Rep. Tlaib Backs Gilchrist for Governor, Citing Support for Working People and Incarcerated Families.
U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib has endorsed Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II for Michigan governor, praising his record on supporting working people, labor unions, and advocating for the rights of individuals re-entering society after incarceration. In a video posted on social media, Tlaib expressed her trust in Gilchrist, citing his commitment to fighting for families and marginalized communities.
Tlaib's endorsement is significant, given her own background as a Palestinian American and her experience as a mother. She highlighted Gilchrist's support for the Clean Slate Program, which aims to automatically clear criminal records for individuals who have completed their sentences and shown no further involvement in crime. The program was enacted under Governor Gretchen Whitmer and has been instrumental in removing barriers to employment and housing for people with past convictions.
Gilchrist's outspoken criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which he called "a genocide," has also drawn attention from progressives and Arab American voters. His refusal to accept donations from pro-Israel groups like AIPAC is seen as a key factor in energizing these communities, particularly ahead of the 2026 Democratic primary.
Tlaib's endorsement is likely to bolster Gilchrist's chances among progressive voters who prioritize economic opportunity and justice reform. With Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, and former Cape Coral Mayor Marni Sawicki also vying for the Democratic nomination, the field is shaping up as a contest between competing visions for Michigan's future.
Gilchrist has positioned himself as a strong advocate for working families and individuals re-entering society. His campaign promises to focus on issues like affordable healthcare, education, and economic development, which have resonated with many voters in Michigan.
U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib has endorsed Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II for Michigan governor, praising his record on supporting working people, labor unions, and advocating for the rights of individuals re-entering society after incarceration. In a video posted on social media, Tlaib expressed her trust in Gilchrist, citing his commitment to fighting for families and marginalized communities.
Tlaib's endorsement is significant, given her own background as a Palestinian American and her experience as a mother. She highlighted Gilchrist's support for the Clean Slate Program, which aims to automatically clear criminal records for individuals who have completed their sentences and shown no further involvement in crime. The program was enacted under Governor Gretchen Whitmer and has been instrumental in removing barriers to employment and housing for people with past convictions.
Gilchrist's outspoken criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza, which he called "a genocide," has also drawn attention from progressives and Arab American voters. His refusal to accept donations from pro-Israel groups like AIPAC is seen as a key factor in energizing these communities, particularly ahead of the 2026 Democratic primary.
Tlaib's endorsement is likely to bolster Gilchrist's chances among progressive voters who prioritize economic opportunity and justice reform. With Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson, and former Cape Coral Mayor Marni Sawicki also vying for the Democratic nomination, the field is shaping up as a contest between competing visions for Michigan's future.
Gilchrist has positioned himself as a strong advocate for working families and individuals re-entering society. His campaign promises to focus on issues like affordable healthcare, education, and economic development, which have resonated with many voters in Michigan.
Rep. Tlaib's endorsement of Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II for governor is a total game-changer 
. I mean, she's not just backing him because he's a Democrat, but because he actually shares her values about supporting working people and families who are struggling to make ends meet 
. His commitment to the Clean Slate Program is so on point – it's like, who wouldn't want to have their record cleared after serving time and showing that they're not a threat? 
Plus, his stance on Israel's military campaign in Gaza is a major win for Arab American voters 
. I'm excited to see how this plays out in the 2026 primary, especially with Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Genesee County Sheriff Chris Swanson throwing their hats into the ring 
. One thing's for sure: Michigan needs someone who's going to fight for economic opportunity and justice reform 
!
. I love that he's all about erasing records and giving people a second chance, it's so empowering! 
. Can't wait to see how this plays out in the primaries 
as someone who's seen firsthand how hard it is to get back on your feet after being incarcerated, i think gilchrist's stance on this is super relatable. and yeah, his criticism of israel's military campaign in Gaza has definitely made him more attractive to ppl in the arab american community... let's keep an eye on this one! 
. I've got two kids myself and it's heartbreaking to see the struggles they face when it comes to finding jobs or housing due to past convictions 
. The Clean Slate Program is a game-changer, let's hope Gilchrist can build on this initiative if he gets elected 
. Let's keep an eye out for how he plans to address affordable healthcare and education in Michigan 
!
. Tlaib's endorsement is def gonna help him out among progresive voters who care about economic oppurtunity & justice reform 
. lets get Gilchrist elected!! 
. But, I gotta wonder if he's taking on the whole Israel situation head-on... is he gonna be able to balance his progressive values with some of the more nuanced issues in Michigan? Only time will tell 
. I'm excited to see how this plays out in the primary - it's shaping up to be an interesting contest! 
I'm literally low-key stoked about Rep Tlaib endorsing Gilchrist for governor!!! 
Tlaib's trust in Gilchrist is legit and I'm hyped for this underdog candidate to bring some real change to Michigan! 
Just dropped some stats that might interest you! 70% of registered Democrats in Michigan support a candidate who prioritizes workers' rights and social justice (source: University of Michigan Polling). Meanwhile, 62% of Americans believe that the US prison system is too harsh (Gallup poll, 2022). With Rep. Tlaib backing Gilchrist for governor, it's likely his platform on economic opportunity and justice reform will resonate with a significant portion of voters! 
As for the election itself, did you know that voter turnout is projected to increase by 15% in the 2026 Democratic primary compared to the previous cycle? 
. Tlaib's endorsement means Gilchrist's got a lot of momentum going into the Democratic primary... we'll see how it all plays out! 
he's all about supporting working ppl, labor unions, & those re-entering society after being incarcerated - like, how cool is that?! 
Tlaib's got love for him and it's clear he's gonna be a strong advocate for families & marginalized communities. 
.