Dearborn attorney wins UM regent nomination over incumbent

Amir Makled defeats Jordan Acker in heated Democratic primary race

Apr. 20, 2026 at 4:16am

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A dimly lit, cinematic painting of an empty university lecture hall, with warm sunlight and deep shadows creating a contemplative mood about the purpose of public higher education.The heated race for a seat on the University of Michigan's governing board reflects broader debates over the role of public universities in serving student needs.Today in Detroit

Amir Makled, a Dearborn-based attorney who represented University of Michigan student protesters, has defeated incumbent Regent Jordan Acker in the Democratic primary race for a seat on the university's governing board. Makled's victory comes as fellow incumbent Paul Brown retained his nomination for the Board of Regents.

Why it matters

The University of Michigan Board of Regents plays a crucial role in setting policies and overseeing the state's flagship public university. Makled's win represents a shift in the board's composition, potentially signaling a change in priorities and approach as the university navigates challenges around student activism, affordability, and its public mission.

The details

Makled, who has a history of representing student protesters at the University of Michigan, positioned himself as a champion for student voices and concerns during the campaign. His victory over the incumbent Acker suggests that Democratic primary voters were responsive to his message and desire for a more student-centric approach on the board.

  • The Democratic primary election was held on April 19, 2026.

The players

Amir Makled

A Dearborn-based attorney who has represented University of Michigan student protesters and won the Democratic nomination for a seat on the university's Board of Regents.

Jordan Acker

The incumbent University of Michigan Regent who was defeated by Makled in the Democratic primary election.

Paul Brown

The incumbent University of Michigan Regent who retained his nomination for the Board of Regents.

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What they’re saying

“To these students, the students who spoke up, the students who organized, the students who refused to let anyone tell them that their education wasn't worth fighting for, you all reminded us what a public university is supposed to be,”

— Amir Makled, Dearborn attorney and UM regent nominee

What’s next

Makled will now advance to the general election in November 2026, where he will face the Republican nominee for the open UM regent seat.

The takeaway

Makled's victory signals a potential shift in the priorities of the UM Board of Regents, with a greater emphasis on student concerns and activism. This could have significant implications for the university's policies and direction in the coming years.