Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II has dedicated his career to solving problems. A software engineer by training, he uses thoughtful and fact-based practices to make government work better for Michigan families on issues like entrepreneurship, criminal and juvenile justice, health care, affordable housing, and economic opportunity. He is committed to building a Michigan where every person can reach their full potential.

As leader of statewide task forces on jail, pretrial incarceration, and juvenile justice, he worked across the aisle to champion historic legislation to build a smarter and fairer justice system that saves taxpayer money and helps hundreds of thousands of Michiganders access better opportunity for jobs and housing.

As chair of Michigan’s COVID-19 Racial Disparities Task Force, Lt. Governor Gilchrist acted decisively to respond to the pandemic’ disproportionate impact on communities of color. Michigan led the nation in tackling racial disparities and continues to expand access to affordable, equitable health care.

He has led efforts to connect over 27,000 homes and businesses to reliable, affordable fast internet, expand innovation, and make Michigan the best place to have an idea. He embarked on statewide “Thriving Cities” tours visiting communities in every region to hear from Michiganders about the issues that matter. He also served as chair of the National Lieutenant Governors Association.

Lt. Governor Gilchrist and his wife, Ellen, reside in Detroit where they are raising their twins, Emily and Garlin III, and daughter, Ruby.