Our Favorite Progressive Candidates in 2026 - Kelly Garrett, Michigan House of Representatives District 18

Due to the large number of retirements this year, a lot of seats are opening up. Some are quitting politics for good, while others are launching campaigns for other elected office. In Michigan’s 18th District, State Representative Jason Hoskins, the incumbent, is giving up his seat to run for Michigan State Senate. Into this vacancy stepped millennial Mykale (Kelly) Garrett (she/her). Kelly is being endorsed in her race by US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib, a Democratic Socialist who defeated a primary challenge from Kelly in 2022. As mayor of Lathrup Village, she advanced key initiatives focused on public safety, infrastructure, and community engagement. Kelly credits her Christian faith with shaping her views on protecting women’s rights (including reproductive and voting), protecting trans individuals from violence and discrimination, and ensuring that all children have access to quality education.

Where are you based?
Lathrup Village, Michigan, just outside of Detroit.

What is your position / what position are you running for?
I am running for Michigan State Representative for the 18th District.

How would you briefly summarize your platform?
I want to be the State Representative who truly stands with everyday, hard working people in Michigan. I understand the pressure families face trying to make ends meet while still taking care of their homes and loved ones. My goal is to fight for policies that ensure people can put food on the table, keep gas in their cars, stay warm in the winter, and earn a livable wage while being protected in the workplace.

What inspired you to run?
Michigan needs leaders who understand real pressure and are willing to put people first. I have always fought for what the Bible calls “the least of these.” When I look at what is happening in Lansing, I know we need more voices willing to stand up and advocate for those who feel unheard or overlooked.

What change are you hoping to bring to your district and the country?
I want to help change how we work together for the people we represent. That means working across the aisle when necessary to deliver real solutions for Michiganders. If we focus on collaboration instead of division, we can make meaningful progress that benefits communities not just in my district, but across the country.

How long have you been in office?
I have served on the Lathrup Village City Council for nearly 15 years, including eight years as Mayor. I currently serve as Mayor Pro Tem so I can focus on my State Representative campaign.

What do you consider to be your major accomplishments so far?
One of my proudest accomplishments was helping secure approximately $7.2 million in state and federal funding for the City of Lathrup Village, which was unprecedented for our community. Those resources helped strengthen our infrastructure and support long-term growth for our city.

What do you feel are the most important issues right now, why, and how do you plan to tackle them?
There are several issues that demand urgent attention at the same time. We must protect women’s rights, including legislation like the SAVE Act, which could threaten voting access for women whose legal names have changed after marriage. We must also improve education outcomes for our children, especially raising literacy rates across Michigan.

At the same time, we must continue to defend reproductive freedom and ensure that our transgender community is safe and protected. Addressing these issues requires leadership that listens, builds coalitions, and focuses on solutions that protect people's rights and dignity.

America is extremely divided these days. How would you hope to bridge that divide with your constituents to better unite Americans?
We have to stop making every issue about party labels. People on both sides of the aisle are struggling. My approach is simple: put the people first. I am willing to work with anyone, regardless of political affiliation, if it means delivering results for the people we serve.

How do you see your unique identity and background as an asset in office?
Every challenge I’ve experienced has shaped the leader I am today. I lead with both strength and compassion, and I bring real-life experience to public service. For the past 15 years I have served in local government without pay while also working full-time in the private sector, so I understand the realities everyday people face. I’m not a career politician, I’m a true public servant.

What is your motto in life?
“No mud. No lotus.” Growth and transformation often come from the hardest seasons.

Where can we find out more about you?
www.voteforkellygarrett.com
Instagram: @justkelly1008
Facebook: @kellygarrettforcommunity