Jody White’s Unconventional Michigan Supreme Court Candidacy Explored

Real Estate Broker Jody White Runs for Michigan Supreme Court

Jody White, a seasoned real estate broker from Southeast Michigan, is stepping into the political arena once again, this time aiming for a seat on the Michigan Supreme Court. Previously, White ran for the state Senate in 2022 and the state House of Representatives in 2018. Despite her lack of legal credentials, she is determined to make her mark on the judiciary.

During an interview with Michigan Public’s Morning Edition host Doug Tribou, White discussed her motivations and the challenges she faces as a candidate. While judicial candidates in Michigan appear on the ballot without party labels, political parties still nominate individuals for the court. White has been chosen by the U.S. Taxpayers Party of Michigan, joining a court currently comprising six Democratic and one Republican nominee.

White’s Qualifications and Concerns

Doug Tribou raised the issue that White, as a non-attorney, does not meet the legal requirements to serve as a Supreme Court justice in Michigan. The state mandates that justices must be licensed to practice law and have at least five years of legal experience. White, however, argues that her background in real estate equips her with a deep understanding of property rights and probate issues.

“I am part of the National Association of Realtors and the Michigan Association of Realtors,” White explained. “Those are memberships. I get a membership card. And I actually have a state license to practice the field of real estate, which is ownership, title work, lending.”

White’s candidacy is driven by her belief that the judiciary has been dominated by a “close network of bar members” for too long. She aims to challenge this status quo and advocate for transparency and fairness in the legal system.

Legal Hurdles and Public Perception

Acknowledging the legal requirements, Tribou pointed out that White cannot meet these by January when elected officials are sworn in. Nonetheless, White remains undeterred, asserting that she practices law in a broader sense through her compliance with legal standards in her profession.

White’s stance is that the legal community functions as a trade organization, akin to the real estate sector. She believes that her candidacy offers voters a chance to question the current system: “My candidacy asks voters to examine whether exclusive professional control over eligibility and judicial administration continues to serve the public interest.”

As the election approaches, White hopes voters will consider her perspective and the need for change within the Michigan judiciary. For those interested in further details, the full interview is available in the video above.

For more information, visit Judge Michael Warren’s profile or learn about another candidate, Tom Howe.