LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) — With November’s elections looming, the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Michigan is, for the first time, spending $2.3 million on campaigns for the two open Supreme Court Seats.
Why the focus on the Michigan Supreme Court?
Supreme Court races, particularly at the state level, rarely draw the kind of attention that Senate or gubernatorial elections do, yet their influence is arguably just as great. Recognizing this, the ACLU, through its Voter Education Fund, is taking an unprecedented step this year by investing heavily in a race that could shift the ideological balance of Michigan’s highest court.
With the overturning of Roe v. Wade by the U.S. Supreme Court, states are now the last line of defense for reproductive rights. The Michigan Supreme Court has the authority to interpret the state’s constitution, which now includes a voter-approved amendment protecting abortion access. Whether that protection endures may very well depend on the outcome of this race.
Who is on the ballot?
Kyra Harris Bolden (Southfield), the only incumbent Justice running, is joined by University of Michigan law professor Kimberly Ann Thomas (Ann Arbor) on the Democratic ticket, both of whom are supported by organizations that favor abortion rights.
Meanwhile, their Republican opponents, Patrick O’Grady (Branch County) and Andrew Fink (Hillsdale), are backed by groups opposing abortion rights, making this race a clear battle over the future of reproductive freedom in Michigan.
The ACLU has its eye on Michigan House races, too.
In addition to the Michigan Supreme Court, the ACLU is also focusing on three closely contested Michigan House districts: the 27th, 55th, and 103rd, according to a Sept. 12 press release. These districts, which include parts of Wayne, Oakland, and northern Michigan, could determine control of the Michigan House, which Democrats currently hold by a narrow margin.
The ACLU plans to engage voters using a variety of platforms, including digital ads, traditional and streaming radio, mailers, text messages, and online streaming content. This effort is part of a larger $25 million national campaign to target down-ballot races.
“Our aim is to ensure the gains we have made in Michigan stay won,” Merissa Kovach, ACLU of Michigan political director, said. “It is imperative that voters are aware of each candidate’s record on reproductive freedom, voting rights, LGBTQ rights, and other civil rights and liberties before casting their votes.”
Leave a Comment
COMMENTS POLICY: We have no tolerance for messages of violence, racism, vulgarity, obscenity or other such discourteous behavior. Thank you for contributing to a respectful and useful online dialogue.