Former RNC Chair Ronna McDaniel partners with the DeVos family to launch a well-funded initiative aimed at shifting Michigan’s political landscape toward Republican dominance.
At a Glance
- Ronna McDaniel appointed CEO of the DeVos-funded Michigan Forward Network
- The 501(c)(4) nonprofit aims to influence Michigan’s state elections without disclosing donors
- Initial focus includes regaining GOP control of the Michigan Senate and maintaining the House
- The DeVos family pledges millions to support the initiative
- The group plans to challenge Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s policies ahead of the 2026 elections
Strategic Realignment
After stepping down as chair of the Republican National Committee in early 2024, Ronna McDaniel has returned to the political fray, this time as CEO of the newly formed Michigan Forward Network. Backed by the powerful and well-financed DeVos family, the group aims to recast Michigan’s political future by steering substantial resources into local and state-level races. The organization’s stated mission is to promote conservative policy, support Republican candidates, and regain legislative control in the state.
The DeVos family—longtime GOP donors and political influencers—has committed millions of dollars to the effort, signaling their determination to reverse recent Democratic gains in Michigan. As reported by Bridge Michigan, their investment is expected to make Michigan Forward a dominant force in upcoming election cycles.
Watch a report: Ronna McDaniel Joins Wealthy DeVos Family to Try to Make Michigan Red.
Policy Focus and Political Implications
McDaniel has said the Michigan Forward Network will prioritize issues like education reform, fiscal discipline, and public safety—core conservative concerns that have gained renewed traction among voters post-pandemic. In addition to bolstering GOP candidates, the group plans to fund issue-based campaigns aimed at challenging key Democratic policies, particularly those championed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
With Michigan set to be a 2026 battleground, the stakes are high. Both the governor’s office and a U.S. Senate seat will be open, presenting Republicans with rare opportunities to regain power. The Michigan Forward Network’s strategy of targeting down-ballot races to build statehouse majorities reflects a broader national shift among conservatives seeking durable political influence through state-level governance. This mirrors trends seen in Heritage Action and similar conservative grassroots organizations.
Organizational Strength and Outlook
The nonprofit’s leadership team includes seasoned operatives with deep ties to Michigan politics. Shane Hernandez, a former state representative and budget chair, serves as the network’s president. Sarah Anderson, a former executive at the Michigan Freedom Fund, acts as chief of staff. Their appointments point to a serious, long-term infrastructure designed to influence policy beyond the next election.
According to a detailed report from MIRS News, the Michigan Forward Network is structured to operate as a 501(c)(4), allowing it to spend on advocacy without disclosing its donors—a model increasingly popular among political nonprofits across the spectrum.
With McDaniel’s national experience and the DeVos family’s financial firepower, the Michigan Forward Network is poised to become a pivotal player in shaping not just the future of Michigan politics, but possibly the balance of power in the Midwest for years to come.
