Born on July 11, 1970, in Portland, Ionia County, Michigan, this representative has dedicated much of his professional career to public service, education, and advocacy. He graduated from Portland High School in 1988 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in 1992 from Michigan State University. In 2010, he furthered his education with a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. His career includes roles as a nonprofit executive and professional advocate, as well as positions in the Michigan Department of Human Services and the Michigan Department of Education. He also served as a city commissioner in Bay City, Michigan, from 2019 to 2022.

In 2023, he was elected to the Michigan State Senate and currently serves as the assistant majority floor leader for the 2023-2025 session. He was elected to the One Hundred Nineteenth Congress on January 3, 2025, representing Michigan as a member of the Democratic Party.

Throughout his legislative career, he has actively participated in various committees, which include:

• Education and Workforce
• Agriculture and Food
• Health

He is recognized for sponsoring and co-sponsoring several bills that reflect his focus on education, agriculture, and health policy. Notable bills include:

1. Lowering Egg Prices Act of 2025 (HB2222): This bill proposes to amend regulations governing surplus broiler hatching eggs to simplify their sale and potentially lower consumer prices. It has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce for further consideration.

2. EITC Modernization Act (HB905): Aimed at expanding the Earned Income Tax Credit, this legislation seeks to alleviate child poverty by redefining qualifying dependents and expanding eligibility. It has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

3. Combating High Inflation Limiting Daycare Act of 2025 (HB413): This acts to increase the maximum contributions to dependent care assistance programs, thereby easing the financial burden on families. The bill is currently under review by the House Committee on Ways and Means.

4. Great Lakes Day Resolution (HR194): This resolution expresses support for recognizing "Great Lakes Day" to raise awareness about the importance of preserving this vital natural resource. It has progressed to a subcommittee.

5. Safe Vehicle Access for Survivors Act (HB2110): Designed to enhance the safety of abuse survivors with respect to connected vehicle services, this legislation has been referred to the relevant committees for consideration.

His political leanings appear to align with progressive values, particularly in relation to education, healthcare access, and agricultural policy. The initiatives he supports point to a commitment to addressing issues such as child poverty, education access, and the protection of natural resources. However, discussions surrounding his proposed legislation also suggest potential challenges, as critics may express concerns regarding fiscal responsibility and regulatory impacts.

In his personal life, he is connected to the community and understands the challenges faced by constituents, given his prior roles in public service. While the specifics of his family life or personal business endeavors are not detailed, his commitment to advocating for social issues reflects a deeper connection to the welfare of his constituents.

This representative's career embodies a blend of practical policy advocacy and a commitment to public service, aiming to address the needs of Michigan residents through dedicated legislative efforts.