Known as an inclusive and fair-minded leader who works to forge relationships with both sides, Lt. Governor Cherry has served as Senate Democratic Leader since 1995. Prior to that, he served as Senate Democratic Floor Leader from 1990 to 1995. He was first elected to the Michigan Senate in 1986, after serving two terms in the Michigan House of Representatives.

His interest in politics began as a teenager. At age 18, he formed a political group for young people, sparked by the national turmoil of the Vietnam War and the civil rights movement. His political activism carried over into his work life, as he took a job as administrative assistant .to former State Senator Gary Corbin. He later served as the Michigan political director for the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO until his election to the Michigan House.

As an active and involved legislator, Lt. Governor Cherry focused on the issues that were most important to him – families, the quality of life in our great state, the environment, and the great outdoors. He has authored and co-sponsored several milestone Michigan laws dealing with workers’ rights, environmental protection, and conservation.

Born May 5, 1951, in Sulphur Springs, Texas, Cherry’s father John Sr. worked for the phone company, working his way up from lineman to supervisor. While working for the phone company, he met his future wife, Margaret, who was working as an operator. She later retired from the Genesee County Animal Shelter as an office manager, and still resides in Genesee County.

Lt. Governor Cherry received a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan in 1973 and a Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Michigan, Flint in 1984.