Megan Cavanagh has been selected as the new chief justice for the Michigan Supreme Court, following Elizabeth Clement’s upcoming departure by the end of April. The justices made the unanimous decision to ensure a smooth transition and maintain commitment to the court’s path. Governor Gretchen Whitmer will appoint a replacement for Clement, potentially creating a 6-1 majority of Democratic-backed justices.
While Michigan justices are technically nonpartisan, they are usually nominated by state parties or appointed by the governor in case of a vacancy. Cavanagh, who narrowly won against an incumbent justice in 2018, is backed by Democrats and will be up for another term in 2026.
Clement, appointed by Republican Governor Rick Snyder in 2017, will leave to join the National Center for State Courts as president. Cavanagh emphasized the importance of collaboration and cooperation in building public trust in the government branch. The Michigan Supreme Court currently holds a 5-2 majority of Democratic-backed justices after gaining a seat in the recent election. The replacement will have to run for retention in 2026 for a full eight-year term.
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