Stephen WoodenStephen Wooden

Stephen Wooden is a Democrat running for his second term as representative for House District 81. A resident of Grand Rapids, he previously served as Minority Vice Chair of the Kent County Commission. In his first term in the House, Wooden played a key role in a package of new laws that make it easier to build various types of housing in Michigan. He is running for re-election because he believes in building solutions that support the common dreams of all people, rooted in the values of community and mutual care he learned during his early years in New York City. Wooden’s personal experiences, including dealing with rising costs and his son's rare food allergy, fuel his commitment to ensuring no one has to worry about affording essentials like food or medicine. With nearly a decade of experience helping Michiganders save on utility bills and creating affordable housing, Stephen is dedicated to making life better for Michigan families. Wooden has been endorsed by the following progressive partner organizations: American Federation of Teachers - Michigan, Michigan AFL-CIO, Sierra Club - Michigan, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, Michigan Association for Justice, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, and Service Employees International Union - Michigan. Wooden is running against MAGA Republican Holly DeBoer. Stephen Wooden is the most progressive choice in this race.

Former Kent County Commissioner Stephen Wooden won District 81 in 2024 after Rachel Hood's term. This area covers part of Ada.

Protecting and strengthening our democracy is about listening to voters and ensuring their voices are heard,” said Rep. Stephen Wooden of Grand Rapids, ranking member on the House Elections Integrity Committee. “That’s what Ranked Choice Voting is about, giving voters more voice. I support allowing its use in our Michigan communities.