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Opinion | This is what democracy looks like
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This April’s Michigan Democratic Party Convention on Detroit’s riverfront saw record attendance. More than 7,200 people attended caucus meetings, strategized together and made their voices heard about the direction they want to see our party and our state of Michigan go.
Many takes have been written about the convention, however, I’d like to talk about the beautiful diverse coalition that was built.
The 2026 election at the convention is a reflection of not only our big tent party, but of the makeup of our state. It is a reflection of the needs of our communities. Let’s be clear: This is a coalition ticket. A ticket that I believe will be victorious in November.
What was on display at the convention was a multiracial, working-class coalition and ticket that is focused on justice and the needs of our people. A model of multiracial democracy of a big tent party that is so often spoken of, but rarely exemplified. I’m proud of a ticket that includes many people I’m honored to call friends, especially Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist. The same people who supported Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit for Michigan attorney general, also supported local attorney Amir Makled for the next University of Michigan regent. You could see across the convention floor, attendees wearing stickers supporting both candidates.
The incredible friendship and coalition building between a Black, Jewish and Muslim candidate was both powerful and inspiring to witness. It wasn’t just our young people who showed up, but Michigan Democrats of all ages, from all over the state, coming together to build a slate that our party could be proud of. It felt like the Democratic Party of my father’s, that welcomes people from all backgrounds, even when they don’t agree on every issue. The hope and joy that came out of this coalition was contagious.
At its core, it came down to understanding the importance of bringing people together on common values rather than focusing on what divides us. Too often, our shared humanity gets lost in policing words, and tearing each other down on social media.
Members, not consulting firms, are changing our party and forging a stronger path forward. The connections made at this year’s convention reminded me of 2008 when folks who had never attended a party convention showed up because there was that feeling that all were welcome.
Instead of focusing on the one issue that has caused pain and division, Garlin, Eli and Amir focused on listening and engaging people who have felt rejected by the party in recent years. They didn’t bow down to corporate interests and the naysayers, and instead uplifted people’s rights and ensured no one was left out of the process.
The over 7,200 members showed us that we can win if we build a coalition that is inclusive and one that doesn’t shame people for having different views. This is a blueprint for our state and our country moving forward. Onward to victory in November.
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