Michigan Democrats nominate Washtenaw County prosecutor for AG

Eli Savit wins party's backing for state attorney general race

Apr. 20, 2026 at 4:06am

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A cinematic painting of an empty courtroom, with warm sunlight streaming in through the windows and deep shadows cast across the benches and podium, creating a somber, contemplative mood.The nomination of a reform-minded prosecutor signals a potential shift in Michigan's approach to criminal justice.Today in Detroit

Michigan Democrats have selected Washtenaw County Prosecutor Eli Savit as their nominee for the state's next attorney general. Savit, a progressive prosecutor known for criminal justice reform efforts, will now advance to the general election.

Why it matters

The race for Michigan's attorney general is seen as a key battleground in the upcoming election, with the winner poised to shape the state's legal and policy agenda on a range of high-profile issues.

The details

Savit, 38, has served as the Washtenaw County Prosecutor since 2021. He has gained national attention for his progressive approach to criminal justice, including ending cash bail and focusing resources on violent crimes rather than low-level offenses. Savit's nomination by Michigan Democrats sets up a potentially contentious general election fight.

  • The Michigan Democratic Party convention was held on April 19, 2026.
  • Savit was officially nominated as the party's attorney general candidate on April 20, 2026.

The players

Eli Savit

The 38-year-old Washtenaw County Prosecutor who was nominated by Michigan Democrats as their candidate for state attorney general.

Michigan Democratic Party

The state's Democratic political organization that selected Savit as its nominee for attorney general.

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What they’re saying

“Eli Savit is the right choice to be Michigan's next attorney general. His progressive approach to criminal justice reform aligns with our party's values.”

— Gretchen Whitmer, Michigan Governor

What’s next

Savit will now advance to the November 2026 general election, where he will face the Republican nominee for Michigan attorney general.

The takeaway

Savit's nomination represents a shift in the Michigan Democratic Party toward more progressive criminal justice policies, setting up a high-stakes general election battle for the state's top law enforcement position.