MPLP Alumni Have Huge Election Night

EAST LANSING, Mich., November 5, 2026 – Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) alumni had a tremendous election night, with former members elected to the Governor's mansion, Congress, and the state capital. In addition, MPLP alumni will fill various roles across the state, in local communities and in the judiciary. The night marked several "firsts" for the program: Jocelyn Benson became the first MPLP Alumnist elected governor, and Sean McCann, Christina Hines, and Jeremy Moss shared the honor of being the first MPLP members elected to Congress. 

"We are incredibly proud of our MPLP Alumni and the amazing success they had on Tuesday," said Matt Grossmann, Director of the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR). Grossmann continued, "Our goal for MPLP is to give aspiring leaders the tools they need to lead Michigan successfully in the future. Tuesday's results are proof the hard work is paying off."

Founded in 1992, MPLP has trained over 850 fellows, most of whom go on to serve in elected or appointed office. The Institute for Public Policy and Social Research (IPPSR) at Michigan State University administers the program, which is unique for its bipartisan nature and focus on working across the political aisle.

Each year, MPLP recruits 24 fellows from around Michigan, evenly split between Republican and Democratic applicants. After selection, the twenty-four fellows tour Michigan and discuss significant issues facing the state and local communities with renowned local experts. 

General Election Winners 2026

Governor

Jocelyn Benson (D)

US Congress

Sean McCann (D), 4th District

Christina Hines (D), 10th District

Jeremy Moss (D), 11th District

Michigan Senate

Jason Hoskins (D), 7th District

Chris Moraitis (R), 20th District 

Justin Onwenu (D), 1st District

Sue Shink (D), 14th District

Michigan House 

Ann Bollin (R), 49th District

Brenda Carter (D), 53rd District

Tyrone Carter (D), 1st District

Morgan Foreman (D), 33rd District

Bradley Slagh (R), 85th District

Stephen Wooden (D), 81st District

Mai Xiong (D), 13th District

University Trustee

Jen Flood (D), Michigan Tech University (appointed last month)

County

Joshua Przygocki, Commissioner, Van Buren

School Board

Jenni Attie, Petoskey

Mariah Bryant, Kalamazoo 

Amaad Hardy, Grand Rapids 

Eric John Roberts, Kenowa Hills

Judge

Chris Trebilcock, Court of Appeals, 2nd District

Gary Giguere, Circuit Court, 9th District

Ponce Clay, District Court, 36th District

Jeffery S. Matis, Oakland County Circuit Court, 6th Circuit

Village

Michael Rocholz, President, Schoolcraft

City

Elaina Chase (R), Mayor, Walker

Tina DeMoore, Petoskey City Council

Daniel Rivera, Wyoming City Council

Kelsey Perdue, Grand Rapids, City Commissioner 

District Library Board

Donna Vandervries, Portage

More information on MPLP can be found here. 

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