Rickie Kreuzer | Courtesy photo
Rickie Kreuzer formally launched his campaign last week for Michigan’s 30th State Senate District in Grand Rapids, following his filing for candidacy in February.
Kreuzer, the founding executive director of Chosen Family of Michigan, a statewide civil rights and advocacy nonprofit, also serves on the Michigan State Board of Nursing.
“As a civil rights advocate and the son of a small business owner, I know the barriers entrepreneurs face in the marketplace,” said Kreuzer in a press release. “Supporting workers and supporting industry are not mutually exclusive. I’ll fight to ensure workers’ financial needs are met while also providing resources to help businesses thrive.”
The district is currently held by State Sen. Mark Huizenga (R-Walker), who defeated former State Rep. David LaGrand – now the mayor of Grand Rapids – in a close 2022 election, receiving 405 more votes.
The seat will likely serve as a battleground in 2026 as Senate Republicans look to take control of the chamber, where Democrats presently hold a slim 19-18 majority.
Also in the race for the Democratic nomination is State Rep. Carol Glanville (D-Walker), who announced her candidacy last week.
Kreuzer outlined priorities including increasing affordable housing supply through sustainable development, investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, and fostering collaborative, inclusive communities.
His background includes LGBTQ+ and voter advocacy work with the Human Rights Campaign, League of Conservation Voters, Michigan United, and OutFront Kalamazoo. He also helped mobilize voters during Georgia’s 2021 special Senate elections.
The 30th Senate District spans parts of Kent and Ottawa counties, including much of the City of Grand Rapids, as well as Rockford, Walker and Coopersville.