Wayne County Clerk Rejects Challenge to Trans Candidate’s Ballot Access
Wayne County Clerk Cathy M. Garrett rejected a challenge seeking to remove transgender candidate Joanna Whaley from the August primary ballot over her legal name change.
DETROIT, MICHIGAN — Wayne County Clerk Cathy M. Garrett denied a campaign challenge that aimed to disqualify a transgender candidate from the Democratic primary ballot for Michigan’s 2nd House District over her legal name change.
The challenge was filed by Frank Liberati, who claimed his primary opponent Joanna Whaley had violated state campaign law by not listing her deadname on her affidavit of identity submitted to run for office. Garrett’s decision allows Whaley to remain on the August 4, 2026 primary ballot.
Legal Name Change Documentation
Whaley demonstrated to the county clerk’s office that she legally changed her name in 2025. She also provided evidence that she has been using the name in a “common law” capacity since at least May 2022, far exceeding the six months that statute requires for candidates to show they use a certain name.
The challenge specifically targeted Whaley’s legal name change associated with her transition, according to court documents.
Candidate Response
“Last night, our campaign received news that Frank Liberati’s challenge to my candidacy, a challenge targeting my legal name change associated with my transition, has been decisively rejected by the county clerk. I am officially confirmed for the August 4th, 2026 primary ballot,” Whaley said in a statement.
“This moment is a powerful affirmation of justice, and I am deeply grateful to the supporters nationwide, the Michigan Democratic Party, and the elected leaders who stood with us,” she added.
Campaign Impact
Whaley noted that the complaint and resulting attention has allowed her campaign to increase its reach in discussing policy issues. The controversy brought national attention to the local race, according to her statement.
The decision ensures that all candidates who filed for the Democratic primary in Michigan’s 2nd House District will appear on the ballot when voters head to the polls in August. The primary contest will determine which candidate advances to represent the district in the November general election.
Michigan state law requires candidates to demonstrate they have used their listed name for at least six months before filing to run for office. The clerk’s office determined Whaley met all legal requirements for ballot access based on the documentation she provided regarding her name change and usage history.
