At the state party convention, Michigan Democratic Party members elected Curtis Hertel to lead Democrats to success in 2026 and beyond

DETROIT -- On Feb 22nd, at the Spring 2025 State convention, the Michigan Democratic Party elected Curtis Hertel as Chair following Lavora Barnes’ decision to step down from the position. As the party transitions into new leadership, former Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Lavora Barnes released the following statement:  

“I am thrilled to be handing off my title to Curtis Hertel, a lifelong champion for workers, teachers, and families here in Michigan. Hertel helped deliver the Democratic majority in the state Senate in 2022, and now he will lead Democrats across the state at every level of the ballot to victory in 2026 and beyond. With rising costs of living, growing extremism, and the constant threats to our freedoms, it is more important than ever that Michigan Dems are united as we fight for Michiganders and their families.”

As he steps into his new role, Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Curtis Hertel released the following statement: 

“Working people deserve better, and I’m ready to roll up my sleeves to ensure Democrats can deliver at every level of the ballot in Michigan. As we face the fiercest test of our democracy in our lifetime, Michigan Democrats are stepping up to fight back and protect our communities all across the state. We are going to hold Republicans accountable for each and every time they’ve sold out middle-class Michiganders to pad the pockets of billionaires. 

“I am so grateful for Lavora Barnes’ years of dedication to this party and to Michiganders across the state. As Barnes has before me, I am going to fight every day to show that the Democratic Party is the party of working people and that we are building a brighter future where everyone can make it in Michigan.”