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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.
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/
8th Congressional District
Rep. Dan Kildee is the Democratic candidate running for his sixth term in the 8th Congressional District. He currently serves as chief deputy majority whip, where he acts as a liaison among Members of Congress and the leadership to build support for legislation. In 2016, he secured the release of Amir Hekmati, a U.S. Marine veteran who was held prisoner in Iran. He secured federal funding to replace water pipes in Flint. He successfully led an effort to prevent a Canadian company from burying nuclear waste near the Lake Huron shoreline.
Before serving in Congress, Kildee co-founded the Center for Community Progress, a national non-profit which works on urban revitalization. He founded the Genesee County Land Bank, which directed over $100 million in investment to Flint and is a model for land banks across America. He also served as Genesee County treasurer and member of the Flint School Board.
Rep. Kildee is endorsed by six of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, and Michigan Education Association.
Kildee’s opponent is Paul Junge, who supports the MAGA agenda and is opposed to reproductive rights. Junge is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Rep. Dan Kildee is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.dankildee.com
Rep. Dan Kildee is the Democratic candidate running for his sixth term in the 8th Congressional District. He currently serves as chief deputy majority whip, where he acts as a liaison among Members of Congress and the leadership to build support for legislation. In 2016, he secured the release of Amir Hekmati, a U.S. Marine veteran who was held prisoner in Iran. He secured federal funding to replace water pipes in Flint. He successfully led an effort to prevent a Canadian company from burying nuclear waste near the Lake Huron shoreline.
Before serving in Congress, Kildee co-founded the Center for Community Progress, a national non-profit which works on urban revitalization. He founded the Genesee County Land Bank, which directed over $100 million in investment to Flint and is a model for land banks across America. He also served as Genesee County treasurer and member of the Flint School Board.
Rep. Kildee is endorsed by six of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, Sierra Club Michigan Chapter, Clean Water Action, and Michigan Education Association.
Kildee’s opponent is Paul Junge, who supports the MAGA agenda and is opposed to reproductive rights. Junge is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Rep. Dan Kildee is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.dankildee.com
State Senate
Senator, 26th District
Charles Stadler is a Democrat running for the Michigan State Senate for the 26th District. Stadler supports college grants for students working to become teachers, supports women’s rights, and is for expanding renewable energy in Michigan.
Stadler is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Stadler is running against Republican Kevin Daley. Daley supports restricting voting rights, holds irresponsible right-wing views on guns, and is anti-reproductive rights. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and the DeVos-backed Michigan Freedom Network.
Charles Stadler is the most progressive choice in this race.
Charles Stadler is a Democrat running for the Michigan State Senate for the 26th District. Stadler supports college grants for students working to become teachers, supports women’s rights, and is for expanding renewable energy in Michigan.
Stadler is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
Stadler is running against Republican Kevin Daley. Daley supports restricting voting rights, holds irresponsible right-wing views on guns, and is anti-reproductive rights. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and the DeVos-backed Michigan Freedom Network.
Charles Stadler is the most progressive choice in this race.
Senator, 27th District
John Cherry is a Democrat running for the Michigan State Senate for the 27th District. Cherry is currently serving the 49th District in the Michigan State House of Representatives, where he serves on the Government Operations, Commerce and Tourism, and Energy committees.
Cherry has sponsored or co-sponsored legislation to reform Michigan’s unemployment system, increase the minimum wage, protect union rights, and protect employees from discrimination and wage fraud. He will fight for clean water and laws that protect Michiganders from lead exposure, and strengthen Michigan’s natural resource protections.
Cherry is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Cherry is running against Republican Aaron Gardner. Garner is against common sense gun violence prevention measures and endorsed by the right-wing organization Citizens for Traditional Values, which is against reproductive freedom and marriage equality.
John Cherry is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.cherryformichigan.com/
John Cherry is a Democrat running for the Michigan State Senate for the 27th District. Cherry is currently serving the 49th District in the Michigan State House of Representatives, where he serves on the Government Operations, Commerce and Tourism, and Energy committees.
Cherry has sponsored or co-sponsored legislation to reform Michigan’s unemployment system, increase the minimum wage, protect union rights, and protect employees from discrimination and wage fraud. He will fight for clean water and laws that protect Michiganders from lead exposure, and strengthen Michigan’s natural resource protections.
Cherry is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Cherry is running against Republican Aaron Gardner. Garner is against common sense gun violence prevention measures and endorsed by the right-wing organization Citizens for Traditional Values, which is against reproductive freedom and marriage equality.
John Cherry is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.cherryformichigan.com/
State House
Representative, 67th District
Brian LaJoie is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 67th District. He currently works as a builder and formerly worked in the oil and natural gas industry as a pressure control specialist. LaJoie believes in paying teachers a competitive wage, that Michigan should expand job training programs outside of higher education, and that voting should be simple. He also believes in using renewable energy and protecting the environment and supports common sense gun violence prevention legislation and reproductive rights.
LaJoie is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
LaJoie is running against Republican Phil Green. Green is anti-reproductive freedom and is endorsed by the National Rifle Association as well as the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and the DeVos-backed Michigan Freedom Network.
Brian A. LaJoie is the best choice in this race.
Brian LaJoie is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 67th District. He currently works as a builder and formerly worked in the oil and natural gas industry as a pressure control specialist. LaJoie believes in paying teachers a competitive wage, that Michigan should expand job training programs outside of higher education, and that voting should be simple. He also believes in using renewable energy and protecting the environment and supports common sense gun violence prevention legislation and reproductive rights.
LaJoie is endorsed by Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan.
LaJoie is running against Republican Phil Green. Green is anti-reproductive freedom and is endorsed by the National Rifle Association as well as the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan and the DeVos-backed Michigan Freedom Network.
Brian A. LaJoie is the best choice in this race.
Representative, 69th District
Jasper Martus is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 69th District. Martus is a lifelong resident of Genesee County and graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in International Relations. He worked for Congressman Dan Kildee and for the Michigan Legislature with constituent services, communications and drafting legislation.
Martus’ priorities include investing in jobs, expanding education, and rebuilding Michigan’s infrastructure. He will support new job training programs, investment in entrepreneurs, and strengthening the right to unionize. He will fight to give more resources to teachers and fund K-12 schools, and improve the safety of Michigan’s water systems while investing in green infrastructure and creating union jobs.
Martus is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Martus is running against Republican Jesse Couch, who is anti-reproductive freedom and is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Jasper Martus is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.jaspermartus.com
Jasper Martus is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 69th District. Martus is a lifelong resident of Genesee County and graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in International Relations. He worked for Congressman Dan Kildee and for the Michigan Legislature with constituent services, communications and drafting legislation.
Martus’ priorities include investing in jobs, expanding education, and rebuilding Michigan’s infrastructure. He will support new job training programs, investment in entrepreneurs, and strengthening the right to unionize. He will fight to give more resources to teachers and fund K-12 schools, and improve the safety of Michigan’s water systems while investing in green infrastructure and creating union jobs.
Martus is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Michigan Education Association, and Equality Michigan.
Martus is running against Republican Jesse Couch, who is anti-reproductive freedom and is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Jasper Martus is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.jaspermartus.com
Representative, 97th District
Paul M. Whitney is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 97th District. Whitney is a lifelong resident of the 97th District and received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Saginaw Valley State University. He has worked in child welfare and been a police officer for three decades.
Whitney’s priorities include child welfare and working to improve the foster care system. He supports protecting reproductive health care, including protecting abortion access. Whitney also supports fully funding Michigan’s public schools, and addressing equality for LGBTQ students, fighting to protect voting access, protecting Michigan’s water and natural resources, and passing common sense gun violence prevention measures.
Whitney is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Whitney is running against Republican Matthew Bierlein. Bierlein is anti-reproductive freedom, and holds irresponsible views on guns. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Paul Whitney is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080369958403
Paul M. Whitney is a Democrat running for the Michigan House of Representatives for the 97th District. Whitney is a lifelong resident of the 97th District and received both his undergraduate and graduate degrees from Saginaw Valley State University. He has worked in child welfare and been a police officer for three decades.
Whitney’s priorities include child welfare and working to improve the foster care system. He supports protecting reproductive health care, including protecting abortion access. Whitney also supports fully funding Michigan’s public schools, and addressing equality for LGBTQ students, fighting to protect voting access, protecting Michigan’s water and natural resources, and passing common sense gun violence prevention measures.
Whitney is endorsed by three of our partners: Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, American Federation of Teachers Michigan, and Michigan Education Association.
Whitney is running against Republican Matthew Bierlein. Bierlein is anti-reproductive freedom, and holds irresponsible views on guns. He is endorsed by the anti-choice organization Right to Life Michigan.
Paul Whitney is the most progressive choice in this race.
Learn more: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080369958403
Genesee County, District 7 County Commission
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below county district races on your ballot.
Martin Cousineau is a Democrat running for his fourth term on the Genesee County Commission. Cousineau was elected Chair of the County Commission in just his second term. A chiropractor by trade, Cousineau has also served as a Thetford Township Trustee. We couldn’t find much information about Cousineau’s platform.
Cousineau is running against Republican Lynn Culver.
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 Cousineau over Culver based on the information we were able to find.
Learn more: https://martincousineau.com/
Martin Cousineau is a Democrat running for his fourth term on the Genesee County Commission. Cousineau was elected Chair of the County Commission in just his second term. A chiropractor by trade, Cousineau has also served as a Thetford Township Trustee. We couldn’t find much information about Cousineau’s platform.
Cousineau is running against Republican Lynn Culver.
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 Cousineau over Culver based on the information we were able to find.
Learn more: https://martincousineau.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.
State Supreme Court candidates are located on the nonpartisan section of your ballot.