Great Lakes Wire

Democrats gathered at their state convention in Detroit, where former state Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. won the chair position unopposed. Despite the event's success, attendees voiced frustrations with various aspects of the party and its processes.

Long lines for voting credentials were a point of contention, alongside dissatisfaction with legislators who blocked Michigan Supreme Court’s adopt-and-amend ruling from enacting 2018 ballot proposals. This decision would have phased out sub-minimum wages for tipped employees.

United Auto Workers President Shawn Fain addressed the labor caucus, attributing Trump's presidency to indecision within Democratic ranks: “Trump is president because we have candidates in this party who can’t decide who the [expletive] they want to represent.” This statement received standing ovations and was documented by Detroit One Million.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer's absence was noted due to her attendance at the National Governors Association meeting in Washington, D.C. Some members expressed disappointment over her lack of vocal opposition against President Trump. Dona Pennington, chair of the Progressive Democratic Women’s Caucus in Muskegon County, expressed her desire for Whitmer to be more outspoken on various issues.

Wayne State University student Nuzmeya Abdrabboh criticized the Michigan Democratic Party for not opposing Attorney General Dana Nessel’s charges against student protesters. She emphasized that many students face legal repercussions for demonstrations related to university financial ties with Israel.

Sharon Bell, a long-time autoworker and UAW member, highlighted concerns about extreme politics and urged Democrats to focus on middle-class opportunities and neighborhood improvements.

The convention featured over 2,000 participants despite cold weather and lengthy lines. Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson launched her gubernatorial campaign during the event. Various other political figures were present or had supporters advocating for them.

In response to logistical issues at the Renaissance Center venue, Hertel mentioned potential changes for future events: “No offense to the location, we probably won’t be coming back here.”

Hertel was initially set to compete against Al Williams but ultimately ran unopposed as Williams did not meet signature requirements. The new first and second vice chairs are Portia Roberson and Shahin Hassan.

Hertel concluded by stating his intent to advocate loudly for party members: “My responsibility is to the people of this party and the people of this state (on how) to fight back.”