Kristopher Banks is a Field Organizer. Kris is responsible for supporting and building party organizations and constituency groups throughout the state. Kris started his political career as an intern at the Michigan Democratic Party, where he supported municipal elections efforts and staff initiatives. Prior to that, Kris proved himself as an effective leader in multiple organizations at Western Michigan University. Kris has a degree in Public Relations from Western Michigan University. Email: kristopher@michigandems.com
Thomas Collins Jr. is a Field Organizer. Thomas is responsible for supporting and building party organizations and constituency groups throughout the state including base vote areas. Thomas has been involved in Democratic politics for most of his life, including work with Congressman John Conyers and Representative Fred Durhal. Thomas has a degree in Public Policy and Public Administration from Michigan State University and is currently pursuing a second degree in Economics from Michigan State University. Email: thomas@michigandems.com
Laura Hornshaw is the Fundraiser. She is responsible for the Michigan Democratic Party’s membership program, special events, online fundraising campaigns, and is the lead coordinator for the annual Jefferson-Jackson Dinner. She is a graduate of Michigan State University with a B.A. in Political Science. Email: lhornshaw@michigandems.com
Kevin Hrit is the Political Organizing Director. He is responsible for supporting and building the party organization, constituency and caucus outreach, and organizing political activities. He previously served as the Field Director for Jocelyn Benson for Secretary of State and Political Director for Congressman Gary Peters. Kevin has a degree in Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy from James Madison College at Michigan State University. Email: kevin@michigandems.com
Jim Kadjan is the Manager of our two bingo halls. Formerly the Executive Director of the old 12th Congressional District for five years, he has also worked with the David Bonior and Carl Levin campaigns, as well as the Dave Serotkin recall election. He has been with the State Party since 1989.
Megan Lizotte is the Database Manager. She updates and manages the MDP’s database. Megan works on memberships to the Michigan Democratic Party and entering Democratic candidates into the database. She graduated from Grand Valley State University with a B.S. in Political Science. Her email is mlizotte@michigandems.com.
G.T. Long (231-582-7043) is a Senior Field Organizer responsible for the Upper Peninsula and the northern Lower Peninsula. A former candidate for State Representative, he has worked on many campaigns doing grassroots organizing.
Chris Palette is the Voter File and Technology Administrator. He is the statewide administrator for the MDP’s Voter File and helps local parties and Democratic candidates effectively use the file. He is also responsible for website design and maintenance, and helping local parties with their technology needs. Chris is a graduate of Oxford University with a degree in Politics, Philosophy and Economics. Email: cpalette@michigandems.com
Jody Weissler DeFoe is the Finance and Compliance Director. Serving as Chief Financial Officer, she is responsible for overseeing the operation of the finance department as well as bookkeeping, human resources, campaign finance compliance and campaign finance reporting for the Party. Jody is a graduate of Michigan State University with a B.S. in Environmental Studies and Applications. She has been with the MDP since 1999. Email: jweissler@michigandems.com
