Robert L. Emerson

Robert L. Emerson (born March 23rd, 1948) is a Democratic politician from the U.S. state of Michigan. He was member of the Michigan Senate having served as the Democratic Minority Leader. He represented the 27th District in Genesee County, which encompasses the city of Flint.

Emerson was born in Alpena on March 23, 1948. He graduated St. Paul Catholic Seminary and attended Wayne State University and the University of Michigan. After moving to Flint in 1969, Emerson was employed by General Motors. He was elected to the Michigan State House of Representatives in 1980. After serving 18 consecutive years in the State House, he served two 4-year terms in the State Senate.

During this time he took on roles such as the Senate Minority Leader & Democratic Floor Leader. Additionally, he served as co-chairman of the School Aid Appropriations Subcommittee and Chairman of the Public Heath Appropriations Subcommittee. Senator Emerson has been actively involved in issues regarding education, health, & labor legislation over the course of his career.

In January 2007, Emerson was appointed by Governor Jennifer Granholm as her next Budget Director. “Senator Emerson’s 26 years of legislative experience and first-hand knowledge of the appropriations process make him a perfect choice to manage our budget through these challenging times,” said Granholm. “Bob has earned not only my respect but the respect of those on both sides of the aisle as a fair and honest individual with a passion for making Michigan a better place for everyone. I am honored that Bob will continue his service to the citizens of Michigan” (State of Michigan- Office of the Governor, 2006).

Senator Emerson is married to Judy Samelson (CEO of the Early Childhood Investment Corporation) and is the proud father of four children (Philip, Melanie, Erin, & Ryan).

*. Boyd, Liz. [www.michigan.gov/documents/budget/Budget_Director_12-28-06_182002_7.doc "Governor Granholm to Name Bob Emerson Budget Director"] , "State of Michigan-Office of the Governor" December 28 2006. Accessed June 20 2007.