In November 2010, Tupac A. Hunter was overwhelmingly re-elected to a second term in the Michigan Senate representing the citizens of the 5th District, which comprises northwest Detroit, Dearborn Heights, and Inkster. He was unanimously elected by his colleagues in the Democratic Caucus to serve as the Democratic Floor Leader for the 2011-14 legislative session. He previously served as the Assistant Democratic Leader during his first term in the Michigan Senate (2007-2010). Prior to being elected to the Michigan Senate, he served in the Michigan House of Representatives (2003-2006). He served as the House Democratic Whip (2005-2006) and as the ranking Democrat on the Banking and Financial Services Committee and the Insurance Committee.
Senator Hunter is recognized as a strong leader in the areas of banking and financial services, consumer protection, criminal justice, economic development, education, ethics in government, and health care insurance reform. He has authored a diverse legislative agenda that has produced 25 Public Acts and 1 Constitutional Amendment to date. Specifically, he has been recognized for his advocacy for financial literacy and fair lending practices; his support of children’s health care and early childhood development issues; his leadership on policies affecting the hearing-impaired and the disabled; his championing the passage of landmark legislation to make Michigan a smoke-free state; and his efforts to enact legislation that would require insurance companies to cover treatments for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. For his consistent issue advocacy and legislative accomplishments, Senator Hunter has received the following honors and recognition:
? Michigan Association of State and Federal Program Specialists Roberta Stanley Legislative Award (2010)
? Autism Insurance for Michigan Coalition Legislative Champion Award (2010)
? American Heart Association Heart Champion Award (2010)
? Hearing Loss Association of Michigan Legislator of the Year Award (2009)
? Michigan Deaf Association Legislator of the Year Award (2009)
? Michigan Children’s Trust Fund Seasoned Advocate Award (2008)
? Michigan Credit Union League Legislator of the Year Award (2007)
Senator Hunter holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Urban Studies and Public Policy from Morehouse College and a Master of Public Administration Degree from Oakland University.
Senator Hunter resides in northwest Detroit with his wife RaShawn and their two sons, Jalen and Josiah. He and his family worship at Grace Bible Chapel in Detroit.