LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer plans to appoint the first Black woman to the Michigan Supreme Court, a spokesman said Tuesday.
Kyra Harris Bolden is Whitmer's choice to fill the seat vacated by the resignation of Justice Bridget McCormack, spokesman Bobby Leddy said.
An afternoon announcement was planned.
Bolden is a state lawmaker from the Detroit area who has been a licensed lawyer for only eight years. She was a Democratic nominee for the Supreme Court in the Nov. 8 election but finished third in a race for two seats.
Bolden, 34, will join the court in January after her House term expires. Democrats will continue to have a 4-3 majority on the court.
“Kyra is passionate about the law and will be the first Black woman ever to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court,” Whitmer said. “She will bring a unique perspective to our high court as a Black woman — and as a new working mom — that has too long been left out.”
Black men from both political parties have served as Supreme Court justices.
Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a statement on Bolden’s appointment.
“The composition of our courts should reflect the population its rulings impact. I commend the Governor for selecting Kyra Bolden to serve on our state’s highest court. I know Representative Bolden to be a sincere, caring and thoughtful person who will always take into consideration the substantial impact of each and every one of her opinions. She will serve the state with integrity and humility and will do so honorably.”
The Michigan Democratic Party released the following statement from Chair Lavora Barnes on the appointment of Kyra Harris Bolden to the State Supreme Court.
"I am thrilled with the appointment of Kyra Harris Bolden to the State Supreme Court. As a state legislator with her record of standing up for Michigan families and seeking justice for everyone, Harris Bolden will bring a vital voice to the court. As the first Black woman on the court she will bring a new and needed perspective and approach to tackling whatever challenging issues come before her."
On Tuesday, Michigan House Speaker-Elect Joe Tate released the following statement:
"Today's appointment is another historical milestone for Michigan with the selection of our first Black female Supreme Court Justice. Representative Bolden's reputation as an intelligent and hard-working lawmaker, coupled with her experience as a former litigator, makes her an exceptional addition to the state's highest court.
"A friend and colleague, Kyra will bring her strong work ethic and dedication to the Michigan Supreme Court. She will continue to serve the people of Michigan based on a solid track record of fairness and equity."
