Michigan Senate Democrats have spoken and elected Sen. Winnie Brinks as Senate majority leader — a historic move that makes her the first woman to serve in this position in the state’s history, FOX 18 reported.
Brinks, a Grand Rapids Democrat, was unanimously elected on Thursday, November 10.
Senator Brinks released a statement after her historic election.
“I am honored to be elected by my peers to lead the first Democratic Majority in the Michigan Senate since 1983. Along with Democratic leadership in the House and governor’s office, we are ready to lead a legislature that prioritizes people over politics.
“With 12 women and eight men, the Senate Democrats make up a dynamic, diverse caucus that is ready to work with Governor Whitmer to make the Great Lakes State a place where people can thrive and I’m excited to lead this talented team of legislators. As a majority for the people, we will prioritize the needs of Michigan residents and the rights they deserve in everything we do. Creating good-paying jobs and safe work environments, making health care accessible and affordable, delivering our kids the world-class public education they deserve, and ensuring equality for all are just some of the fundamental values we will uphold.”
Brinks will replace Republican Mike Shirkey. Brinks’ win was part of a larger win across the Michigan legislature as Democrats now have control over both the House and Senate in the midterm election, which has not happened in more than 40 years.
Senator Brinks is the first woman to represent Grand Rapids in the Michigan Senate since Eva McCall Hamilton was elected in 1920.
As the daughter of dairy farmers and Dutch immigrants, Brinks, before her election to the Michigan House of Representatives, was a caseworker at The Source. While there, she helped businesses and nonprofits improve workplaces to grow and retain employees. She also previously served as the executive director of a community-based corrections agency and as a school paraprofessional.
Brinks is a graduate of Calvin College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish with a concentration in sociology.
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