December 28, 2006
LANSING - Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced she will appoint outgoing Senate Minority Leader Bob Emerson as her next budget director. Emerson will replace Mary A. Lannoye who has been named the Governor's chief of staff. The governor will officially appoint Emerson to the position effective January 3.
"Senator Emerson's 26 years of legislative experience and first-hand knowledge of the appropriations process make him a perfect choice to manage our budget through these challenging times," said Granholm. "Bob has earned not only my respect but the respect of those on both sides of the aisle as a fair and honest individual with a passion for making Michigan a better place for everyone. I am honored that Bob will continue his service to the citizens of Michigan."
Emerson was first elected to the Michigan Legislature in 1980 when he won a special election for a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives. After being re-elected to the House eight times, he served two terms in the state Senate, representing Genesee County's 27th Senate District. Senator Emerson currently serves as the Senate Minority Leader, having served as Floor Leader during his previous term.
In 1993, then-Representative Emerson served as a member of the special committee of 14 bipartisan legislators chosen to suggest improvements to Michigan's school financing plan. As a co-chair of the School Aid Appropriations Subcommittee, he oversaw a complete restructuring of the school financing system.
Senator Emerson was born and raised in Alpena, Michigan. He graduated from the St. Paul Catholic Seminary in Saginaw and attended Wayne State University and the University of Michigan-Flint.
He moved to Flint in 1969 and was employed by General Motors at the Chevrolet Engine Plant. He later worked at St. Joseph Hospital where he organized a union and served as its first president. His involvement in the union led to his appointment as a field representative and political coordinator for the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
Senator Emerson is married to Judy Samelson and is the proud father of four children.
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