Erin Byrnes

Civil Rights

I reject all forms of voter suppression — whether through intimidation, misinformation, or bureaucratic barriers — and I work to counteract political forces that seek to undermine trust in elections. My goal is straightforward: every eligible voter should be able to cast a ballot freely, safely, and without obstruction. Learn more

Economy

I support policies that lower costs for working families and seniors, including fair utility regulation, protections against price gouging, and investments that reduce household expenses over the long term. I have championed pay transparency, strong labor protections, and living wages as essential tools to help Michiganders keep up with rising costs. Learn more

Education

I advocate for classrooms equipped with essential literacy supports, mental health professionals, modern facilities, and culturally responsive curricula that reflect students’ identities and experiences. I support affordable, accessible higher education pathways, especially for working adults, first-generation students, and those who have historically faced barriers. Learn more

Environment / Energy

I share the concerns of many community members regarding data centers’ water usage, and the potential of rising utility costs for residents. I will continue to advocate for greater transparency where data centers are concerned, and I support a one-year moratorium on data centers in Michigan. Learn more

I also support expanding access to affordable housing, strengthening renter protections, and investing in energy efficiency programs that lower utility bills while addressing climate change. Learn more

Guns

I support strong gun safety reforms, including universal background checks and extreme-risk protection orders, to keep firearms out of dangerous situations. At the same time, I champion community-driven strategies like violence interruption programs, trauma-informed services, and investments in youth opportunity.Rather than relying solely on punitive systems, I seek to build safer communities through prevention, compassion, and evidence-based policy. Learn more

Healthcare

I support expanding community-based mental health services, embedding mental health professionals in schools, and ensuring that care is accessible regardless of insurance status or income. I believe first responders should receive specialized training to safely support people experiencing crises, reducing criminalization and prioritizing care over punishment. Learn more

I also emphasize support for caregivers and families, recognizing that mental health challenges affect entire households and communities. My vision centers on healing, prevention, and dignity. Learn more

Immigration

Another source of violence in communities in Michigan, and across the country, is ICE. ICE agents have been assaulting and disappearing people for months, and it must stop. In January of 2026, I traveled to Minnesota with legislators from across the country to stand in solidarity with the people there, and to gather valuable insights and resources from community organizers on the ground. I will do everything in my power to protect our community from ICE. Learn more

Infrastructure / Transportation

I support aggressive investment in green infrastructure, including rainwater management, flood prevention, and climate-resilient public works particularly in communities that have long borne the brunt of environmental harm. I advocate for modernizing transportation with a justice-oriented lens: reforming road funding formulas that disadvantage urban areas, expanding public transit, and accelerating the statewide buildout of electric vehicle charging networks. Learn more

Taxes / Budget

I support expanding the authority of independent watchdogs and increasing public access to information so that Michiganders can clearly see who is influencing the laws that shape their lives. Learn more

Wages / Job Benefits

Economic justice is at the heart of my progressive agenda. I support policies that guarantee equal pay for equal work, require employers to disclose salary ranges, and empower workers to report wage discrimination anonymously without fear of retaliation. Learn more

I believe in strengthening collective bargaining rights, expanding access to unions, and protecting workers from exploitation. My approach champions living wages, safe workplaces, and an economy that values people over profits. My vision is a Michigan where economic opportunity is not reserved for the privileged but shared broadly across every community. Learn more