Garlin Gilchrist Height, Weight, Religion, Net Worth, Age, Biography

About (Profile/Biography):
Garlin Gilchrist II is an American Democratic politician, software engineer, and public-service leader from Detroit, Michigan. He became Michigan's 64th lieutenant governor on January 1, 2019, alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and won a second term in 2022. Before entering statewide politics, Garlin worked at Microsoft, supported Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, and held technology leadership roles in Detroit city government. He studied computer engineering and computer science at the University of Michigan, graduating with honors in 2005. His public work has focused on expanding internet access, improving election participation, criminal justice reform, and addressing racial health disparities. In 2026, he shifted from a gubernatorial campaign to running for Michigan secretary of state.
Early Life and Education of Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin grew up in Detroit, Michigan, where his early interest in computers developed into a passion for technology.
• He attended the University of Michigan and earned degrees in computer engineering and computer science in 2005.
• Gilchrist became involved in student leadership, supporting networking and mentoring opportunities for Black engineering students.
Professional Career of Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin worked as a software engineer at Microsoft, contributing to SharePoint before moving toward community organizing and politics.
• He joined MoveOn.org as national campaign director, helping coordinate progressive campaigns and civic-engagement efforts.
• Gilchrist returned to Detroit in 2014 to lead innovation and emerging technology initiatives within the city government.
Political Career of Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin served as social media director for Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, helping use technology to mobilize supporters.
• He became Michigan's lieutenant governor in 2019 and was reelected in 2022 alongside Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
• In January 2026, Gilchrist ended his gubernatorial bid and pursued the Democratic nomination for Michigan secretary of state.
Controversies Around Garlin Gilchrist
• In 2017, a news report questioned conditions at an eight-unit Detroit apartment building owned by Gilchrist and his wife.
• The property criticism raised questions about blight and management, but should not be confused with a criminal conviction.
• Gilchrist's lack of previous elected-office experience also drew criticism during his first statewide campaign in 2018.
Awards and Recognitions Received by Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin received the 2022 Improving Lives and Communities Award from the National Lieutenant Governors Association.
• He became chair of the National Lieutenant Governors Association in August 2024, reflecting recognition from colleagues nationwide.
• Gilchrist earned honors as a University of Michigan graduate, where he completed two engineering degrees with distinction.
Lesser-Known Facts About Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin received his first computer at age five and built computers himself as a teenager, according to his official biography.
• At age 16, he built computers for a community-center computer lab, helping others gain access to digital technology.
• He founded Detroit Diaspora, an online community connecting Detroiters living elsewhere with their hometown's future.
Personal Life of Garlin Gilchrist
• Garlin is married to Ellen Gilchrist, and the couple are raising their children together in Detroit, Michigan.
• The family includes twins, Emily and Garlin III, as well as their younger daughter, Ruby.
• Gilchrist often connects his public-service goals to creating better opportunities for families and communities across Michigan.