Election Results: Debra Nance Secures Third Term as 46th District Court Judge
SOUTHFIELD/LATHRUP VILLAGE — It was an exciting day on November 5, as voters showed up in droves for the election, choosing the next judge for the 46th District Court. After a hard-fought campaign, incumbent Debra Nance emerged victorious, garnering an impressive 26,527 votes, which accounted for 58.60% of the total. Her opponent, Robin Dillard-Russaw, received 18,454 votes, or 40.76% of the vote. Nance isn’t just celebrating her election win; she’s also set to celebrate her birthday on December 3—what a wonderful way to mark two special occasions!
Swearing-In Ceremony and Honored Guests
Nance’s swearing-in ceremony will take place at 4 PM on her birthday, and she will be sworn in by Supreme Court Justice Kyra Harris Bolden. Adding a special touch to the day, retired Judge Denise Langford Morris, the first African American judge in Oakland County, will be in attendance. Nance expressed her excitement, saying it’s a full circle moment since Harris Bolden supported her campaign back in 2012.
A Long Journey to the Bench
Nance’s journey to becoming a judge has been anything but ordinary. She started her legal education a bit later in life, attending night classes at Wayne State University while balancing her job in human resources at Nissan, along with family responsibilities. “By that time, I had a family and a husband and a couple of kids,” she reminisced. She shared a pivotal moment during her first year of law school when a judge advised her to consider a career on the bench, a moment she describes as lighting a spark she never thought possible.
Initially, Nance faced setbacks in her pursuit. Although she lost her first bid for judge in 2010, she didn’t let that discourage her. “If you’re really serious about it, do it again,” she advises future candidates. In 2012, her determination paid off, and she won her first term. Over the years, she has dedicated herself to serving her community by addressing issues like domestic violence, mental health, and opioid addiction.
Focus on Change and Rehabilitation
Throughout her tenure, Nance has championed numerous initiatives aimed at helping individuals turn their lives around. She expressed her commitment to providing options for young people grappling with legal issues. “I have the ability to actually sentence them to skilled trades programs that have a GED component,” she said. Nance feels passionately that offering young individuals new opportunities can lead to better futures. “If they are now making $45 to $75 an hour as a pipe fitter, they’re less likely to come back.”
Facing Challenges with Integrity
Amidst her election success, Nance has also addressed an ongoing investigation by the Michigan Judicial Tenure Commission. In light of this, she expressed her commitment to integrity and transparency. “I take my job too seriously,” she said. Nance emphasized the importance of standing up for herself and maintaining trust within her court, showcasing her resolve to navigate through any challenges.
A Message of Hope from Her Opponent
Although Dillard-Russaw did not win, she took a moment to thank her supporters, highlighting the values of integrity and fairness she championed during her campaign. “Together, we stood up for integrity, fairness, and the need for a court system that serves every member of our community equally,” she noted. Dillard-Russaw remains dedicated to advocating for improvements in the justice system and fostering real change for the future.
As the 46th District Court prepares for a new chapter with Judge Nance at the helm for another six years, the community looks forward to continuing the dialogue on justice, reform, and hope. For more information about the court and its programs, residents are encouraged to visit the official website.
