Michigan
#Michigan#
##Justices##
- Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly – Term expires (due to age-limit restrictions) 2013 (leans progressive)
- Justice Mike Cavanaugh – Term expires 2015 (leans progressive)
- Justice Brian K. Zahra – Term expires 2012 (leans conservative)
- Robert P. Young, Jr. – Term expires 2019 (leans conservative)
- Justice Mary Beth Kelly – Term expires 2018 (leans conservative)
- Justice Stephen Markman – Term expires 2013 (leans conservative)
- Justice Diane Marie Hathaway – Term expires 2016 (leans progressive)
##About the court##
The Michigan court is technically “non-partisan”, however elections themselves become very partisan, with political parties nominating candidates. As a result, there has been a clear, and often contentious, division between conservative and progressive members of the Michigan Supreme Court. Thankfully, with the election of Democrat Marilyn Kelly as Chief Justice, Michigan’s Supreme Court has improved its reputation; now focusing more on issues and precedent instead of special, political interests (funders).
Unfortunately, this is Chief Justice Kelly’s last term since the Michigan Supreme Court has age-limits which will force the well-liked and respected “Chief” to leave office. While partisanship on the Court had been under control, Justice Kelly’s open seat will very likely ignite great interest and competition from the Republican party which has clung for many years to a 4-3 narrow majority in the court. It is also important to note that two additional conservative-leaning Justices, Zahra and Markman, will also face re-election in 2012
Winning all 3 seats is a top goal of the Democratic Party and our allies.