Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence was introduced today as Democrat Virg Bernero's running mate in November's race for governor.  (Photo by Karen Fox/Tell Us Detroit)

First African American Tapped to Run as Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor

By Karen Hudson Samuels/Tell Us Detroit

DETROIT (Tell Us Det) - Democratic gubernatorial candidate Virg Bernero introduced his running mate, Southfield Mayor Brenda Lawrence, to a room of cheering supporters Saturday at the Michigan Democratic Party nominating convention meeting in Detroit.

Bernero praised his choice for Lieutenant Governor saying “Her success creating jobs and balancing budgets as the mayor of Southfield has earned praise from across the state and country. She exemplifies the type of leadership we need at the State Capitol.” Lawrence is an experienced administrator who brings diversity to the Democratic governor’s race and a solid base of support in southeastern Michigan.

In 2001 Brenda Lawrence was elected as the first African American and first female Mayor of Southfield. Previously she served on the Southfield City Council and the Southfield Board of Education.

The pairing of two mayors running for the state’s top jobs is a historic ticket said Virg Bernero. As mayors, both have been able to run their running cities without raising taxes and deliver city services without layoffs. Bernero said Lawrence was the only candidate he offered to running on the Democratic ticket.

The traditional duties of a Lieutenant Governor may be expanded under Bernero. He hinted that Lawrence may be called upon to shoulder leadership beyond the customary role of presiding over the state Senate, making public appearances for the governor and serving on various state boards and commissions.

The Bernero and Lawrence ticket will kick off a statewide campaign billed as the “Fighting for Main Street Tour” on Monday. They will appear in Detroit on Wednesday, other stops during the week include Royal Oak, Flint, Bay City and Battle Creek.