LANSING, MI – On the heels of Michigan Democrats’ blue wave of victories Tuesday, the House Democrat Caucus today selected Rep. Joe Tate, D-Detroit, as the next Speaker for the 2023-24 legislative session.
The support of his colleagues is contributed, in part, to his leadership in raising record-level funds to boost key races across Michigan. Those efforts helped incumbents and candidates secure 56 seats in the 110-member chamber.
Tate currently serves as Democrat vice chair of the powerful House Appropriations Committee. During his tenure, he heralded four bills through the Legislature and enactment by Governor Whitmer.
“I am proud to serve alongside my esteemed colleagues as Speaker of the House,” said Tate. “Together, we will shape sound policy that positively impacts our state and generates opportunities for all Michiganders to reach their full potential. I am confident that we are destined to do great works in the days before us.”
In the next several weeks, Tate will name House committee chairs as well as key staff appointments. The 102nd Legislative Session begins Jan. 1, 2023.
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ABOUT SPEAKER JOE TATE
A Detroit native, Rep. Tate learned the value of service from his parents, a teacher in the Detroit public school system and a Detroit firefighter. Teamwork, commitment and community have shaped his life.
As a teenager, Tate earned a scholarship to play football at Michigan State University, becoming the captain of the team. After joining the National Football League, he went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, deploying twice to Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom.
He received an honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, leading him to earn both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Science in Environmental Policy and Planning from the University of Michigan. Prior to his legislative election, Rep. Tate helped small businesses grow in his capacity as a program manager for the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation.