Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack won reelection Tuesday. She had previously said she would not consider it a victory unless Elizabeth Welch was also elected to the court and indeed she was. McCormack and Welch were the top two vote-getters in a field of six.
McCormack was first elected to the court in 2013 and became chief justice in 2019.
"My reelection to the Michigan Supreme Court is a victory for the people across the state who believe, as I do, that the courtroom is a place where being is right is more important than being popular or powerful," McCormack said in response to her win. "I'm proud that their votes are being counted and their voices are being heard. In the coming term I will continue to fight for the court's independence and for access to justice for all Michiganders.
"I will continue to work to make Michigan a national leader in ensuring transparency, fairness and efficiency in courthouses throughout the state where millions of people go for justice every year," she continued. "To those who supported me and to those who did not, the people of Michigan have my steadfast commitment that I will serve them with the utmost integrity and fairness."
For her part, Welch is an attorney with 25 years of experience. Her focus has been on employment law, public school advocacy, conservation leadership and election protection work. With Welch elected, Democrats take a 4-3 majority on the court. McCormack and Welch will both serve eight-year terms. Welch released this statement after her win:
"After 25 years protecting Michigan small businesses, voters, students, and natural resources, I know the impact the courts can have on our great state," she said. "I am eager to join the chief justice and her colleagues in their important work of addressing challenges within our criminal justice system and their work toward ensuring everyone has equal access to our courts."
