Meet Derek
Derek Dobies is a bold leader focused on building opportunity for working people across Jackson. As a former mayor and current school board member, he brings his hard work ethic and decades of policy experience towards rebuilding our local schools, community, and economy.
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Jackson has made real progress in recent years, but our country—and our city—are at a crossroads. Derek is the only candidate with the proven experience and steady leadership to move Jackson forward. Help power this people-first campaign by chipping in today and building the momentum we need to win.
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Building Jackson’s Future
I grew up the son of two public school teachers who taught me that building a strong future starts with investing in people and opportunity. Those values pushed me to work hard in school and ultimately earn a degree in Political Theory & Constitutional Democracy from Michigan State University.
When I served as Mayor of Jackson, I saw firsthand that a city’s success is never accidental. Thriving communities are built through smart planning, strong institutions, and leaders willing to take responsibility for long-term outcomes—not just short-term wins. That belief guided my work to strengthen neighborhoods, invest in infrastructure, and lay the groundwork for sustainable growth.
My service on the Jackson Public Schools Board of Education grew out of that same commitment to the future. As a parent of a daughter in JPS, and as a community leader, I wanted to make sure we were doing the hard work of preparing the next generation and supporting the families who call Jackson home.
Now, I’m focused on how we continue building Jackson’s future. At a moment when our democracy and local communities face real challenges, Jackson needs experienced, steady leadership focused on opportunity, affordability, and freedom for every family. I’m committed to doing my part to help move our city forward and ensure the progress we’ve made continues to deliver real results for the people who call Jackson home.
Reduced crime while strengthening community policing
Invested in public safety equipment and advanced officer training
Attracted and supported new downtown business development
Delivered critical infrastructure upgrades, including roads, sewer, water, and streetlights
Expanded affordable housing options through new single-family and multi-unit development
Partnered with residents and stakeholders to drive neighborhood revitalization and blight mitigation
Enhanced the citywide parks and trails network through targeted investments
Strengthened neighborhood investment and community engagement initiatives
Led Jackson through the COVID-19 crisis with a decisive, resident-focused public health response
Leadership is about working harder, thinking smarter, and delivering measurable outcomes that improve people’s lives. During my tenure at City Hall from 2012 to 2021, the focus was squarely on public safety, economic opportunity, quality infrastructure, stable housing, and vibrant neighborhoods. Through the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I guided the City of Jackson in protecting residents, supporting local partners, and maintaining essential services when our community needed steady leadership most. Here’s some of the things I have done during my career in public service:
Delivering Results
“I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Derek and see the way he leads — thoughtful, prepared, and always focused on what’s best for the people of Jackson. He understands how deeply connected strong schools and strong neighborhoods are to the future of our city. Derek brings people together, listens, and leads with purpose. I’m proud to support him for mayor because I know he will continue to put our community first.”
Pam Fitzgerald
Former President, JPS Board of Education
March 2026
“Derek has never shied away from the tough fights. Whether it was leading the city through crisis, standing up for our residents, or pushing forward progress when it wasn’t easy, he’s proven he’s willing to do the hard work this job demands. Jackson has made real progress over the last several years — and we can’t afford to lose that momentum. Derek Dobies is the kind of leader who will keep moving this city forward, and that’s why I support him for mayor.”
Daniel Mahoney
Mayor, City of Jackson
March 2026
See more of Derek Dobies’ endorsements here.
Endorsements
Here’s some of the growing list of endorsements for Derek Dobies:
Elected Officials
Daniel Mahoney - Mayor, City of Jackson
Jason Smith - Mayor, City of Jackson (fmr.)
John Willis - County Commissioner, Jackson County
Darius Williams - County Commissioner, Jackson County
Mark Schauer, Congressman (fmr.)
Arlene Robinson - Council Member, City of Jackson
Freddie Dancy - Vice Mayor, City of Jackson
Angelita Gunn - Council Member, City of Jackson
Conner Wood - Council Member, City of Jackson
Will Forgave - Council Member, City of Jackson
Karen Bunnell - Council Member, City of Jackson (fmr.)
Colleen Sullivan - Council Member, City of Jackson (fmr.)
Kelsey Heck Wood - Council Member, City of Jackson (fmr.)
Michelle Woods - Council Member, City of Jackson (fmr.)
Carrie Rheingans - State Representative
Jennifer Conlin - State Representative
Danielle Mackey - Trustee, Jackson College
Subba Reddy - Treasurer, JPS Board of Education
Tabitha Williams - Trustee, JPS Board of Education
Angela Mitchell - President, JPS Board of Education (fmr.)
Pam Fitzgerald - President, JPS Board of Education (fmr.)
Sheila Patterson - President, JPS Board of Education (fmr.)
Libby Brown - Trustee, JPS Board of Education (fmr.)
Jan Maino - President, East Jackson Public Schools Board of Education
ORGANIZATIONS
Huron Valley Area Labor Federation
Southeast Michigan Building Trades Council
Michigan Laborers District Council
International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 252
Get Involved
Campaigns are spaces to come together to chart a brighter future for all of us. This campaign is powered by people like you. Help us elect Derek Dobies so he can keep working hard for you.
Volunteer opportunities
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