Michigan Supreme Court Faces Shift as Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement Resigns
In a move that could reshape the composition of Michigan’s highest court, Chief Justice Elizabeth Clement has announced her resignation, effective by the end of April. This departure provides an opening for a potentially significant Democratic influence on the court.
Although Chief Justice Clement did not specify her reasons for stepping down, she expressed gratitude for her tenure. “Leading our state’s highest court has been an opportunity to continue a proud record of independence, fairness, and commitment to the rule of law,” she stated. She also acknowledged the support and camaraderie of her fellow justices.
The Michigan Supreme Court justices, while officially nonpartisan, are often nominated by political parties or appointed by the governor in case of vacancies. Currently, the court holds a 5-2 majority with justices backed by the Democratic Party, which gained a seat in the last November election.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, will appoint a successor to fill Clement’s position. This appointment has the potential to increase the Democratic-backed majority to 6-1. The appointee will be required to run for a full eight-year term in the 2026 retention election.
Initially appointed by Republican Governor Rick Snyder in 2017, Clement secured a full term by winning the 2018 general election, with her current term set to expire in 2026. She ascended to the role of Chief Justice in November 2022.
Looking ahead, Clement emphasized her commitment to fostering collaboration, employing data effectively, and making meaningful impacts on community safety and family strength. “Going forward, my plan is to continue working to find ways to bring people together, to put data to work, and to make a difference in the lives of people so that interactions with our justice system result in safer communities and stronger families,” she said in her statement.
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