Six Candidates Will Compete for Michigan Supreme Court
Voters will decide on two seats for the state high court during the upcoming November general election.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Criminal Justice
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Six candidates are vying for two seats on the Michigan Supreme Court in the upcoming November 2026 general election. The results of this race will determine the future composition of the seven-member court, which currently holds a 6-1 Democratic majority.
Why it matters
The election outcome could influence the trajectory of state policies, including those related to abortion access and climate regulations. Voters are selecting justices who will serve eight-year terms on the bench.
The Michigan Supreme Court maintains seven seats, with current justices serving eight-year terms. Two incumbents, Noah Hood and Megan Cavanagh, are running for reelection against Casandra Morse-Bills, Michael Warren Jr., Jody White, and Tom Howe.
The players
Megan Cavanagh
She is an incumbent justice seeking reelection to the Michigan Supreme Court.
Noah Hood
He is an incumbent justice who was appointed to the Supreme Court in 2025.
Michael Warren Jr.
He is a Republican nominee who has served on the bench for over 23 years.
Casandra Morse-Bills
She is a Republican nominee who previously served as a Presiding Judge.
League of Women Voters
This nonpartisan organization hosted a candidate forum for the supreme court contenders.
The details
The League of Women Voters recently hosted a forum for the candidates as they prepare for the November ballot. Notably, reports indicate that U.S. Taxpayers Party nominees Jody White and Tom Howe are not licensed to practice law in Michigan.
Timeline
2018: Megan Cavanagh was first elected to the court.
2019: Casandra Morse-Bills began serving as Presiding Judge.
2025: Noah Hood was appointed to the Supreme Court.
Last week: The League of Women Voters held a candidate forum.
November 2026: The statewide judicial election occurs.
Legal Context
This race adheres to the constitutional framework governing the Michigan Supreme Court, where justices are elected to staggered eight-year terms. The election functions within established state election law, determining the court's partisan balance for the coming cycle.
Residents should be aware that the elected justices will serve eight-year terms, directly impacting how the state interprets laws regarding civil liberties and administrative regulations. Voters are encouraged to review candidate qualifications before the November election.
The takeaway
Voters will play a decisive role in shaping the judicial philosophy of the state's highest court through their choices this November. Reviewing the licensing and experience of all ballot candidates ensures an informed vote in the upcoming election.
Further reading
For more on how judicial elections influence state law, visit Criminal Justice.
Source note: This article includes information reported by 9 & 10 News.
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Should judicial elections be strictly non-partisan to ensure fairness in the legal system?
