Whitmer Statement on Chief Justice McCormack Retiring from the Bench
Statement
Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement after Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack announced her retirement from the bench.
"Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack is a phenomenal public servant.
"In her tenure on the Michigan Supreme Court, she upheld the rule of law, stood strong for our constitutional values, and protected the fundamental rights of every Michigander. She worked tirelessly, both on and off the bench, to move our state courts forward and ensure that all Michiganders, no matter their background, means, or circumstance, had equal access to our justice system.
"The deep dedication and sound leadership she brought to our judiciary were matched only by her keen intellect, genuine warmth, and disarming wit. Whatever she touched, she made better, and we are grateful for all she has done to serve Michiganders and our state.
"We will ensure a smooth transition for Chief Justice McCormack. In the coming months, I will appoint a new justice with Michigan values and an unwavering commitment to the Michigan constitution who can be an arbiter of justice and live up to the great responsibility that comes with the role. I look forward to the work ahead."
Chief Justice McCormack Background
Chief Justice Bridget Mary McCormack joined the Michigan Supreme Court in January 2013 and became Chief Justice in January 2019. As Chief Justice, she promoted statewide initiatives to advance equal access to justice and improve the courts' service to the public. Before her election to the Court in November 2012, she was a law professor and associate dean at the University of Michigan Law School, where she continues to teach. In addition to her role on the court and in the classroom, McCormack serves on several boards and commissions at the national and state level, including the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration, the Michigan Jail Reform Advisory Council, and the Task Force on Forensic Science.
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