LANSING, MI - On August 1, 2024, Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II assumed the role of Chair of the National Lieutenant Governors Association (NLGA) at the organization’s Annual Meeting.

“The National Lieutenant Governors Association is at the forefront of our work as lieutenant governors to make a difference for communities across the nation,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “As Michigan leads the nation on issues like lowering costs, protecting freedoms, growing economic opportunity, and boosting clean energy, I am excited to step up as Chair and work with my fellow lieutenant governors to find common ground solutions to the challenges we face. Let us continue working together to help our constituents be their best selves and achieve health and wealth.”

The NLGA was formed in 1962 as the professional and educational association for the elected officials who are first in line of succession to governors in the 50 states and five U.S. territories.

“It has been an honor to serve as chairman of the National Lieutenant Governors Association,” said Iowa Lt. Governor Adam Gregg. “I’m proud to pass the gavel to my friend and colleague, Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist. I know our bipartisan organization is in good hands under his leadership, and I look forward to seeing his work in leading this historic organization into the future.”

Michigan is honored to welcome the NLGA’s annual meeting to Detroit, a symbol of Michigan’s resurgence and a hotspot for innovation in technology that will define the future. Michigan is open for business and coming back stronger, showing the world the grit and innovative spirit that is making Michigan the best place to live, work, and play. Small business growth and construction jobs are reaching historic highs, Detroit’s population is growing for the first time in 67 years, and Michigan is a Top 10 state for business, home to the #1 emerging startup ecosystem, and the next “Silicon Valley” for mobility innovation.

“Lt. Governor Gilchrist’s selection as Chair reflects the faith and confidence of his peer lieutenant governors nationwide to lead this valuable organization,” said Kellie Rittershausen, NLGA Director. “Lt. Governor Gilchrist was approved by a vote at the Annual Meeting of the NLGA in Detroit, Michigan.”

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist has dedicated his career to solving problems. An engineer by training, he uses thoughtful and fact-based practices to solve real problems and make government work better for Michigan families.

As part of the Whitmer Administration, Lt. Governor Gilchrist has focused on helping Michiganders in communities across our state realize their full economic and political potential. From co-chairing the Michigan Joint Task Force on Jail and Pretrial Incarceration, to helming the Michigan COVID-19 Task Force on Racial Disparities, to leading efforts to connect over 23,000 unserved locations in Michigan to affordable high-speed internet, Lt. Governor Gilchrist is committed to building a more just, equitable, prosperous, and connected Michigan where everyone can thrive.

Lt. Governor Gilchrist and his wife, Ellen, reside in Detroit where they are raising their twins, Emily and Garlin III, and daughter, Ruby.