LANSING, Mich. — The chief justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, Elizabeth Clement, announced her resignation on Wednesday, with plans to step down by the end of April. This decision paves the way for the possibility of a 6-1 majority of justices aligned with Democratic views on the court.
While Clement did not specify her reasons for leaving, she expressed gratitude for her time on the bench. “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 in an announcement. “I am thankful to my colleagues for their support and friendship, as well as for their willingness to seek common ground in serving the people of Michigan.”
Although Michigan’s justices are labeled as nonpartisan, their nominations are influenced by political affiliations, with parties recommending candidates or governors appointing justices when a seat becomes vacant. At present, the court is dominated by a 5-2 majority of justices supported by the Democratic party, a shift that occurred after a successful election last November.
With Clement’s departure, Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer will have the power to appoint a new justice, potentially strengthening the Democratic majority to 6-1. The appointee will be required to run for retention in 2026 for a full term of eight years.
Clement has been a member of the Michigan Supreme Court since her appointment by Republican Governor Rick Snyder in 2017. She later won a full term during the 2018 general election, which was scheduled to conclude in 2026, and was elected Chief Justice in November 2022.
In her statement, Clement remarked on her future intentions: “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.”
