Michigan Democrats are gearing up for new leadership in early 2023 as current party Chair Lavora Barnes announced she will not be seeking reelection. The state Democratic Party will vote on a new chair at their spring convention set for February or March. At least four candidates, including former state Sen. Curtis Hertel Jr. and political organizer Al “Bj” Williams, are already campaigning for the position.
The new chair will have the task of leading the party through the 2026 elections, including open races for governor, attorney general, and secretary of state. They will need to strategize on taking back the state House, maintaining their majority in the state Senate, and protecting their U.S. Senate seat. Vice Chairs Cracchiolo and Kinloch emphasized the importance of listening to the concerns and desires of Michigan voters to guide the party’s messaging and policies moving forward.
Democrats faced challenges in the 2024 election, with Vice President Kamala Harris receiving fewer votes than President Joe Biden in key Democratic strongholds like Wayne County and Oakland County. The new chair will be tasked with improving turnout in the upcoming midterm elections and addressing the concerns of voters who felt disconnected with the party.
Barnes, who led the party through significant victories in 2022, expressed her excitement to step down and spend more time with her family while continuing the fight for justice. The Michigan Democratic Party looks ahead to new leadership that will guide them through upcoming elections and address the party’s challenges.
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