News Summary
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced the appointments of Heather Cummings and Paul Cordes to the Michigan Board of State Canvassers. Cummings, a legal expert in union-side labor law, will represent Democrats, while Cordes, founder of Pantlind Strategies, will represent Republicans. Their terms begin on February 1, 2025, lasting until January 31, 2029. The board is responsible for canvassing statewide elections and overseeing the electoral process in Michigan.
Exciting New Appointments to Michigan Board of State Canvassers!
In a fresh wave of political news in Michigan, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has made some noteworthy appointments that are sure to stir things up a bit! The governor has appointed Heather Cummings and Paul Cordes to the Michigan Board of State Canvassers, and both come with impressive credentials and valuable experience to make an impact!
Meet Heather Cummings
First up is Heather Cummings, hailing from Novi. Cummings is not just any legal mind; she’s the founding partner at Cummings Law Group PLC and boasts an extensive background in legal practices. Cummings will be stepping in to represent the Democrats for a term that kicks off on February 1, 2025, lasting until January 31, 2029. She’ll be taking over the role previously held by Jeanette Bradshaw, who is wrapping up her term.
As a specialist in union-side labor law and employment rights across both state and federal levels, Cummings brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. She is actively involved in various community initiatives, providing pro bono legal services and assisting in election day voter protection efforts. Her commitment to civil rights is clear, especially with her role as a cooperating attorney for the ACLU of Michigan. Moreover, she’s the chair of the ACLU Oakland County Lawyers’ Committee!
Academically, Cummings is no slouch either! She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Alma College, a Master’s in Library Science from the esteemed University of Michigan, and topped it off with a Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School.
Introducing Paul Cordes
Next, we have Paul Cordes joining the ranks, coming from Rockford. Cordes is the founder and owner of Pantlind Strategies and is set to represent the Republicans on the board for the same term as Cummings. His journey also kicks off on February 1, 2025, and will run until January 31, 2029, replacing Anthony Daunt, who is concluding his term.
Cordes has a strong educational background too, holding a Bachelor of Arts in political science from the University of Minnesota. His experience and insights into political strategies will undoubtedly add a dynamic perspective to the canvassing process in Michigan.
What is the Board of State Canvassers?
Now, you might be wondering what exactly the Michigan Board of State Canvassers does. This vital board consists of four members, equally split with two members from each major political party. Their role? It’s pretty significant! The Board’s responsibilities include canvassing and certifying statewide elections, elections involving legislative districts that cross county lines, and overseeing all judicial offices—except for probate court judges, of course.
They also conduct recounts for state-level offices, canvas nominating petitions, and fact-check state-level ballot proposals. Not to mention, the Board plays a pivotal role in assigning ballot designations, adopting ballot language for state proposals, and approving electronic voting systems used throughout Michigan!
Next Steps for Cummings and Cordes
These new appointments are now heading to the advice and consent phase of the Senate, which currently has a Democratic majority. Only time will tell how these two passionate representatives will navigate their roles and make their mark on Michigan’s electoral landscape.
As these changes unfold, residents of Michigan are sure to keep a close eye on the board’s activities—after all, they have a significant responsibility in shaping how elections are conducted in the state! Stay tuned for more updates as Heather Cummings and Paul Cordes dive into their important new positions on the Board of State Canvassers!
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Additional Resources
- The Oakland Press: Gov. Whitmer Appoints Novi Resident to Michigan Board of State Canvassers
- MSN News: Gov. Whitmer Appoints Novi Resident to Michigan Board of State Canvassers
- Michigan Advance: Whitmer Appoints New Members of Key State Election Board
- Google Search: Michigan Board of State Canvassers
- Wikipedia: Michigan Board of State Canvassers
