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Acker Campaigns for Second Term on U-M Board of Regents

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  Published in Politics and Government on Wednesday, March 18th 2026 at 22:41 GMT by The Michigan Daily
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Ann Arbor, MI - March 19th, 2026 - Democratic Regent Jordan Acker is campaigning for a second term on the University of Michigan's Board of Regents, facing a challenge from Republican candidate Sarah Miller. Acker, currently the sole Democrat on the eight-member board, is emphasizing accessibility, affordability, mental health, and academic freedom as cornerstones of his platform. His tenure has been marked by initiatives like the Go Blue Guarantee, but challenges related to university funding, transparency, and student well-being remain prominent.

First elected in 2022, Acker's re-election bid comes at a pivotal moment for higher education. Rising tuition costs, increasing student debt, and a growing emphasis on mental health support are defining concerns for students and families alike. Acker frames his candidacy as a commitment to ensuring that a University of Michigan education remains within reach for all qualified Michigan residents, regardless of socioeconomic background.

Accessibility and Affordability: Beyond the Go Blue Guarantee

The Go Blue Guarantee, established during Acker's first term, provides tuition-free education for in-state students from families earning under $50,000. While lauded as a significant step, Acker acknowledges that further action is needed. He believes a multi-pronged approach is essential, potentially involving increased state funding, strategic endowment management, and innovative financial aid programs. Critics, like his opponent Sarah Miller, have questioned the board's handling of the university's substantial endowment, calling for greater transparency and a more aggressive approach to utilizing these funds to alleviate student financial burdens.

"The Guarantee is a great start, but it's not enough," Acker stated in a recent interview. "We need to explore every avenue to reduce the financial barriers to higher education, including advocating for increased state investment and ensuring that our endowment is working for our students." He also points to the need for expanded work-study programs and initiatives aimed at reducing the overall cost of attendance, such as housing and textbook expenses.

Supporting Students and Faculty: A Holistic Approach

Acker consistently emphasizes the importance of fostering a supportive campus environment for both students and faculty. He believes that attracting and retaining top talent requires a commitment to competitive salaries, robust benefits, and opportunities for professional development. Simultaneously, he recognizes the growing mental health crisis among students, citing numerous conversations with students struggling with anxiety, depression, and other challenges.

"The mental health of our students is paramount," Acker says. "We need to significantly expand access to mental health services, reduce wait times for counseling, and create a campus culture that destigmatizes seeking help." He advocates for increased funding for the University's Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) and the implementation of proactive mental health initiatives, such as peer support programs and mental health literacy training for faculty and staff.

Academic Freedom and Campus Speech: Navigating a Complex Landscape

The debate surrounding academic freedom and campus free speech has become increasingly contentious nationwide. Acker asserts that protecting these principles is crucial for the University of Michigan's identity as a leading research institution. He acknowledges the challenges of balancing free expression with the need to create a safe and inclusive learning environment.

"Academic freedom is not absolute, but it is fundamental," Acker explains. "We must protect the right of students and faculty to express their views, even when those views are unpopular or controversial, while also ensuring that our campus remains a welcoming and respectful space for all." He supports clear and consistently applied policies regarding free speech, emphasizing the importance of due process and protecting against harassment and discrimination.

Looking Ahead: A Legislative Agenda for the Next Four Years

If re-elected, Acker intends to push for further expansion of the Go Blue Guarantee, increased investment in mental health services, and initiatives to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion on campus. He also aims to address concerns regarding the rising cost of graduate education and the need for more robust support for post-doctoral researchers. Miller, on the other hand, is campaigning on a platform of increased fiscal responsibility and greater transparency, arguing that the board needs to be more accountable to taxpayers and students. The election promises a clear choice between two distinct visions for the future of the University of Michigan.