LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – On Tuesday afternoon, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she will appoint Kyra Harris Bolden to the Michigan Supreme Court in January 2023 to succeed outgoing Chief 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 state’s highest court.  Harris Bolden lost a bid to serve on the Michigan Supreme Court in the Nov. 8 election. She came in third of the five on the ballot, losing to incumbents Richard Bernstein and Brian Zahra.

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“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,” Whitmer said in a press release. “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.”

Harris Bolden is currently serving as a state representative for the 35th District.

“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.”

She also added, “I am ready to get to work on behalf of all Michiganders.”

Harris Bolden must run for re-election in the Nov. 2024 election to complete the remainder of McCormack’s term and then again in the 2028 general election if she wants to serve another full, eight-year term after that, per a court spokesperson.

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This appointment is not the news story from the Michigan Supreme Court this week. On Monday, Elizabeth Clement was selected as the new Chief Justice.