NOVI, Mich. — Michigan Republicans moved with unusual discipline Saturday, endorsing a full slate of candidates for key statewide offices during a convention that party leaders described as notably smoother than past gatherings.
Roughly 2,100 delegates convened at the Vibe Credit Union Showplace, where party leadership emphasized preparation and unity as the driving forces behind a convention largely free of the internal disputes that have, in prior years, defined similar events.
Jim Runestad, chair of the Michigan Republican Party, credited behind-the-scenes coordination for the lack of procedural clashes.
“This is what happens when you do the advance work,” Runestad said, pointing to a deliberate effort to resolve disagreements before delegates took the floor.
Key Races: Attorney General and Secretary of State
The convention’s most closely watched contests came in two high-profile races.
Delegates selected Eaton County Prosecutor Doug Lloyd as the Republican nominee for attorney general, defeating Birmingham attorney Kevin Kijewski.
For secretary of state, Macomb County Clerk Anthony Forlini secured the endorsement over Oakland County businesswoman and activist Monica Yatooma and Clarkston school board member Amanda Love.
Both positions are currently held by Democrats, setting up competitive general election battles in November.
Supreme Court and Education Boards
Delegates also endorsed candidates for two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court, backing Oakland County Judge Michael Warren and Oscoda County Judge Casandra Morse-Bills. They are expected to challenge incumbents Megan Cavanagh and Noah Hood, as Republicans aim to chip away at the court’s current Democratic majority.
For the Michigan State Board of Education, delegates endorsed Mount Pleasant small business owner Bree Moeggenberg and financial analyst Terence Collins.
University Boards See GOP Picks
Republicans also filled out their slate for influential university governing boards:
For the Michigan State University Board of Trustees: State Sen. Roger Victory and former Novi City Council member Julie Maday
For the University of Michigan Board of Regents: business executive Lena Epstein and Bloomfield Township trustee Michael Schostak
For the Wayne State University Board of Governors: educator Andy Anuzis and Troy-based financial professional Christa Murphy
A Shift in Tone — and Strategy
Unlike previous conventions marked by procedural disputes and factional clashes, Saturday’s event reflected a more unified party apparatus. Only two races were contested, and both concluded without extended conflict on the convention floor.
The streamlined process suggests a strategic pivot by Michigan Republicans as they prepare for a competitive general election cycle, where control of key statewide offices — including attorney general and secretary of state — could shape election administration, legal battles, and policy direction.
Democrats are expected to finalize their own slate at a convention scheduled for April 19, setting the stage for a high-stakes statewide contest heading into November.
What Comes Next
With endorsements secured, Republican candidates now transition into general election mode, where fundraising, messaging, and turnout operations will determine whether the party can reclaim ground in statewide offices currently held by Democrats.
Saturday’s convention offered a preview of that strategy: less infighting, more coordination — and a clear signal that Michigan Republicans intend to present a unified front in 2026.
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