UM Regent Accused of Sending Obscene Messages Before Key Election

Report alleges Jordan Acker made lewd comments about Democratic strategist and female student

Apr. 18, 2026 at 9:11pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and waves of vibrant colors, representing the turbulent political situation surrounding the allegations against Regent Acker.The allegations against Regent Acker threaten to upend the upcoming election for the University of Michigan Board of Regents.Ann Arbor Today

A report by The Guardian alleges that University of Michigan Regent Jordan Acker made inappropriate and obscene comments about a Democratic party strategist and a female U-M student in messages from 2020 and 2021. The allegations come just days before a pivotal primary election for two open seats on the University of Michigan Board of Regents.

Why it matters

The accusations against Acker, who has been endorsed by several high-profile Michigan politicians, could have significant implications for the upcoming primary election for the UM Board of Regents. The report has the potential to sway voters and impact the outcome of the election.

The details

According to The Guardian's report, the messages allegedly made lewd and inappropriate comments about a Democratic party strategist and a female U-M student. Acker's attorney has denied the authenticity of the messages, claiming they are fabricated and that The Guardian failed to properly investigate the evidence of fabrication.

  • The alleged messages were sent in 2020 and 2021.
  • The primary election for two open UM Board of Regents seats is scheduled for this Sunday, April 19, 2026.

The players

Jordan Acker

A University of Michigan regent who has been accused of sending inappropriate and obscene messages about a Democratic strategist and a female U-M student.

Ethan Holtz

Jordan Acker's attorney, who has denied the authenticity of the messages and claimed they are fabricated.

Gretchen Whitmer

The Governor of Michigan who has endorsed Jordan Acker.

Mallory McMorrow

A Michigan state senator who has endorsed Jordan Acker and called the alleged messages "disgusting" if true.

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What they’re saying

“if these messages are true, then they are disgusting.”

— Mallory McMorrow, Michigan State Senator

“These supposed Slack messages, which purport to be more than 6 years old, are highly suspicious and exhibit obvious evidence of fabrication. Accordingly, prior to publication, Mr. Acker asked The Guardian for evidence of their authenticity and advised that he would not comment on them until it was provided. What the Guardian provided revealed even more evidence of fabrication - - indeed the supposed Slack messages contain facts and elements that did not even exist at the time they were supposedly written - - thus there is an obvious high probability that these statements are invented, defamatory and are being used to paint Mr. Acker in a false light.”

— Ethan Holtz, Jordan Acker's Attorney

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.