By Michigan Chronicle Editorial Board
Michigan’s 8.4 million registered voters – including the 1.5 million Wayne County registered voters – are gearing up for the Aug. 5, 2024, statewide primary elections. Detroit, specifically, will play a huge role in the election of the state’s next U.S. Senator, and there are key congressional seats up for a vote as well. The Michigan Chronicle’s editorial board has researched and interviewed several of the candidates who will appear on Detroiter’s ballots, and we’ve made our endorsements below.
President of the United States
Joe Biden-Kamala Harris (This is the name that will be on the ballot, but the vote will be for Harris and her to-be-announced Vice-Presidential candidate.)
The Michigan Chronicle is proud to endorse Kamala Harris for President of the United States. Vice President Harris is a trailblazing leader who embodies the values of justice, equality, and opportunity that our nation was founded upon.
In contrast, the forces of division and authoritarianism, exemplified by Project 2025 and the re-election campaign of Donald Trump, pose a grave threat to our democracy. Their efforts to restrict voting rights, spread disinformation, and undermine the rule of law are a clear and present danger to our democratic institutions.
That’s why we need Kamala Harris now more than ever. Throughout her career, Harris has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to fighting for the marginalized and oppressed. As a prosecutor, she worked tirelessly to hold powerful interests accountable and protect vulnerable communities. As a Senator, she championed progressive policies, from criminal justice reform to affordable healthcare. As a Vice President, she helped erase student debt, helped lower the cost of prescription drugs, and has fought against policies that further disenfranchise marginalized people.
Harris’s vision for America is one of inclusivity, empathy, and strength. She recognizes that our diversity is one of our greatest assets and has proposed bold policies to address the systemic barriers that have held too many Americans back for too long.
We urge our readers to reject the forces of division and authoritarianism and join us in supporting Kamala Harris for President.
United States Senator
Hill Harper
Over the past year, a new leader has emerged with a vision that resonates deeply with the values and aspirations of our communities. Hill Harper, an acclaimed actor, author, and philanthropist, announced his candidacy for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat just over a year ago, and the Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses him. His candidacy represents a transformative opportunity for our state, as Harper has the opportunity to become the thirteenth Black U.S. Senator in the nation’s history.
Harper’s journey is one of resilience and dedication. Born in Iowa, he graduated from Brown University and earned graduate degrees from Harvard Law School and the John F. Kennedy School of Government. Harper’s academic excellence is matched by his commitment to public service, as demonstrated by his extensive work in community development and youth empowerment. His leadership transcends his successful acting career, embodying a genuine dedication to uplifting those around him.
Michigan faces critical challenges, from economic disparities and educational inequities to environmental concerns and healthcare access. Harper’s multifaceted approach to combatting these issues equips him with the insights and innovative approaches necessary to address these issues effectively. His work with The Manifest Your Destiny Foundation, which he founded to empower underserved youth, showcases his ability to turn visionary ideas into tangible, impactful action.
As an advocate for social justice, Harper has consistently used his platform to highlight systemic inequalities and promote meaningful change. His commitment to criminal justice reform, economic revitalization, and educational advancement aligns with the core values of Michigan’s diverse communities. Harper’s candidacy offers a fresh perspective rooted in a deep understanding of the struggles and aspirations of everyday Michiganders.
However, any discussion of this important Senate race would be incomplete without acknowledging Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, Harper’s formidable opponent. Slotkin has served Michigan’s 8th District with distinction, demonstrating a strong commitment to national security and veteran affairs. Her bipartisan efforts and dedication to her constituents have earned her respect on both sides of the aisle. Slotkin’s service record is commendable, and her contributions to our state should not be overlooked.
Yet, in this pivotal moment, Hill Harper’s vision for Michigan’s future deeply aligns with the values of the Michigan Chronicle. His approach to leadership is inclusive, innovative, and rooted in community engagement. Harper understands that real change comes from the ground up, and his proposed policies reflect a commitment to ensuring that all Michiganders have the opportunity to thrive.
Harper’s ability to connect with people from all walks of life, combined with his academic prowess and dedication to social justice, make him uniquely qualified to address the complex challenges facing our state. His leadership promises to bring a new era of advocacy and action to the U.S. Senate.
The Michigan Chronicle believes that Hill Harper’s blend of intellect, compassion, and dedication to transparency makes him the ideal candidate to represent our great state. We urge Michigan voters to support Hill Harper for U.S. Senate, embracing a brighter future for all the state’s residents.
13th District Representative
Mary Waters
As Detroit looks towards a brighter future, the Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Mary Waters for Detroit’s 13th congressional district. Waters, a dedicated public servant and community advocate, brings a wealth of experience and a deeply rooted commitment to the residents of Detroit. Her candidacy offers a much-needed opportunity for effective and responsive representation in Congress.
Waters has a long history of public service and advocacy. Her tenure in the Michigan House of Representatives was marked by tireless efforts to improve the lives of her constituents. As a former State Representative, she fought for policies that supported working families, improved education, and enhanced economic opportunities. Waters’ dedication to public service is underscored by her work in various community organizations, where she has consistently championed the needs of Detroit’s most vulnerable populations.
In contrast, the current representative, Shri Thanedar, has not met the high expectations of Detroit residents. While his business success and story of perseverance are commendable, his tenure in Congress has been marked by a lack of tangible legislative achievements and a disconnect from Detroit residents, despite his boots-on-the-ground approach to engagement with the community. Detroit needs a representative who not only understands the unique challenges the city faces, but also possesses the experience and tenacity to advocate effectively on its behalf.
Waters’ deep connections to the community and her proven track record make her the ideal candidate to address the pressing issues facing Detroit. She understands that economic revitalization must be inclusive, ensuring that all Detroiters benefit from growth and development. Her plans to improve education, healthcare, and housing reflect a comprehensive approach to tackling the systemic issues that have long plagued the city. As a current at-large Detroit City Councilmember, Waters has secured hundreds of millions of dollars to address the lack of homeownership across the city and to improve current housing conditions for residents.
Moreover, Waters’ commitment to social justice and equity is unwavering. She has been a vocal advocate for criminal justice reform, affordable housing, and accessible healthcare. Her hands-on experience and genuine dedication to these causes set her apart as a leader who will not only listen to the concerns of her constituents but also act decisively to address them.
Shri Thanedar’s tenure has highlighted the need for a representative who is more in tune with the community’s needs and more effective in pushing for meaningful change. Detroit deserves a leader who is not just present in title, but active in deeds. Mary Waters embodies the qualities of a true public servant: experience, dedication, and a deep understanding of the community she aims to serve. Additionally – and quite simply – Detroit needs Black representation in Washington, D.C.
The Michigan Chronicle believes that Mary Waters is the right choice for Detroit’s 13th congressional district. Her blend of legislative experience, community engagement, and unwavering commitment to social justice makes her the ideal candidate to lead Detroit towards a prosperous and equitable future. We urge voters to support Mary Waters, embracing a new era of effective and responsive representation in Congress.
Wayne County Sheriff
Raphael “Ray” Washington
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Raphael “Ray” Washington for Wayne County Sheriff. Since being appointed to the position in 2021 and his election to the role in 2022, Washington has successfully overseen runs three jail facilities, Road Patrol, a Marine Unit, a Mounted Unit, and has supplemented law enforcement activities in collaboration with the 43 cities and townships in his jurisdiction (which covers 673 square miles). With a proven track record of reducing crime and enhancing community relations, Washington has demonstrated the leadership and dedication necessary to continue serving the residents of Wayne County effectively.
Sheriff Washington has implemented several innovative strategies that have significantly reduced crime rates across the county. His commitment to modernizing law enforcement practices has included increasing the use of data-driven policing, which has allowed the department to allocate resources more efficiently and target high-crime areas effectively. This approach has not only resulted in a decrease in violent crime but has also improved the overall safety and well-being of our communities.
One of the hallmarks of Washington’s tenure has been his emphasis on community policing. Recognizing that trust and cooperation between law enforcement and the community are essential for effective policing, Washington has worked tirelessly to build and maintain strong relationships with residents. Through regular town hall meetings, community outreach programs, and partnerships with local organizations, he has fostered an environment where citizens feel heard and respected. This proactive engagement has been instrumental in creating a safer and more cohesive community.
Sheriff Washington has also been a staunch advocate for criminal justice reform. Under his leadership, the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office has implemented initiatives aimed at reducing recidivism and providing support for individuals transitioning out of the criminal justice system. Programs focused on education, job training, and mental health services have been pivotal in helping former offenders reintegrate into society and lead productive lives.
Furthermore, Washington’s dedication to transparency and accountability within the sheriff’s office has set a new standard for law enforcement in Wayne County. He has implemented comprehensive training programs on de-escalation techniques, implicit bias, and cultural competency for all officers. These initiatives have not only improved the effectiveness of the department but have also built greater trust within the community.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Washington’s personal commitment to Wayne County is evident in his deep roots in the community. He has consistently shown his dedication to making Wayne County a better place for all residents, and his leadership has been marked by integrity, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.
The Michigan Chronicle believes that Raphael “Ray” Washington, with his four decades of law enforcement experience in Detroit and Wayne County, is the right choice to continue as Wayne County Sheriff. His innovative approach to crime reduction, commitment to community engagement, and advocacy for criminal justice reform make him an exemplary leader. We urge Wayne County residents to support Sheriff Washington in the upcoming election, ensuring that our community continues to benefit from his experience, vision, and unwavering dedication.
Prosecutor
Kym Worthy
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Kym Worthy for Wayne County Prosecutor. Worthy’s extensive experience, commitment to justice, and tireless advocacy for the people of Wayne County make her the ideal candidate to continue leading the Prosecutor’s Office.
Worthy has served as Wayne County Prosecutor since 2004, and her tenure has been marked by numerous achievements and a steadfast dedication to justice. She has tackled some of the most challenging and high-profile cases in the county, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to ensuring that justice is served.
One of Worthy’s most notable accomplishments is her relentless pursuit of justice for victims of sexual assault. She brought national attention to the backlog of untested rape kits in Detroit, leading a comprehensive effort to address this critical issue. Her work has resulted in thousands of kits being tested, numerous convictions, and the implementation of new protocols to prevent future backlogs. Worthy’s dedication to this cause has provided a voice for countless victims and brought long-overdue justice to many.
Worthy’s innovative approach to criminal justice reform has also been a hallmark of her tenure. She has championed programs aimed at reducing recidivism, promoting rehabilitation, and addressing the root causes of crime. Her initiatives have included diversion programs for non-violent offenders, mental health courts, and efforts to improve reentry services for those returning to the community after incarceration.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Worthy has been a steadfast advocate for transparency and accountability within the criminal justice system. She has worked tirelessly to build trust between law enforcement and the community, recognizing that true justice can only be achieved when the system is fair, transparent, and accountable to the people it serves.
The Michigan Chronicle believes that Kym Worthy’s experience, dedication, and proven track record make her the best choice for Wayne County Prosecutor. We urge voters to support her in the upcoming election, ensuring that Wayne County continues to benefit from her exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to justice.
County Clerk
Cathy M. Garrett
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Cathy Garrett for Wayne County Clerk. With a distinguished career marked by integrity, efficiency, and a commitment to public service, Garrett has proven herself as the ideal candidate to continue serving the residents of Wayne County.
Cathy Garrett has held the office of Wayne County Clerk since 2001, and her tenure has been characterized by her unwavering dedication to improving the services provided to the community. She has consistently worked to modernize the Clerk’s Office, implementing innovative solutions to streamline operations and enhance accessibility for all county residents.
One of Garrett’s most significant achievements has been her commitment to ensuring fair and transparent elections. Under her leadership, the Wayne County Clerk’s Office has implemented state-of-the-art voting technology and rigorous security measures to protect the integrity of the electoral process. Her dedication to voter education and outreach has ensured that all residents have the information and resources they need to exercise their right to vote.
Garrett’s focus on customer service is another hallmark of her tenure. She has worked tirelessly to make the Clerk’s Office more user-friendly, reducing wait times and improving the overall experience for residents seeking vital records, business registrations, and other essential services. Her efforts have made the office more efficient and responsive to the needs of the community.
Moreover, Garrett’s commitment to transparency and accountability has set a high standard for public service in Wayne County. She has consistently advocated for open government and has implemented numerous initiatives to ensure that the Clerk’s Office operates with the highest level of integrity and transparency.
The Michigan Chronicle believes that Cathy Garrett’s experience, dedication, and proven track record make her the best choice for Wayne County Clerk. Her leadership has been instrumental in enhancing the services provided by the Clerk’s Office and ensuring that it remains responsive to the needs of all residents. We urge voters to support Cathy Garrett in the upcoming election, ensuring that Wayne County continues to benefit from her exceptional stewardship and unwavering commitment to public service.
5th District County Commissioner
Irma Clark-Coleman
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Irma Clark-Coleman to continue serving as Wayne County’s 5th District County Commissioner. With her extensive experience, dedication, and unwavering commitment to her constituents, Clark-Coleman stands out as the ideal representative for the district.
Clark-Coleman has a distinguished record of more than five decades of public service, marked by her tireless efforts to improve the quality of life for all residents. Her tenure has been characterized by significant achievements in areas such as public safety, education, and economic development. She has been instrumental in securing funding for vital community projects, including improvements to local schools, parks, and infrastructure.
Clark-Coleman’s dedication to social justice and community empowerment has made a lasting impact. She has championed initiatives that support affordable housing, healthcare access, and job training programs, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to thrive. Her focus on building strong, resilient communities is evident in her collaborative approach and her ability to bring together diverse stakeholders to address complex challenges.
Irma Clark-Coleman’s commitment to transparency, accountability, and responsive governance has earned her the trust and respect of her constituents. Her proven leadership and vision for a better Wayne County make her the best choice to continue representing the 5th District.
The Michigan Chronicle urges voters to support Irma Clark-Coleman in the upcoming election, ensuring her a seventh term in her role, and continued progress and effective advocacy for Wayne County’s 5th District.
2nd District County Commissioner
Jonathan Kinloch
The Michigan Chronicle wholeheartedly endorses Jonathan Kinloch for re-election as Wayne County’s District 2 County Commissioner. Commissioner Kinloch has been a beacon of hope and progress for the residents of District 2, working tirelessly to address the unique challenges facing our community.
Throughout his tenure, Commissioner Kinloch has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to social justice, economic empowerment, and community development. His leadership on issues such as affordable housing, workforce development, and criminal justice reform has made a tangible impact on our community. His unwavering dedication to transparency and accountability has earned him the trust and respect of his constituents.
We are impressed by Commissioner Kinloch’s unrelenting passion for serving the people of District 2. His experience, expertise, and collaborative approach to governance make him an invaluable asset to the Commission. We urge our readers to join us in supporting Jonathan Kinloch for re-election as District 2 County Commissioner. With his continued leadership, we can look forward to a brighter future for Wayne County.
7th District County Commissioner
Alisha Bell
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Alisha Bell for County Commissioner of Wayne County’s 2nd District. With a proven track record of dedicated service since first being elected to the role in 2002, Bell has consistently demonstrated her commitment to improving the lives of her constituents.
Bell has been a steadfast advocate for the residents of the 2nd District, tirelessly working to address their needs and concerns. Her tenure as County Commissioner has been marked by significant achievements in public safety, economic development, and community engagement. Bell’s efforts to secure funding for critical infrastructure projects have led to improved roads, enhanced public transportation, and better overall connectivity within the district.
Bell’s leadership extends to her commitment to social services and educational initiatives. She has been instrumental in supporting programs that provide essential resources to families, seniors, and youth. Her focus on fostering educational opportunities and workforce development has helped create pathways to success for many residents.
Alisha Bell’s dedication to transparency, accountability, and community involvement has earned her the trust and respect of her constituents. Her ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders and find innovative solutions to complex challenges makes her an exceptional leader for the 2nd District.
The Michigan Chronicle urges voters to support Alisha Bell in the upcoming election, ensuring continued progress and effective representation for Wayne County’s 2nd District.
3rd District County Commissioner
Martha Scott
The Michigan Chronicle is proud to endorse Martha G. Scott for re-election as Wayne County’s District 3 County Commissioner. Commissioner Scott has been a steadfast champion for the residents of District 3, tirelessly working to address the unique challenges facing our community.
Throughout her tenure, Commissioner Scott has demonstrated a deep commitment to improving the lives of Wayne County residents. Her leadership on issues such as economic development, public safety, and healthcare has made a tangible impact on our community. Her dedication to transparency and accountability has earned her the trust and respect of her constituents.
We are impressed by Commissioner Scott’s collaborative approach to governance, working across party lines to find solutions that benefit all Wayne County residents. Her experience and expertise make her an invaluable asset to the Commission.
We urge our readers to join us in supporting Martha G. Scott for re-election as District 3 County Commissioner. Her continued leadership will ensure that our community remains a priority in Wayne County. Let us re-elect a proven leader who has earned our trust and support.
9th District Representative in State Legislature
Joe Tate
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Joe Tate as the 9th District candidate for Detroit’s representative in the state legislature. Tate’s business acumen and his commitment to public service, community development, and social justice makes him the ideal candidate to represent the needs of Detroiters in Lansing.
As a seasoned leader and advocate and Michigan’s first Black Speaker of the House, Tate has demonstrated a deep understanding of the issues facing our community, from education and economic empowerment to healthcare and criminal justice reform. His collaborative approach and ability to build coalitions will serve him well in the legislature.
We are confident that Joe Tate will be a champion for Detroit’s values and interests in Lansing. He has earned the trust and respect of our community, and we urge our readers to support him in the upcoming election.
11th District Representative in State Legislature
Donavan McKinney
As a dedicated community leader and advocate, Donavan McKinney has demonstrated a deep commitment to addressing the systemic barriers facing our community, and it’s been evident in his first 18 months in office. His vision for a more equitable and just Detroit aligns with our values, and we are confident he will be a champion for our city’s interests in the legislature. He’s a Detroit native, and a young, energetic fighter who holds a degree in public policy from the University of Michigan.
We urge our readers to support Donavan McKinney by re-electing him to the State Legislature in the upcoming election. His leadership, expertise, and collaborative approach make him the perfect candidate to represent the 11th District. Together, we can ensure that Detroit has a strong voice in the state legislature.
1st District Representative in State Legislature
Tyrone Carter
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Tyrone Carter as the 1st District candidate for Detroit’s representative in the state legislature. With several years of experience as an elected official, Carter has consistently demonstrated his commitment to public service and community empowerment.
Throughout his tenure, Carter has achieved numerous successes, including securing funding for community development projects, advocating for education reform, and championing policies to support small businesses and job creation. His leadership and expertise have earned him the respect and trust of our community, but moreover, his leadership is evident by his two-year appointment as House Minority Assistant Leader.
We are confident that Tyrone Carter will continue to be a strong voice for Detroit in the state legislature. His experience, knowledge, and passion for public service make him the ideal candidate to represent the 1st District. We urge our readers to support Carter in the upcoming election, knowing that he will continue to fight for the needs and interests of our community.
4th District Representative in State Legislature
Karen Whitsett
The Michigan Chronicle wholeheartedly endorses Karen Whitsett as the 4th District candidate for Detroit’s representative in the state legislature. Representative Whitsett (running for her fourth term) has consistently demonstrated her commitment to serving the needs of Detroiters, and her accomplishments in office are a testament to her dedication.
One of her top priorities is addressing the skilled trades gap and creating new pathways for career transitions and retraining. This critical issue affects countless Detroit residents, and Whitsett’s leadership has brought much-needed attention and action to the forefront. Her efforts have already led to increased funding for vocational training programs and apprenticeships, providing opportunities for Detroiters to access in-demand jobs, and she will continue those efforts, serving on committees for Economic Development and Small Business, Energy, Communications and Technology, Health Policy (Majority Vice-Chair), and Tax Policy in the House.
We urge our readers to support Karen Whitsett in the upcoming election. Her proven track record, expertise, and passion for serving our community make her the ideal candidate to represent the 4th District.
5th District Representative in State Legislature
Regina Weiss
The Michigan Chronicle endorses Regina Weiss as the 5th District candidate for representation in the state legislature. Weiss’s service as a former Oak Park City Council member and a former Detroit Public Schools teacher has led to her amazing advocacy for equitable education funding, reinvesting in local communities, and further protections for the environment.
We urge our readers to support Regina Weiss in the upcoming election. Her resume of expertise and advocacy, and her passion for serving the district’s residents make her the ideal candidate to represent the 5th District.
8th District Representative in State Legislature
Helena Scott
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Helena Scott as the 8th District candidate for Detroit’s representative in the state legislature. Representative Scott has built a reputation as a tireless advocate for Detroiters, leveraging her extensive experience in community development, education, and public policy to drive meaningful change.
Scott, who currently serves on as Chair of the Communications and Technology Committee, also serves on the Education Committee and the Financial Services Committee, where she has consistently demonstrated her ability to lead and collaborate effectively in the legislature and showcased her commitment to addressing the complex needs of our community.
Scott’s expertise and passion for public service make her the ideal candidate to represent the 8th District. She has regularly and passionately championed policies supporting education, workforce development, and social justice. We urge our readers to support Helena Scott in the upcoming election, confident that she will continue to be a strong voice for Detroit in the state legislature.
Proposition P – Parks Millage Renewal
Vote Yes
The Michigan Chronicle proudly endorses Proposition P, a critical millage renewal that will continue to enhance and operate Wayne County’s parks and recreational facilities. This modest levy of 0.2442 mills, approximately $0.24 per $1,000 of taxable valuation, will generate vital funds to improve and maintain beloved parks like Hines Park, Elizabeth Park, and the Wayne County Family Aquatic Center. It is expected that the millage will cost the average homeowner an additional $12 per year and generate approximately $14 million in 2026, the first year of the four-year millage.
Proposition P ensures equitable distribution of funds, allocating at least $50,000 or 15% of total funds generated from each commission district to municipal parks in all 43 communities. This thoughtful approach guarantees that every corner of Wayne County benefits from this investment.
By renewing this millage, Wayne County can continue to prioritize quality of life, public health, and community development. Our parks are more than just green spaces – they’re hubs for social connection, physical activity, and environmental stewardship.
We urge our readers to vote yes on Proposition P, securing a brighter future for Wayne County’s parks and recreational facilities. This renewal is a wise investment in our collective well-being, and we trust that the funds will be used efficiently and effectively to enhance our community’s quality of life, as money from the millage is used to fund capital improvements, environmental, and infrastructure projects for the 5,600 acres of parks in Wayne County. Let us come together to preserve and improve our precious parks for generations to come. Vote yes on Proposition P.
Proposal L: Library Operating Millage Renewal
Vote Yes
The Michigan Chronicle supports Wayne County’s Proposal L, renewing the millage supporting Detroit Public Libraries. This vital funding ensures our libraries continue to thrive, providing essential resources, programs, and services for Detroiters of all ages. By approving Proposal L, we invest in literacy, education, and community development. The estimated $42 million in annual revenue will help maintain and enhance library operations, benefiting our city’s most valuable assets – our children, seniors, and families. This millage combines two taxes that are currently being paid by Wayne County voters, which is set to expire in 2025. We urge our readers to vote yes on Proposal L, securing a brighter future for Detroit’s libraries and our community.
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