacks from MAGA extremists who want to stifle honest education, Dr. Pugh has consistently advocated for safe, inclusive classrooms where students can learn an accurate account of American history and current events.
Mitchell Robinson says he’s running for the Board of Education this year because he feels a need to push back against misinformation and right-wing attacks on honesty in education. He has been an educator for more than 40 years, teaching students from kindergarten to doctoral programs.
Robinson’s policy platform is focused on providing all kids with an honest, well-rounded education that will set them up for success. He also believes we must do more to support educators and improve retention, and address issues like child poverty that hold students back in the classroom.
Both Dr. Pugh and Robinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Tami Carlone and Linda Lee Tarver, both of whom have built their platforms on attacking honest education about history and making classrooms less safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students and educators.
Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.mitchellrobinsonforstateschoolboard.org/
https://pamelalpugh.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Board of Education are up for election this year. We recommend Democratic candidates Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson as the progressive choices in this race.
Dr. Pamela Pugh is an experienced leader who has proven herself willing to show up for Michigan students and educators. Dr. Pugh has dedicated her career to promoting public health and ensuring kids across the state grow up in safe communities where they can thrive. As a member of the school board, she’s continued to pursue those goals, being a consistent voice for safe and honest education for all.
Over the past eight years, Dr. Pugh has worked to address systemic inequities that affect BIPOC children and other marginalized people in the public school system. Despite relentless attacks from MAGA extremists who want to stifle honest education, Dr. Pugh has consistently advocated for safe, inclusive classrooms where students can learn an accurate account of American history and current events.
Mitchell Robinson says he’s running for the Board of Education this year because he feels a need to push back against misinformation and right-wing attacks on honesty in education. He has been an educator for more than 40 years, teaching students from kindergarten to doctoral programs.
Robinson’s policy platform is focused on providing all kids with an honest, well-rounded education that will set them up for success. He also believes we must do more to support educators and improve retention, and address issues like child poverty that hold students back in the classroom.
Both Dr. Pugh and Robinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Tami Carlone and Linda Lee Tarver, both of whom have built their platforms on attacking honest education about history and making classrooms less safe and inclusive for LGBTQ+ students and educators.
Dr. Pamela Pugh and Mitchell Robinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.mitchellrobinsonforstateschoolboard.org/
https://pamelalpugh.com/
Two seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents are up for grabs in this election, and we recommend Democratic candidates Michael Behm and Katherine White.
Regent Michael Behm is a personal injury lawyer who has served on the board since 2014. His priorities for U of M include affordability, accountability, accessibility, and climate action. During his time on the board, he has been a vocal supporter of increasing the minimum wage for U of M employees to $15 and has consistently advocated for pro-climate changes on campus.
Regent Katherine White is an experienced lawyer and law professor at U of M and was elected to the board in 1998, then re-elected in 2006 and 2014. One of her main priorities as regent is to build more relationships between the university and the broader community, a goal she has pursued for more than 20 years. She is also concerned about ensuring U of M provides a quality education while remaining affordable and accessible.
The Republican candidates in this race are Lena Epstein and Sevag Vartanian. Epstein and Vartanian’s views on teaching accurate history and Epstein’s views on coronavirus are rooted in right-wing disinformation and conspiracy theories.
Behm and White are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association and are the progressive choices in this race.
Two seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents are up for grabs in this election, and we recommend Democratic candidates Michael Behm and Katherine White.
Regent Michael Behm is a personal injury lawyer who has served on the board since 2014. His priorities for U of M include affordability, accountability, accessibility, and climate action. During his time on the board, he has been a vocal supporter of increasing the minimum wage for U of M employees to $15 and has consistently advocated for pro-climate changes on campus.
Regent Katherine White is an experienced lawyer and law professor at U of M and was elected to the board in 1998, then re-elected in 2006 and 2014. One of her main priorities as regent is to build more relationships between the university and the broader community, a goal she has pursued for more than 20 years. She is also concerned about ensuring U of M provides a quality education while remaining affordable and accessible.
The Republican candidates in this race are Lena Epstein and Sevag Vartanian. Epstein and Vartanian’s views on teaching accurate history and Epstein’s views on coronavirus are rooted in right-wing disinformation and conspiracy theories.
Behm and White are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association and are the progressive choices in this race.
Two seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents are up for grabs in this election, and we recommend Democratic candidates Michael Behm and Katherine White.
Regent Michael Behm is a personal injury lawyer who has served on the board since 2014. His priorities for U of M include affordability, accountability, accessibility, and climate action. During his time on the board, he has been a vocal supporter of increasing the minimum wage for U of M employees to $15 and has consistently advocated for pro-climate changes on campus.
Regent Katherine White is an experienced lawyer and law professor at U of M and was elected to the board in 1998, then re-elected in 2006 and 2014. One of her main priorities as regent is to build more relationships between the university and the broader community, a goal she has pursued for more than 20 years. She is also concerned about ensuring U of M provides a quality education while remaining affordable and accessible.
The Republican candidates in this race are Lena Epstein and Sevag Vartanian. Epstein and Vartanian’s views on teaching accurate history and Epstein’s views on coronavirus are rooted in right-wing disinformation and conspiracy theories.
Behm and White are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association and are the progressive choices in this race.
Two seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents are up for grabs in this election, and we recommend Democratic candidates Michael Behm and Katherine White.
Regent Michael Behm is a personal injury lawyer who has served on the board since 2014. His priorities for U of M include affordability, accountability, accessibility, and climate action. During his time on the board, he has been a vocal supporter of increasing the minimum wage for U of M employees to $15 and has consistently advocated for pro-climate changes on campus.
Regent Katherine White is an experienced lawyer and law professor at U of M and was elected to the board in 1998, then re-elected in 2006 and 2014. One of her main priorities as regent is to build more relationships between the university and the broader community, a goal she has pursued for more than 20 years. She is also concerned about ensuring U of M provides a quality education while remaining affordable and accessible.
The Republican candidates in this race are Lena Epstein and Sevag Vartanian. Epstein and Vartanian’s views on teaching accurate history and Epstein’s views on coronavirus are rooted in right-wing disinformation and conspiracy theories.
Behm and White are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association and are the progressive choices in this race.
Voters will elect two candidates to the MSU Board of Trustees this year, and we recommend Democratic candidates Renee Knake Jefferson and Dennis Denno.
Renee Knake Jefferson is currently serving on the Board of Trustees after being appointed for a partial term in 2019. Her main priority on the board is transparency and she believes honesty and accountability are the best way for MSU to continue to move forward. Jefferson also wants to ensure tuition is affordable and work to develop stronger partnerships between the university and community stakeholders.
Dennis Denno says he is running because he views the Board of Trustees as a necessary check on the university president. After the impact past scandals have had on the MSU community, he plans to prioritize transparency and accountability. Denno also plans to increase the minimum wage for MSU employees.
Knake Jefferson and Denno are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Mike Balow and Dr. Travis Menge.
Denno and Jefferson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://reneeknake.com/
https://dennisdenno.com/
Voters will elect two candidates to the MSU Board of Trustees this year, and we recommend Democratic candidates Renee Knake Jefferson and Dennis Denno.
Renee Knake Jefferson is currently serving on the Board of Trustees after being appointed for a partial term in 2019. Her main priority on the board is transparency and she believes honesty and accountability are the best way for MSU to continue to move forward. Jefferson also wants to ensure tuition is affordable and work to develop stronger partnerships between the university and community stakeholders.
Dennis Denno says he is running because he views the Board of Trustees as a necessary check on the university president. After the impact past scandals have had on the MSU community, he plans to prioritize transparency and accountability. Denno also plans to increase the minimum wage for MSU employees.
Knake Jefferson and Denno are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Mike Balow and Dr. Travis Menge.
Denno and Jefferson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://reneeknake.com/
https://dennisdenno.com/
Voters will elect two candidates to the MSU Board of Trustees this year, and we recommend Democratic candidates Renee Knake Jefferson and Dennis Denno.
Renee Knake Jefferson is currently serving on the Board of Trustees after being appointed for a partial term in 2019. Her main priority on the board is transparency and she believes honesty and accountability are the best way for MSU to continue to move forward. Jefferson also wants to ensure tuition is affordable and work to develop stronger partnerships between the university and community stakeholders.
Dennis Denno says he is running because he views the Board of Trustees as a necessary check on the university president. After the impact past scandals have had on the MSU community, he plans to prioritize transparency and accountability. Denno also plans to increase the minimum wage for MSU employees.
Knake Jefferson and Denno are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Mike Balow and Dr. Travis Menge.
Denno and Jefferson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://reneeknake.com/
https://dennisdenno.com/
Voters will elect two candidates to the MSU Board of Trustees this year, and we recommend Democratic candidates Renee Knake Jefferson and Dennis Denno.
Renee Knake Jefferson is currently serving on the Board of Trustees after being appointed for a partial term in 2019. Her main priority on the board is transparency and she believes honesty and accountability are the best way for MSU to continue to move forward. Jefferson also wants to ensure tuition is affordable and work to develop stronger partnerships between the university and community stakeholders.
Dennis Denno says he is running because he views the Board of Trustees as a necessary check on the university president. After the impact past scandals have had on the MSU community, he plans to prioritize transparency and accountability. Denno also plans to increase the minimum wage for MSU employees.
Knake Jefferson and Denno are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
The two Republican candidates in this race are Mike Balow and Dr. Travis Menge.
Denno and Jefferson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://reneeknake.com/
https://dennisdenno.com/
Voters will elect two members of the Wayne State University Board of Governors this November, and we recommend Democratic candidates Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson.
Current board member Marilyn Kelly is a native Detroiter and Wayne State University alum and professor who has extensive experience in public service. A former Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, Kelly has also served on the Court of Appeals and was president of the Michigan Board of Education. Throughout her career, she has worked to promote justice and equality for all.
Danielle Atkinson is a lifelong advocate for working families and the founder of Mothering Justice, an organization dedicated to ensuring mothers of color are represented in the political process and their concerns are part of policy decisions. Atkinson plans to continue her work to create stronger, more equitable communities as part of the Wayne State University Board of Governors.
Kelly and Atkinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Craig Wilsher and Christa Murphy are the Republican candidates in this race.
Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.votemarilynkelly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AtkinsonforWayneState
Voters will elect two members of the Wayne State University Board of Governors this November, and we recommend Democratic candidates Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson.
Current board member Marilyn Kelly is a native Detroiter and Wayne State University alum and professor who has extensive experience in public service. A former Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, Kelly has also served on the Court of Appeals and was president of the Michigan Board of Education. Throughout her career, she has worked to promote justice and equality for all.
Danielle Atkinson is a lifelong advocate for working families and the founder of Mothering Justice, an organization dedicated to ensuring mothers of color are represented in the political process and their concerns are part of policy decisions. Atkinson plans to continue her work to create stronger, more equitable communities as part of the Wayne State University Board of Governors.
Kelly and Atkinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Craig Wilsher and Christa Murphy are the Republican candidates in this race.
Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.votemarilynkelly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AtkinsonforWayneState
Voters will elect two members of the Wayne State University Board of Governors this November, and we recommend Democratic candidates Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson.
Current board member Marilyn Kelly is a native Detroiter and Wayne State University alum and professor who has extensive experience in public service. A former Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, Kelly has also served on the Court of Appeals and was president of the Michigan Board of Education. Throughout her career, she has worked to promote justice and equality for all.
Danielle Atkinson is a lifelong advocate for working families and the founder of Mothering Justice, an organization dedicated to ensuring mothers of color are represented in the political process and their concerns are part of policy decisions. Atkinson plans to continue her work to create stronger, more equitable communities as part of the Wayne State University Board of Governors.
Kelly and Atkinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Craig Wilsher and Christa Murphy are the Republican candidates in this race.
Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.votemarilynkelly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AtkinsonforWayneState
Voters will elect two members of the Wayne State University Board of Governors this November, and we recommend Democratic candidates Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson.
Current board member Marilyn Kelly is a native Detroiter and Wayne State University alum and professor who has extensive experience in public service. A former Chief Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, Kelly has also served on the Court of Appeals and was president of the Michigan Board of Education. Throughout her career, she has worked to promote justice and equality for all.
Danielle Atkinson is a lifelong advocate for working families and the founder of Mothering Justice, an organization dedicated to ensuring mothers of color are represented in the political process and their concerns are part of policy decisions. Atkinson plans to continue her work to create stronger, more equitable communities as part of the Wayne State University Board of Governors.
Kelly and Atkinson are endorsed by three of our partners: Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Craig Wilsher and Christa Murphy are the Republican candidates in this race.
Marilyn Kelly and Danielle Atkinson are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://www.votemarilynkelly.com/
https://www.facebook.com/AtkinsonforWayneState
Supreme Court
State Supreme Court candidates are located on the nonpartisan section of your ballot.
Two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court are up for grabs this year, and we recommend incumbent Justice Richard Bernstein and newcomer Kyra Harris Bolden.
Richard Bernstein is the first blind justice to sit on the state’s highest court and has worked during his time on the court to protect Michiganders’ rights, including the right to vote on reproductive freedom and voting rights initiatives, and preserve the integrity of the judicial system.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he sought to preserve emergency protections designed to keep communities safe. He also helped deliver a decision that made kids and educators safer by keeping guns out of Michigan classrooms.
Justice Bernstein has ruled against shady interest groups in multiple cases, including a decision that upheld prevailing wage laws that ensure construction workers are paid fairly, a ruling that public money should not be funneled into private schools, and a decision to hold election saboteurs accountable.
Kyra Harris Bolden would be the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. Bolden is a passionate, experienced leader and legal professional who has worked throughout her career to promote justice and equality for all. She’s vowed to protect the rights of all Michiganders.
In addition to her legal knowledge and expertise, Bolden brings years of experience serving in the state legislature, where she was an outspoken advocate for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive freedom.
Current Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahara has a history of failing to stand up for LGBTQ rights and victims of abuse. He’s taken money from the DeVos family and sided with their efforts to give public taxpayer dollars to private schools. He also sided with an opinion that sought to keep voting rights and reproductive freedom initiatives off the November ballot, which would have silenced Michigan voters. When given the opportunity to vote to keep guns out of Michigan’s schools, Zahra failed to do so.
Justice Bernstein and Bolden are endorsed by five of our partners including Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Justice Richard Bernstein and Kyra Harris Bolden are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://theblindjustice.com/
https://boldenforjustice.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court are up for grabs this year, and we recommend incumbent Justice Richard Bernstein and newcomer Kyra Harris Bolden.
Richard Bernstein is the first blind justice to sit on the state’s highest court and has worked during his time on the court to protect Michiganders’ rights, including the right to vote on reproductive freedom and voting rights initiatives, and preserve the integrity of the judicial system.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he sought to preserve emergency protections designed to keep communities safe. He also helped deliver a decision that made kids and educators safer by keeping guns out of Michigan classrooms.
Justice Bernstein has ruled against shady interest groups in multiple cases, including a decision that upheld prevailing wage laws that ensure construction workers are paid fairly, a ruling that public money should not be funneled into private schools, and a decision to hold election saboteurs accountable.
Kyra Harris Bolden would be the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. Bolden is a passionate, experienced leader and legal professional who has worked throughout her career to promote justice and equality for all. She’s vowed to protect the rights of all Michiganders.
In addition to her legal knowledge and expertise, Bolden brings years of experience serving in the state legislature, where she was an outspoken advocate for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive freedom.
Current Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahara has a history of failing to stand up for LGBTQ rights and victims of abuse. He’s taken money from the DeVos family and sided with their efforts to give public taxpayer dollars to private schools. He also sided with an opinion that sought to keep voting rights and reproductive freedom initiatives off the November ballot, which would have silenced Michigan voters. When given the opportunity to vote to keep guns out of Michigan’s schools, Zahra failed to do so.
Justice Bernstein and Bolden are endorsed by five of our partners including Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Justice Richard Bernstein and Kyra Harris Bolden are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://theblindjustice.com/
https://boldenforjustice.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court are up for grabs this year, and we recommend incumbent Justice Richard Bernstein and newcomer Kyra Harris Bolden.
Richard Bernstein is the first blind justice to sit on the state’s highest court and has worked during his time on the court to protect Michiganders’ rights, including the right to vote on reproductive freedom and voting rights initiatives, and preserve the integrity of the judicial system.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he sought to preserve emergency protections designed to keep communities safe. He also helped deliver a decision that made kids and educators safer by keeping guns out of Michigan classrooms.
Justice Bernstein has ruled against shady interest groups in multiple cases, including a decision that upheld prevailing wage laws that ensure construction workers are paid fairly, a ruling that public money should not be funneled into private schools, and a decision to hold election saboteurs accountable.
Kyra Harris Bolden would be the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. Bolden is a passionate, experienced leader and legal professional who has worked throughout her career to promote justice and equality for all. She’s vowed to protect the rights of all Michiganders.
In addition to her legal knowledge and expertise, Bolden brings years of experience serving in the state legislature, where she was an outspoken advocate for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive freedom.
Current Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahara has a history of failing to stand up for LGBTQ rights and victims of abuse. He’s taken money from the DeVos family and sided with their efforts to give public taxpayer dollars to private schools. He also sided with an opinion that sought to keep voting rights and reproductive freedom initiatives off the November ballot, which would have silenced Michigan voters. When given the opportunity to vote to keep guns out of Michigan’s schools, Zahra failed to do so.
Justice Bernstein and Bolden are endorsed by five of our partners including Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Justice Richard Bernstein and Kyra Harris Bolden are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://theblindjustice.com/
https://boldenforjustice.com/
Two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court are up for grabs this year, and we recommend incumbent Justice Richard Bernstein and newcomer Kyra Harris Bolden.
Richard Bernstein is the first blind justice to sit on the state’s highest court and has worked during his time on the court to protect Michiganders’ rights, including the right to vote on reproductive freedom and voting rights initiatives, and preserve the integrity of the judicial system.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, he sought to preserve emergency protections designed to keep communities safe. He also helped deliver a decision that made kids and educators safer by keeping guns out of Michigan classrooms.
Justice Bernstein has ruled against shady interest groups in multiple cases, including a decision that upheld prevailing wage laws that ensure construction workers are paid fairly, a ruling that public money should not be funneled into private schools, and a decision to hold election saboteurs accountable.
Kyra Harris Bolden would be the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. Bolden is a passionate, experienced leader and legal professional who has worked throughout her career to promote justice and equality for all. She’s vowed to protect the rights of all Michiganders.
In addition to her legal knowledge and expertise, Bolden brings years of experience serving in the state legislature, where she was an outspoken advocate for racial justice, criminal justice reform, and reproductive freedom.
Current Supreme Court Justice Brian Zahara has a history of failing to stand up for LGBTQ rights and victims of abuse. He’s taken money from the DeVos family and sided with their efforts to give public taxpayer dollars to private schools. He also sided with an opinion that sought to keep voting rights and reproductive freedom initiatives off the November ballot, which would have silenced Michigan voters. When given the opportunity to vote to keep guns out of Michigan’s schools, Zahra failed to do so.
Justice Bernstein and Bolden are endorsed by five of our partners including Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Justice Richard Bernstein and Kyra Harris Bolden are the progressive choices in this race.
Learn more:
https://theblindjustice.com/
https://boldenforjustice.com/
County Commission
Livingston County, District 1 County Commission
Michelle Spisz is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Helping veterans, addressing the educator shortage, and mental health are among her priorities. She has been a public school teacher for over 15 years and was selected twice by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States as teacher of the year. Additionally, she is very active in her community.
Spisz is endorsed by Michigan AFL-CIO and Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Spisz is running against Republican incumbent Douglas Helzerman. We do not recommend voting for Helzerman based on his endorsement from the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and his opposition to Proposals 2 and 3 in 2018.
Michelle Spisz is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/mspisz4commish
Michelle Spisz is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Helping veterans, addressing the educator shortage, and mental health are among her priorities. She has been a public school teacher for over 15 years and was selected twice by the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States as teacher of the year. Additionally, she is very active in her community.
Spisz is endorsed by Michigan AFL-CIO and Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Spisz is running against Republican incumbent Douglas Helzerman. We do not recommend voting for Helzerman based on his endorsement from the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and his opposition to Proposals 2 and 3 in 2018.
Michelle Spisz is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/mspisz4commish
Livingston County, District 2 County Commission
Lisa Wojciechowski is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Wojciechowski has an extensive background in public health working at the University of Michigan, where she also serves on its diversity, equity, and inclusion committee. She also helped found a grassroots organization to protect children’s health at an elementary school built on a toxic landfill. She is endorsed by Michigan AFL-CIO.
Her priorities include expanding senior citizens’ services, addressing PFAS and other pollutants in our water, and keeping politics out of public health.
Wojciechowski is running against Republican Dave Domas who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Lisa Wojciechowski is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/lisa4livingston/
Lisa Wojciechowski is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Wojciechowski has an extensive background in public health working at the University of Michigan, where she also serves on its diversity, equity, and inclusion committee. She also helped found a grassroots organization to protect children’s health at an elementary school built on a toxic landfill. She is endorsed by Michigan AFL-CIO.
Her priorities include expanding senior citizens’ services, addressing PFAS and other pollutants in our water, and keeping politics out of public health.
Wojciechowski is running against Republican Dave Domas who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Lisa Wojciechowski is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/lisa4livingston/
Livingston County, District 3 County Commission
Lori Cowan is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include using federal COVID-19 relief dollars to connect Unadilla Township to the county’s fiber optic system for 911 services, expanding broadband access to homes and protecting the environment. Cowan serves on the Unadilla Township Board of Trustees and is a board member of the Livingston Land Conservancy.
Cowan is endorsed by local labor organizations, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Cowan is running against Republican Frank Sample, who we cannot recommend based on his conservative platform.
Lori Cowan is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lori-Cowan-for-County-Commissioner/100078735322730/
Lori Cowan is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include using federal COVID-19 relief dollars to connect Unadilla Township to the county’s fiber optic system for 911 services, expanding broadband access to homes and protecting the environment. Cowan serves on the Unadilla Township Board of Trustees and is a board member of the Livingston Land Conservancy.
Cowan is endorsed by local labor organizations, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Cowan is running against Republican Frank Sample, who we cannot recommend based on his conservative platform.
Lori Cowan is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Lori-Cowan-for-County-Commissioner/100078735322730/
Livingston County, District 4 County Commission
Amelia Purdy-Ketchum is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include expanding broadband access, affordable housing, and funding county services so government employees can make a living. She worked for almost 10 years as an employee in multiple local governments, including serving as director of Howell Recreation. Purdy-Ketchum was the director of the Howell Melon Festival, and sustained extremist anti-LGBTQ+ attacks towards her from local officials and others for booking a drag queen bingo event. She is also endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Her opponent, Republican Wes Nakagiri, is a MAGA Republican who spreads conspiracies about the 2020 election and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nakagiri has been criticized for his mismanagement of the county commission after he moved to remove the county’s parks commissioner for providing diversity, equity and inclusion training to his employees. Nakagiri routinely rallies against teaching accurate history in schools with views rooted in disinformation, and opposed using state and federal funds to fight COVID-19. Nakagiri is an ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump and continues to perpetuate the “Big Lie” about our elections.
Amelia Purdy-Ketchum is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/Amelia4LivCo
Amelia Purdy-Ketchum is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include expanding broadband access, affordable housing, and funding county services so government employees can make a living. She worked for almost 10 years as an employee in multiple local governments, including serving as director of Howell Recreation. Purdy-Ketchum was the director of the Howell Melon Festival, and sustained extremist anti-LGBTQ+ attacks towards her from local officials and others for booking a drag queen bingo event. She is also endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Her opponent, Republican Wes Nakagiri, is a MAGA Republican who spreads conspiracies about the 2020 election and the COVID-19 pandemic. Nakagiri has been criticized for his mismanagement of the county commission after he moved to remove the county’s parks commissioner for providing diversity, equity and inclusion training to his employees. Nakagiri routinely rallies against teaching accurate history in schools with views rooted in disinformation, and opposed using state and federal funds to fight COVID-19. Nakagiri is an ardent supporter of former President Donald Trump and continues to perpetuate the “Big Lie” about our elections.
Amelia Purdy-Ketchum is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/Amelia4LivCo
Livingston County, District 5 County Commission
Kasey Helton is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. She is a former journalist who is now working in the healthcare sector. Her priorities include ending extremism on the commission, expanding broadband access, addressing funding deficits with county services, and creating affordable housing. Helton is a Navy veteran. Additionally, she is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and has rallied against misinformation being spread about COVID-19 by the county commission.
Helton is running against lawyer and Republican Jay Drick who previously served on the Commission from 2011 to 2014. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Kasey Helton is the most progressive choice in this race.
Kasey Helton is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. She is a former journalist who is now working in the healthcare sector. Her priorities include ending extremism on the commission, expanding broadband access, addressing funding deficits with county services, and creating affordable housing. Helton is a Navy veteran. Additionally, she is a strong advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, and has rallied against misinformation being spread about COVID-19 by the county commission.
Helton is running against lawyer and Republican Jay Drick who previously served on the Commission from 2011 to 2014. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Kasey Helton is the most progressive choice in this race.
Livingston County, District 6 County Commission
Catherine “Lorrie” McMahon is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. She is a lifelong educator, and previously served as superintendent of Brandon School District for six years. McMahon’s priorities include cleaning up PFAS and other pollutants from our water, supporting small businesses, funding recreation services, and addressing public health. McMahon is also a strong supporter of unions and endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
McMahon is running against Republican Roger Deaton, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Lorrie McMahon is the best choice in this race.
Catherine “Lorrie” McMahon is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. She is a lifelong educator, and previously served as superintendent of Brandon School District for six years. McMahon’s priorities include cleaning up PFAS and other pollutants from our water, supporting small businesses, funding recreation services, and addressing public health. McMahon is also a strong supporter of unions and endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
McMahon is running against Republican Roger Deaton, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Lorrie McMahon is the best choice in this race.
Livingston County, District 7 County Commission
Dr. Caitlyn Perry Dial is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include addressing public health amid the COVID-19 pandemic, funding mental health services, expanding broadband access, and affordable housing.
Dr. Dial is the assistant director of development at MSU College of Veterinary Medicine and formerly the executive director of Michigan Women’s Historical Center and Hall of Fame. She earned her Phd in Public History at Western Michigan University. Dr. Dial serves on the board of trustees of the Brighton District Library, as Secretary of the Michigan Museums Association and as vice chair of the Brighton Zoning Board of Appeals.
She is endorsed by local labor organizations, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan AFL-CIO, the Michigan Education Association, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Dial is running against Republican Marty Smith.
Dr. Caitlyn Perry Dial is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://electcpd.com/
Dr. Caitlyn Perry Dial is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include addressing public health amid the COVID-19 pandemic, funding mental health services, expanding broadband access, and affordable housing.
Dr. Dial is the assistant director of development at MSU College of Veterinary Medicine and formerly the executive director of Michigan Women’s Historical Center and Hall of Fame. She earned her Phd in Public History at Western Michigan University. Dr. Dial serves on the board of trustees of the Brighton District Library, as Secretary of the Michigan Museums Association and as vice chair of the Brighton Zoning Board of Appeals.
She is endorsed by local labor organizations, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan AFL-CIO, the Michigan Education Association, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Dial is running against Republican Marty Smith.
Dr. Caitlyn Perry Dial is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://electcpd.com/
Livingston County, District 8 County Commission
Amber Bismack, PhD is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Bismack is an assistant professor of K-12 education at Oakland University. She serves as director and co-founder of Residents Working Against Huron River Flooding, organizing around Hamburg Township to protect the community from devastating flood events. She is also on the board of directors of the Huron River Watershed Council and on U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin’s Environmental Advisory Board. Bismack’s priorities include environmental issues such as PFAS and flooding, and expanding high speed internet access.
Bismack is endorsed by local labor, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Bismack is running against Nick Fiani, a former Brighton school board member who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Amber Bismack is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Amber-S-Bismack-PhD-for-County-Commissioner/100078883385962/
Amber Bismack, PhD is a Democrat running for her first term on the Livingston County Commission. Bismack is an assistant professor of K-12 education at Oakland University. She serves as director and co-founder of Residents Working Against Huron River Flooding, organizing around Hamburg Township to protect the community from devastating flood events. She is also on the board of directors of the Huron River Watershed Council and on U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin’s Environmental Advisory Board. Bismack’s priorities include environmental issues such as PFAS and flooding, and expanding high speed internet access.
Bismack is endorsed by local labor, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Bismack is running against Nick Fiani, a former Brighton school board member who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Amber Bismack is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Amber-S-Bismack-PhD-for-County-Commissioner/100078883385962/
Livingston County, District 9 County Commission
Christine Kaczkowski is a Democrat running for her first full term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include expanding high speed internet access, food security initiatives, and supporting parks and recreation. She is endorsed by the Michigan AFL-CIO.
We cannot speak to the progressive bonafides of Kaczkowski due to a lack of publicly available information. However, Kaczkowski is running against Republican Jay Gross, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Based on this information, we recommend voting for Kaczkowski.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofchristinek
Christine Kaczkowski is a Democrat running for her first full term on the Livingston County Commission. Her priorities include expanding high speed internet access, food security initiatives, and supporting parks and recreation. She is endorsed by the Michigan AFL-CIO.
We cannot speak to the progressive bonafides of Kaczkowski due to a lack of publicly available information. However, Kaczkowski is running against Republican Jay Gross, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Based on this information, we recommend voting for Kaczkowski.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/friendsofchristinek
Oakland County, District 1 County Commission
David Woodward is a Democrat running for his ninth term on the Oakland County Commission. His colleagues elected him to chair the Commission in 2019. He works for the Economic Justice Alliance of Michigan, which focuses on economic justice and racial equity. He has also served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives, where he established a progressive reputation and voting record.
The environment, economic opportunity, and equity are Woodward’s top priorities as County Commission Chair. Woodward is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: Michigan League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Woodward is running against right-wing Republican Chris Meister, who called the January 6 insurrection “peaceful” and has spread conspiracies about the 2020 election.
David Woodward is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/chairmanwoodward
David Woodward is a Democrat running for his ninth term on the Oakland County Commission. His colleagues elected him to chair the Commission in 2019. He works for the Economic Justice Alliance of Michigan, which focuses on economic justice and racial equity. He has also served six years in the Michigan House of Representatives, where he established a progressive reputation and voting record.
The environment, economic opportunity, and equity are Woodward’s top priorities as County Commission Chair. Woodward is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: Michigan League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Woodward is running against right-wing Republican Chris Meister, who called the January 6 insurrection “peaceful” and has spread conspiracies about the 2020 election.
David Woodward is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/chairmanwoodward
Oakland County, District 2 County Commission
Penny Luebs is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She previously served 10 years as mayor of Clawson. Her priorities include funding for roads and improving the quality of life for residents.
Luebs is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Luebs is running against Republican Ken Roberts.
Penny Luebs is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/pennycpluebs/
Penny Luebs is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She previously served 10 years as mayor of Clawson. Her priorities include funding for roads and improving the quality of life for residents.
Luebs is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Luebs is running against Republican Ken Roberts.
Penny Luebs is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/pennycpluebs/
Oakland County, District 3 County Commission
Gary McGillivray is a Democrat running for his eighth term on the Oakland County Commission. He currently serves as chair of the Democratic Caucus on the County Commission. He has served the City of Madison Heights as a reserve police officer, city council member, and mayor. He writes and issues a periodic newsletter to make sure residents are informed about happenings in Oakland County.
McGillivray is endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
McGillivray is running against Republican Ronald Dwyer.
Gary McGillivray is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/votemcgillivray/
Gary McGillivray is a Democrat running for his eighth term on the Oakland County Commission. He currently serves as chair of the Democratic Caucus on the County Commission. He has served the City of Madison Heights as a reserve police officer, city council member, and mayor. He writes and issues a periodic newsletter to make sure residents are informed about happenings in Oakland County.
McGillivray is endorsed by the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
McGillivray is running against Republican Ronald Dwyer.
Gary McGillivray is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/votemcgillivray/
Oakland County, District 4 County Commission
Brendan Johnson is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Johnson has worked as a legislative staffer for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and State Representative Samantha Steckloff. Johnson’s priorities include 21st century workforce training, increasing access to health care, and public transportation.
Johnson is endorsed by partner organizations Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, and organized labor groups.
Johnson is running against Republican Kevin R. McDaniel, who has a conservative background.
Brendan Johnson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.brendanformichigan.com/
Brendan Johnson is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Johnson has worked as a legislative staffer for Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin and State Representative Samantha Steckloff. Johnson’s priorities include 21st century workforce training, increasing access to health care, and public transportation.
Johnson is endorsed by partner organizations Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, and organized labor groups.
Johnson is running against Republican Kevin R. McDaniel, who has a conservative background.
Brendan Johnson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.brendanformichigan.com/
Oakland County, District 5 County Commission
Justin Willcock is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Willcock is active in his community and he previously served as Secretary to the Village of Oxford’s Downtown Development Authority
We cannot speak to the progressive bonafides of Willcock due to a lack of publicly available information. However, Willcock is running against Republican Mike Spisz, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Based on this information, we recommend voting for Willcock.
Learn more: https://justinwillcock.com/
Justin Willcock is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Willcock is active in his community and he previously served as Secretary to the Village of Oxford’s Downtown Development Authority
We cannot speak to the progressive bonafides of Willcock due to a lack of publicly available information. However, Willcock is running against Republican Mike Spisz, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Based on this information, we recommend voting for Willcock.
Learn more: https://justinwillcock.com/
Oakland County, District 6 County Commission
Sarah B. Pounds is a Democrat running for her first term on the Oakland County Commission. Pounds is committed to funding public education, supporting electric vehicle charging stations and environmental initiatives, and helping small businesses succeed.
Pounds is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Pounds is running against Republican Michael Gingell, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Sarah Pounds is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.electsarahbpounds.com/
Sarah B. Pounds is a Democrat running for her first term on the Oakland County Commission. Pounds is committed to funding public education, supporting electric vehicle charging stations and environmental initiatives, and helping small businesses succeed.
Pounds is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Pounds is running against Republican Michael Gingell, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Sarah Pounds is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.electsarahbpounds.com/
Oakland County, District 7 County Commission
Kristin Watt is a Democrat running for her first term on the Oakland County Commission. She served as a trustee on the Holly Township Library Board and served as co-director of a community action organization.
Watt promises to reach across the aisle to serve constituents, including supporting that working families have the resources they need amid the pandemic and inflation, tackling the mental health crisis, and helping small businesses thrive. Watt is endorsed by local labor organizations and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Watt is running against Republican Bob Hoffman.
Kristin Watt is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/kristinwattforocc7/about
Kristin Watt is a Democrat running for her first term on the Oakland County Commission. She served as a trustee on the Holly Township Library Board and served as co-director of a community action organization.
Watt promises to reach across the aisle to serve constituents, including supporting that working families have the resources they need amid the pandemic and inflation, tackling the mental health crisis, and helping small businesses thrive. Watt is endorsed by local labor organizations and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Watt is running against Republican Bob Hoffman.
Kristin Watt is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/kristinwattforocc7/about
Oakland County, District 8 County Commission
Thomas J. Kurzyniec is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. We could find little information about this candidate.
Kurzyniec is running against Republican incumbent Karen Joliat, who has conservative credentials.
Given the limited information we have about both candidates, we are unable to determine whether either candidate could be considered progressive to any degree, but at this time we are recommending voters consider Kurzyniec over Joliat based on the information we were able to find.
Thomas J. Kurzyniec is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. We could find little information about this candidate.
Kurzyniec is running against Republican incumbent Karen Joliat, who has conservative credentials.
Given the limited information we have about both candidates, we are unable to determine whether either candidate could be considered progressive to any degree, but at this time we are recommending voters consider Kurzyniec over Joliat based on the information we were able to find.
Oakland County, District 9 County Commission
Angela Powell is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She has been an active volunteer in Pontiac since long before she was elected in 2018. She has worked as a community organizer for both the Oakland County Democratic Party and the Michigan House Democratic Caucus. She also worked on the staff of former House Democratic Leader Tim Greimel. Transportation, education, and voting rights are among Powell’s priorities on the County Commission.
Powell is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: the Michigan League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Powell is running against Republican Gjyste Nuculaj.
Angela Powell is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: http://voteangelapowell.com/
Angela Powell is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She has been an active volunteer in Pontiac since long before she was elected in 2018. She has worked as a community organizer for both the Oakland County Democratic Party and the Michigan House Democratic Caucus. She also worked on the staff of former House Democratic Leader Tim Greimel. Transportation, education, and voting rights are among Powell’s priorities on the County Commission.
Powell is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: the Michigan League of Conservation Voters and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Powell is running against Republican Gjyste Nuculaj.
Angela Powell is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: http://voteangelapowell.com/
Oakland County, District 10 County Commission
Kristen Nelson is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She is a board-certified behavioral analyst whose work focuses on young people with autism. She was previously a special education teacher for 15 years. Public health and safety, environmental justice, and community economic development are among Nelson’s priorities.
Nelson is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Nelson is running against Republican Vincent Sitto.
Kristen Nelson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/kristennelsonforcc/
Kristen Nelson is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She is a board-certified behavioral analyst whose work focuses on young people with autism. She was previously a special education teacher for 15 years. Public health and safety, environmental justice, and community economic development are among Nelson’s priorities.
Nelson is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Nelson is running against Republican Vincent Sitto.
Kristen Nelson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/kristennelsonforcc/
Oakland County, District 11 County Commission
Marcia Gershenson is a Democrat running for her tenth term on the Oakland County Commission. Her priorities include services to seniors, families, and children. Gershenson is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Gershenson is running against Republican S. Dave Sullivan.
Marcia Gershenson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Marcia-Gershenson-for-Oakland-County-Commission-District-13/100067818828225/
Marcia Gershenson is a Democrat running for her tenth term on the Oakland County Commission. Her priorities include services to seniors, families, and children. Gershenson is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Gershenson is running against Republican S. Dave Sullivan.
Marcia Gershenson is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Marcia-Gershenson-for-Oakland-County-Commission-District-13/100067818828225/
Oakland County, District 12 County Commission
Mike Smith is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Smith has been a public servant for over 18 years, previously working for county government and local governments, and now works as assistant city manager for the City of Berkley.
Workforce training, helping small businesses, and mental health funding are among his priorities. Smith is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Smith is running against Republican Christine A. Long, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Mike Smith is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Mike-Smith-for-County-Commissioner/100069020565893/
Mike Smith is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Smith has been a public servant for over 18 years, previously working for county government and local governments, and now works as assistant city manager for the City of Berkley.
Workforce training, helping small businesses, and mental health funding are among his priorities. Smith is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Smith is running against Republican Christine A. Long, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Mike Smith is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/people/Mike-Smith-for-County-Commissioner/100069020565893/
Oakland County, District 13 County Commission
Jim Williams is a Democrat running for his second term on the Oakland County Commission. He retired after working for 24 years as a youth services caseworker and 16 years as a substitute teacher.
Williams cites fighting PFAS contamination and making Oakland County carbon neutral among his priorities, if elected.
Williams is running against Republican incumbent Phil Weipert.
Jim Williams is the best choice in this race.
Jim Williams is a Democrat running for his second term on the Oakland County Commission. He retired after working for 24 years as a youth services caseworker and 16 years as a substitute teacher.
Williams cites fighting PFAS contamination and making Oakland County carbon neutral among his priorities, if elected.
Williams is running against Republican incumbent Phil Weipert.
Jim Williams is the best choice in this race.
Oakland County, District 14 County Commission
Ajay V. Rahman is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Rahman is a physician and small business owner. Infrastructure, public health and sustainability are among Rahman’s priorities.
Rahman is endorsed by four of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
He is running against Republican Robert Smiley.
Ajay Rahman is the more progressive choice in this race.
Lean more: https://www.voteajayraman.com/
Ajay V. Rahman is a Democrat running for his first term on the Oakland County Commission. Rahman is a physician and small business owner. Infrastructure, public health and sustainability are among Rahman’s priorities.
Rahman is endorsed by four of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
He is running against Republican Robert Smiley.
Ajay Rahman is the more progressive choice in this race.
Lean more: https://www.voteajayraman.com/
Oakland County, District 15 County Commission
Gwen Markham is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She has also worked as a manufacturing executive. As a member of the Novi City Council, Markham brought a progressive voice to a Council that was usually dominated by conservatives. She also served as chair of the Novi Planning Commission. The environment and equity are among Markham’s priorities on the County Commission.
Markham is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Markham is running against Republican Michelle DiNardo, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Gwen Markham is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://gwenmarkham.com/
Gwen Markham is a Democrat running for her third term on the Oakland County Commission. She has also worked as a manufacturing executive. As a member of the Novi City Council, Markham brought a progressive voice to a Council that was usually dominated by conservatives. She also served as chair of the Novi Planning Commission. The environment and equity are among Markham’s priorities on the County Commission.
Markham is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter.
Markham is running against Republican Michelle DiNardo, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Gwen Markham is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://gwenmarkham.com/
Oakland County, District 16 County Commission
William Miller is a Democrat running for his third term on the Oakland County Commission. A certified crane operator, he has worked as an organizer and negotiator for the International Union of Operating Employees Local 324.
Miller is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan Advocates of Michigan.
Miller is running against Republican Michael Mrozovich.
William Miller is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: www.votewilliammiller.com
William Miller is a Democrat running for his third term on the Oakland County Commission. A certified crane operator, he has worked as an organizer and negotiator for the International Union of Operating Employees Local 324.
Miller is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, the Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan Advocates of Michigan.
Miller is running against Republican Michael Mrozovich.
William Miller is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: www.votewilliammiller.com
Oakland County, District 17 County Commission
Yolanda Smith Charles is a Democrat running for her second term on the Oakland County Commission. She has served as president of the Southfield Board of Education and the Commission on Senior Adults. She is a web developer and a small business owner.
Economic development, equitable access to county parks and recreation, and technology infrastructure are among her priorities. Charles is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
Charles is running against Republican Aaron Tobin.
Yolanda Charles is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: http://voteyolanda.org/
Yolanda Smith Charles is a Democrat running for her second term on the Oakland County Commission. She has served as president of the Southfield Board of Education and the Commission on Senior Adults. She is a web developer and a small business owner.
Economic development, equitable access to county parks and recreation, and technology infrastructure are among her priorities. Charles is endorsed by two of our partner organizations: the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
Charles is running against Republican Aaron Tobin.
Yolanda Charles is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: http://voteyolanda.org/
Oakland County, District 18 County Commission
Janet Jackson is a Democrat running for her eighth term on the Oakland County Commission. She currently serves as vice chair of the Democratic Caucus on the County Commission. She currently works in administration for AT&T and previously worked as a substitute teacher and real estate agent. She is a member of Communications Workers of America Local 4009 and an active community volunteer.
Jackson is running against Republican Kat Phillips.
Janet Jackson is the best choice in this race.
Janet Jackson is a Democrat running for her eighth term on the Oakland County Commission. She currently serves as vice chair of the Democratic Caucus on the County Commission. She currently works in administration for AT&T and previously worked as a substitute teacher and real estate agent. She is a member of Communications Workers of America Local 4009 and an active community volunteer.
Jackson is running against Republican Kat Phillips.
Janet Jackson is the best choice in this race.
Oakland County, District 19 County Commission
Charlie Cavell is a Democrat running for his second term on the Oakland County Commission. He is a social worker who has been involved in many organizations. His priorities include regional collaboration, innovative government, and inclusion.
Cavell is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
Cavell is running against Republican Joseph Pucci, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Cavell is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.cavell4commission.com
Charlie Cavell is a Democrat running for his second term on the Oakland County Commission. He is a social worker who has been involved in many organizations. His priorities include regional collaboration, innovative government, and inclusion.
Cavell is endorsed by three of our partner organizations: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, the Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, and the Michigan League of Conservation Voters.
Cavell is running against Republican Joseph Pucci, who is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Cavell is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.cavell4commission.com
Washtenaw County, District 1 County Commission
Jason Maciejewski is a Democrat running for his third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. He works as chief Advocacy & planning officer for the nonprofit Area Agency on Aging. He served eight years as a Dexter Township trustee and has served on a number of other local boards and committees. He is a strong advocate for expanding broadband access to rural areas in Washtenaw County.
Maciejewski is running against Republican Jeff Robbins.
Jason Maciejewski is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.jasonmaciejewski.com/
Jason Maciejewski is a Democrat running for his third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. He works as chief Advocacy & planning officer for the nonprofit Area Agency on Aging. He served eight years as a Dexter Township trustee and has served on a number of other local boards and committees. He is a strong advocate for expanding broadband access to rural areas in Washtenaw County.
Maciejewski is running against Republican Jeff Robbins.
Jason Maciejewski is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.jasonmaciejewski.com/
Washtenaw County, District 2 County Commission
Crystal Lyte is a Democrat running for her first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. Mental and physical health care access, education, and expungement opportunities are among her priorities. Lyte is endorsed by numerous local elected officials, labor organizations, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Working Families Party.
Lyte is running against Republican David Trent.
Crystal Lyte is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.electcrystallyte.com/
Crystal Lyte is a Democrat running for her first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. Mental and physical health care access, education, and expungement opportunities are among her priorities. Lyte is endorsed by numerous local elected officials, labor organizations, the Michigan AFL-CIO, and the Working Families Party.
Lyte is running against Republican David Trent.
Crystal Lyte is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.electcrystallyte.com/
Washtenaw County, District 3 County Commission
Shannon Beeman is a Democrat running for her third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She currently works as the associate director of marketing
and communications for the Zell Lurie Institute at the University of Michigan. Efficiency, transparency, and supporting small businesses are among her priorities. She is endorsed by the Michigan AFL-CIO.
Beeman is running against Republican Ken Siler.
Given the limited information we have about both candidates, we are unable to determine whether either candidate could be considered progressive to any degree, but at this time we are recommending voters consider Beeman over Siler based on the information we were able to find.
Learn more: http://votebeeman.com/
Shannon Beeman is a Democrat running for her third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She currently works as the associate director of marketing
and communications for the Zell Lurie Institute at the University of Michigan. Efficiency, transparency, and supporting small businesses are among her priorities. She is endorsed by the Michigan AFL-CIO.
Beeman is running against Republican Ken Siler.
Given the limited information we have about both candidates, we are unable to determine whether either candidate could be considered progressive to any degree, but at this time we are recommending voters consider Beeman over Siler based on the information we were able to find.
Learn more: http://votebeeman.com/
Washtenaw County, District 4 County Commission
Caroline Sanders is a Democrat running for her second term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She is a care provider and a proud member of the UAW, which has endorsed her for County Commissioner. Her priorities include expanding child care programs, health care, and educational opportunities.
Sanders is running against Republican Robert Zimmerman.
Caroline Sanders is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.sanders4commissioner20.com
Caroline Sanders is a Democrat running for her second term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She is a care provider and a proud member of the UAW, which has endorsed her for County Commissioner. Her priorities include expanding child care programs, health care, and educational opportunities.
Sanders is running against Republican Robert Zimmerman.
Caroline Sanders is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.sanders4commissioner20.com
Washtenaw County, District 5 County Commission
Justin Hodge is a Democrat running for his second term on the Washtenaw County Commission. A social worker by profession and faculty member at the University of Michigan, he is focused on expanding economic opportunity and mobility for residents as well as making residents feel more connected to their government.
He is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and the Working Families Party.
Hodge is running against Republican Brett Birk.
Justin Hodge is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.votejustinhodge.com/
Justin Hodge is a Democrat running for his second term on the Washtenaw County Commission. A social worker by profession and faculty member at the University of Michigan, he is focused on expanding economic opportunity and mobility for residents as well as making residents feel more connected to their government.
He is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and the Working Families Party.
Hodge is running against Republican Brett Birk.
Justin Hodge is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.votejustinhodge.com/
Washtenaw County, District 6 County Commission
Annie Somerville is a Democrat running for her first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She sits on the Ypsilanti City Council and serves as State Senator Jeff Irwin’s chief of staff. Finding equitable solutions to increasing access to food, clean water, housing, and healthcare are among her priorities.
She is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and the Working Families Party.
Somerville is running against Republican Todd VonSchulze.
Annie Somerville is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.voteanniesomerville.com/
Annie Somerville is a Democrat running for her first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. She sits on the Ypsilanti City Council and serves as State Senator Jeff Irwin’s chief of staff. Finding equitable solutions to increasing access to food, clean water, housing, and healthcare are among her priorities.
She is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan and the Working Families Party.
Somerville is running against Republican Todd VonSchulze.
Annie Somerville is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.voteanniesomerville.com/
Washtenaw County, District 7 County Commission
Andy LaBarre is a Democrat running for his sixth term on the Washtenaw County Commission. LaBarre currently serves as executive vice president and director of government relations for the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber. He has also worked for U.S. Senator Carl Levin and Congressman John Dingell.
LaBarre is running against Republican Jonathan Smart.
Andy LaBarre is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.andylabarre.com/
Andy LaBarre is a Democrat running for his sixth term on the Washtenaw County Commission. LaBarre currently serves as executive vice president and director of government relations for the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti Regional Chamber. He has also worked for U.S. Senator Carl Levin and Congressman John Dingell.
LaBarre is running against Republican Jonathan Smart.
Andy LaBarre is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.andylabarre.com/
Washtenaw County, District 8 County Commission
Yousef Rahbi is running for his first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. He is currently finishing his third term in the State House of Representatives, where he serves as the Democratic Floor Leader. Rabhi is known for having a strongly progressive record in the state house.
He is running against Republican Leslie Shannon.
Yousef Rabhi is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.voterabhi.com/
Yousef Rahbi is running for his first term on the Washtenaw County Commission. He is currently finishing his third term in the State House of Representatives, where he serves as the Democratic Floor Leader. Rabhi is known for having a strongly progressive record in the state house.
He is running against Republican Leslie Shannon.
Yousef Rabhi is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.voterabhi.com/
Washtenaw County, District 9 County Commission
Katie Scott is a Democrat running for her third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. A registered nurse, Scott currently serves as vice president of the Michigan Nurses Association.
Scott is running against Republican Stuart Berry.
Katie Scott is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.votekatiescott.com
Katie Scott is a Democrat running for her third term on the Washtenaw County Commission. A registered nurse, Scott currently serves as vice president of the Michigan Nurses Association.
Scott is running against Republican Stuart Berry.
Katie Scott is the best choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.votekatiescott.com
Statewide Ballot Measures
Proposal 1 will change term limits for state legislators from three 2-year terms (6 years total) in the state House and two 4-year terms (8 years total) in the state Senate, to 12 combined years in the state Legislature. It will also require elected state legislative and state executive officials to file annual financial disclosure reports on their income, assets, liabilities, gifts from lobbyists, positions held in certain organizations, and agreements on future employment.
Vote YES on Proposal 1.
Proposal 1 will change term limits for state legislators from three 2-year terms (6 years total) in the state House and two 4-year terms (8 years total) in the state Senate, to 12 combined years in the state Legislature. It will also require elected state legislative and state executive officials to file annual financial disclosure reports on their income, assets, liabilities, gifts from lobbyists, positions held in certain organizations, and agreements on future employment.
Vote YES on Proposal 1.
Proposal 2 is a pro-voter initiative aimed at increasing access to the ballot and ensuring transparency in our elections. The proposal will ensure voters can vote free from harassment, intimidation, and interference by enshrining a fundamental right to vote in the Michigan Constitution. This proposal will also modernize Michigan’s elections by creating nine days of in-person early voting; allowing voters to request an absentee ballot for all future elections; providing state funding for secure ballot drop boxes, postage for absentee ballots and absentee ballot tracking; counting ballots from military and overseas voters that are postmarked by Election Day and received within six days; requiring audits to be conducted in public by local election officials; and ensuring that the outcome of Michigan elections are determined solely by the votes cast.
Vote YES on Proposal 2.
Proposal 2 is a pro-voter initiative aimed at increasing access to the ballot and ensuring transparency in our elections. The proposal will ensure voters can vote free from harassment, intimidation, and interference by enshrining a fundamental right to vote in the Michigan Constitution. This proposal will also modernize Michigan’s elections by creating nine days of in-person early voting; allowing voters to request an absentee ballot for all future elections; providing state funding for secure ballot drop boxes, postage for absentee ballots and absentee ballot tracking; counting ballots from military and overseas voters that are postmarked by Election Day and received within six days; requiring audits to be conducted in public by local election officials; and ensuring that the outcome of Michigan elections are determined solely by the votes cast.
Vote YES on Proposal 2.
Proposal 3 will ensure every individual’s right to reproductive freedom, including the right to make their own decisions about birth control, abortion, pregnancy, childbirth, prenatal care, and postpartum care is protected by enshrining these rights into the Michigan Constitution. It will also ensure no one can be punished for having a miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion and protects healthcare providers who assist with reproductive health care procedures.
Vote YES on Proposal 3.
Proposal 3 will ensure every individual’s right to reproductive freedom, including the right to make their own decisions about birth control, abortion, pregnancy, childbirth, prenatal care, and postpartum care is protected by enshrining these rights into the Michigan Constitution. It will also ensure no one can be punished for having a miscarriage, stillbirth, or abortion and protects healthcare providers who assist with reproductive health care procedures.
Vote YES on Proposal 3.
Oakland County Ballot Measures
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below ballot measures on your ballot.
This 0.95 mills for Oakland County Public Transportation will keep and maintain current public transit service, improve and expand transit by creating and extending routes—including expanding rural transit—and fund capital improvements and seize new opportunities to match federal, state, and other funding opportunities. The 10-year millage is estimated to generate over $66 million in the first year. This millage will improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, those without ready access to a car, and those who need or want options beyond driving and need reliable transportation to get to work, go grocery shopping, keep medical appointments, go to school, and go about their daily lives.
Vote YES on the Oakland County Public Transit Millage.
This 0.95 mills for Oakland County Public Transportation will keep and maintain current public transit service, improve and expand transit by creating and extending routes—including expanding rural transit—and fund capital improvements and seize new opportunities to match federal, state, and other funding opportunities. The 10-year millage is estimated to generate over $66 million in the first year. This millage will improve mobility for seniors, people with disabilities, those without ready access to a car, and those who need or want options beyond driving and need reliable transportation to get to work, go grocery shopping, keep medical appointments, go to school, and go about their daily lives.
Vote YES on the Oakland County Public Transit Millage.
State Supreme Court candidates are located on the nonpartisan section of your ballot.