Want to hear more about the current (and past) candidates that The People’s Coalition has endorsed?

Also, listen to our past candidate forums that we have hosted?

More information on candidates we endorsed (current and past), candidate forums, elections and key races:

ENDORSEMENT FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 7

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of William Lawrence for Congress, in Michigan’s Congressional District 7 (CD 7).

Will Lawrence is running as a Democrat to unseat current Congressman Tom Barrett and represent Michigan’s 7th Congressional District. He is independent of DC insiders and unbought by corporate money.

Will is an accomplished community organizer with a track record of success at local, state, and federal levels. He is a co-founder of the nationwide Sunrise Movement, as well as Lansing Rent Is Too Damn High, and the Mid-Michigan Tenant Resource Center. His work has passed laws to build affordable housing, lower energy bills, and invest in union manufacturing here in Mid-Michigan. He is a coalition-builder who knows how to bring people together to get things done, even against the odds.

Will’s deep passion for a long list of people-centered issues illustrates the commitments he’ll make to ensure that mid-Michigan is thriving; its people, its economy, its land, water and air. Will has a moral clarity that is refreshing, and is unafraid to take a stand and fight for Michiganders to have the quality of life we all deserve. He knows how to get things done, build coalitions and long-lasting partnerships and relationships, which is core to movement building and also to pushing for progress in Congress.

We wholeheartedly endorse Will Lawrence for Congress in CD 7, and we encourage all residents of CD 7 to mobilize and support his campaign.

Remember to VOTE in the AUGUST 4th Primary and support Will Lawrence for Congress!

ENDORSEMENT FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 1

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Kyle Blomquist for Congress, in Michigan’s Congressional District 1 (CD 1).

Kyle Blomquist is an Architect, father, and life-long resident of the Upper Peninsula. Kyle attended Grand Valley State University majoring in engineering and art history, later transferring to the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee where he attended the School of Architecture and Urban Planning (SARUP), focused on green building systems, social housing, urban agriculture, and infrastructure right-sizing to fill vacancy and combat gentrification.

Kyle and his wife, Megan operate a small Architectural firm in his hometown. Kyle currently serves as Mayor Pro Tem and has been a member of the Iron Mountain City Council for over 11 years, and had previously served on the Iron Mountain Planning Commission and the Downtown Development Authority’s Business Development committee.

Kyle’s lifelong loyalty to Northern Michigan is apparent, and is his focus on working to address core Democratic issues around climate, environment, healthcare access, social justice and equity issues. He understands deeply the needs of his community, and is also able to apply the same principles of care and support to a Michigan lens and even a nationwide and global lens.

We wholeheartedly endorse Kyle Blomquist for Congress in CD 1, and we encourage all residents of CD 1 to learn more about Kyle and support his campaign.

Remember to VOTE in the AUGUST 4th Primary and support Kyle Blomquist for Congress!

ENDORSEMENT FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 12

We are proud to announce our wholehearted endorsement of Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for Congress, in Michigan’s Congressional District 12 (CD 12).

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib has been breaking barriers her whole life. She grew up the eldest of 14 children in a working class family in southwest Detroit, the proud daughter of Palestinian immigrants. She has made history as the first Muslim woman ever elected to the Michigan Legislature, one of the first two Muslim women in the U.S. Congress, and the first Palestinian-American woman to serve in Congress.

Throughout her time in office, she’s focused on helping her constituents get through everyday challenges, while holding corporate polluters and billionaires accountable for taking advantage of the communities she represents. A bold, transformative leader and public servant, Congresswoman Tlaib is fighting for families of all backgrounds, especially people who’ve been left out and marginalized.

Known as a passionate advocate and fighter for her constituents, for Michiganders, and for marginalized people, Congresswoman Tlaib is a champion we need to keep in Congress! She has worked tirelessly to address the needs of CD 12 constituents, and we know she will continue to do just that if re-elected.

We enthusiastically endorse Rashida Tlaib for Congress in CD 12, and we encourage all residents of CD 12 to mobilize and support her re-election campaign.

Remember to VOTE in the AUGUST 4th Primary and support Rashida Tlaib for Congress!

ENDORSEMENT FOR US SENATE

We proudly and unequivocally endorses Abdul El-Sayed for U.S. Senate.

At a moment of profound crisis—when fascism is on the rise, ICE is tearing families apart, working people are being crushed by corporate greed, and too many Michiganders are forced to choose between rent, groceries, and lifesaving healthcare—Michigan needs a Senator who will fight back; a leader who will stand with the people, not powerful special interests. Abdul El-Sayed is that leader.

Abdul brings the rare combination of moral courage, deep expertise, and lived commitment to public service that this moment demands. He understands that the government must work for the people—and that justice, dignity, and care are not privileges, but something we all deserve. His leadership is grounded in empathy, science, and a relentless belief that a better future is not only possible, but necessary.

The People’s Coalition is a grassroots, people-powered organization committed to justice, equity, and an inclusive democracy. We are proud to stand with Abdul El-Sayed, who as U.S. Senator will listen to the people, fight for the people, and deliver real, material change.

Michigan’s future is on the line. The People’s Coalition is all in for Abdul —and we urge the people of Michigan to be all in too. We look forward to organizing alongside communities across Michigan to mobilize voters, build power, and win this critical election.

ENDORSEMENT FOR MICHIGAN SECRETARY OF STATE

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Garlin Gilchrist II for Michigan Secretary of State.

The People’s Coalition is proud and fired up to endorse Garlin Gilchrist for Michigan Secretary of State.

This race is about the future of our democracy. Garlin has the vision, integrity, and backbone to defend voting rights, expand access to the ballot, and stand up to attacks on our democratic systems. He understands that democracy only works when everyone can participate — no exceptions.

We’re organizing, mobilizing, and standing with Garlin because Michigan deserves leadership that fights for the people, protects our votes, and refuses to back down. The stakes are high — and so is our commitment.

ENDORSEMENT FOR MICHIGAN STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 35

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Dr. Pamela Pugh for State Senate, in District 35.

Dr. Pugh is a lifelong advocate for healthier, safer, and more equitable communities with a 25-year track record of delivering for Michigan families. Dr. Pugh has lived in Saginaw County for 54 years, and earned a Master of Science and Doctor of Public Health from the University of Michigan. Her career has been grounded in science, service, and a deep commitment to equity and justice.

During her time with the Saginaw County Health Department, she worked alongside community, faith, and government partners to secure millions in funding to address environmental hazards. As Chief Public Health Advisor during the Flint Water Crisis, she stood with residents and led efforts to safeguard public health during one of Michigan’s most devastating environmental emergencies. In her role as President, Michigan State Board of Education, we've seen Dr. Pugh fight to ensure every child has access to a safe, inclusive, and well-funded public school.

Now, Dr. Pugh is running for the Michigan State Senate to bring her proven leadership and deep community roots to the State Capitol.

We wholeheartedly endorse Dr. Pamela Pugh for Michigan State Senate, District 35 and encourage all Michiganders to join us in supporting her campaign in the next few crucial weeks by volunteering, phonebanking, etc.

ENDORSEMENT FOR UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN BOARD OF REGENTS

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Amir Makled for University of Michigan Board of Regents.

The People’s Coalition proudly announces our enthusiastic endorsement of Amir Makled for University of Michigan Regent.

A seasoned civil rights attorney, Makled has represented clients in serious injury, civil rights, and complex criminal cases in state and federal courts, building a reputation as a fierce advocate who challenges powerful institutions and defends constitutional rights.

Over the past two years, the current Board of Regents has made regressive decisions that undermine equity, access, transparency, and free speech for students, staff, and faculty, including: Eliminating DEI, Ending Gender-Affirming Care, Weakening Labor Rights, Cracking Down on Free Speech, Implementing Institutional Silence at a Crucial Time, Spending Excessively on Surveillance; Reducing Transparency and Public Access and Having Poor Leadership and Oversight.

These decisions restrict expression, weaken inclusion, reduce transparency, and damage the university’s credibility and standing. The University of Michigan must do better. The University of Michigan deserves Regents who bring courage, legal insight, and people-centered leadership to the table. Amir Makled is that leader. Michigan needs a Regent who will champion students, defend workers, protect free expression, and stand boldly for equity. Amir Makled is ready to lead that fight.

The People’s Coalition urges voters, students, alumni, staff, faculty, and community supporters to join the movement.

ENDORSEMENT FOR MICHIGAN ATTORNEY GENERAL

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Eli Savit for Michigan Attorney General.

Eli Savit has consistently shown the courage, integrity, and vision we need in Michigan’s top legal officer.
As Washtenaw County Prosecutor, Eli has been a national leader in criminal justice reform—prioritizing public safety while advancing fairness, equity, and accountability. His data-driven, community-first approach has made Michigan a model for modern, compassionate prosecution.

Eli understands that justice isn’t just about convictions—it’s about community. He believes in building safer neighborhoods, protecting civil rights, and ensuring that the law serves everyone, not just the powerful. At a time when our rights are increasingly under threat, Eli brings both deep experience and moral clarity—and he’s proven his values through action, not just words.

When pro-Palestinian speech and protest came under attack, Eli stood up to those who sought to silence and criminalize dissent. He resisted pressure from the University of Michigan to prosecute 64 protest-related cases—ultimately denying charges in 60 of them and reducing the remaining four to misdemeanor diversions, leaving no criminal record and no impact on immigration or employment.

Eli has also taken on corporate polluters, scammers, and slumlords—and won. He’s litigated major civil-rights cases, successfully sued the opioid industry, and led Detroit’s landmark “right-to-literacy” lawsuit on behalf of the city’s schoolchildren. As a practicing environmental lawyer, he’s helped secure victories against Dupont, Chemours, and other major corporate polluters.

Eli Savit has proven he’s a true fighter who won’t bend to powerful interests. As Attorney General, he’ll continue to defend our rights, our environment, and our communities—with integrity, bold leadership, and a deep commitment to justice.

Michigan deserves an Attorney General who will fight for all of us. Eli Savit is ready to lead that fight.

We encourage all Michiganders to join us in supporting Eli Savit for Michigan Attorney General.

ENDORSEMENT FOR MICHIGAN STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION

We are excited to endorse both Tiffany Tilley and Judy Pritchett for re-election to the Michigan State Board of Education.

Tiffany D. Tilley is an author, leader, advocate, and luminary from Detroit with a multi-faceted background that often intersects across education, communications, government, real estate development, community and economic development, and nonprofit leadership. A dedicated public servant, she was elected to the Michigan State Board of Education in 2018 with nearly 1.8 million votes and later ran for Congress in Michigan’s 10th District.

She currently serves as the Co-Vice President of the MI State Board of Education and is passionate about literacy, equitable funding, ECE, college access, mental health, foster youth, social emotional learning, closing the achievement gap and opportunity gaps. As a State Board Member, she has worked to dismantle systemic barriers in education and beyond. Through her development and nonprofit leadership, she has secured approximately $20 million in resources for communities across Southeastern Michigan.

Judith P. Pritchett, Ph.D. (D-Washington Township) was elected to the State Board of Education in 2018. She currently serves as Secretary of the Board. Judith served as an educator and administrator for over 25 years in public education serving many communities in Macomb County including Utica Community Schools, Mount Clemens Community Schools, and Center Line Public Schools. She has worked as a High School Social Studies teacher, a High School Principal, an Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Superintendent of Schools. Prior to her retirement in 2017, she held the position of Chief Academic Officer for the Macomb Intermediate School District.

She is still very active in assisting with educational policy and advocating for equitable opportunities for all students in the state.

Having strong, vocal advocates for inclusive, science-based, accessible education for all students is crucial, now more than ever. We put our support behind these two candidates, and look forward to their continued advocacy.

ENDORSEMENT FOR WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS

We’re proud to endorse two strong candidates for the Wayne State University (WSU) Board of Governors. Each of these candidates would bring principled leadership and fight for the needs of students, faculty, staff, and the broader WSU community.

Richard G. Mack, Jr. is a WSU Law graduate, and a labor attorney with Miller Cohen who has spent his career representing unions in litigation, arbitration, and negotiations across the public and private sectors. He served as chief lawyer for a coalition of nearly 30 Detroit unions during the city’s bankruptcy and currently serves on the Detroit Charter Revision Commission. Mack is also a lecturer at WSU’s Labor Studies Center and serves on the Detroit Branch NAACP executive board.

Shereef Akeel is a WSU alumnus and nationally recognized civil rights attorney named among Forbes’ Top 200 Lawyers in America and a Super Lawyer in Civil Rights. An ACLU Defender of Freedom Award recipient and CPA, Akeel has built his career holding powerful institutions accountable and believes strong universities are built on transparency, safety, fiscal responsibility, and trust.

ENDORSEMENT FOR MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY BOARD OF GOVERNORS

We are proud to announce our enthusiastic endorsement of Sylvia Santana for Michigan State University Board of Governors.

Sylvia Santana is a dedicated public servant currently serving her second term in the Michigan Senate. During her time in office, she has worked to reform Michigan’s justice system, increase funding for public education, strengthen support for local governments, and advance policies aimed at reducing racial disparities in health outcomes.

Throughout her career, Santana has centered the needs of working families and underserved communities, while advocating for equity and opportunity—particularly for women of color in business, education, healthcare, and economic development.

Santana earned her MBA from Michigan State University, giving her a strong connection to the university she now seeks to help govern. Her background in finance and legislative leadership brings valuable experience in oversight, accountability, and responsible stewardship of public institutions.

We are proud to support Sylvia Santana for the MSU Board of Trustees and encourage Michiganders to join us in backing her campaign.

WATCH THE PEOPLE’S COALITION CANDIDATE FORUMS

The People’s Coalition hosted several candidate forums for key important races, including Michigan Attorney General, Secretary of State, WSU Board, and Governor races. We asked many important questions, from fighting fascism, to protecting free speech, to addressing criminal justice reform, to protecting voting rights, and protecting our marginalized communities. We believe it is critical that our current and future electeds address the needs of marginalized people and groups, especially being impacted by state and federal action. Links to video recordings are below.