LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced on Tuesday, November 22 that she will appoint Kyra Harris Bolden to the Michigan Supreme Court in January 2023 to succeed Justice Bridget Mary McCormack. Bolden will be the first Black woman to serve on the high court and is the governor’s first appointment to the supreme court.
“Today, I am honored to announce that I will be appointing Kyra Harris Bolden to the Michigan Supreme Court,” said Whitmer. “A state representative from Southfield, former law clerk and litigator, Kyra is passionate about the law and will be the first Black woman ever to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court. 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. Kyra is committed to fighting for justice for generations, and I know she will serve Michigan admirably, building a brighter future for her newborn daughter and all our kids.”
“I am incredibly honored to be chosen by Governor Whitmer for this appointment to the Michigan Supreme Court,” said Harris Bolden. “I will ensure equal access to justice, apply the law without fear or favor, and treat all who come before our state’s highest court with dignity and respect. I also know that this moment – becoming the first Black woman to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court – would not be possible without leaders like Judges Shelia Johnson, Debra Nance, Deborah Thomas, Cynthia Stephens, and Denise Langford Morris. These are the Black women who blazed the path that I seek to follow. I hope that my voice on the Court will inspire future generations to pursue their dreams. I am humbled by this honor, and I am ready to get to work on behalf of all Michiganders.”
Once appointed, Rep. Bolden will serve a partial term expiring at twelve o’clock noon on January 1, 2025. If she wishes to complete the remainder of Justice Bridget Mary McCormack’s term, which expires on January 1, 2029, she will be required to run for re-election in November 2024.
