State Representative Ranjeev Puri serves as the Michigan House Democratic Leader, elected by his colleagues to lead the fight for a stronger, more inclusive Michigan. Since his first election in 2020, he has made history as the first person of color to represent his district and the first Sikh-American in Michigan’s legislative history. In his second term, he was selected as majority whip, making him the highest-ranking South Asian in state government nationwide.
The son of Indian immigrants, Leader Puri was raised with the values of hard work, service and opportunity. Inspired by these principles, he worked on President Barack Obama’s campaigns in 2008 and 2012, where he was personally challenged by President Obama to create meaningful change in his own community. He later earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and returned to Michigan, where he worked in the automotive industry, helping develop innovative solutions to keep Michigan’s economy and auto sector competitive in a rapidly evolving world.
As a legislator, Leader Puri has been a driving force behind transformative policies. Following the Michigan State University shooting, he was tapped to lead on common-sense gun legislation, building consensus to pass historic firearm safety measures. He has also been a strong advocate for economic growth and infrastructure investments, working to ensure Michigan remains a hub for innovation and prosperity.
As chair of the Transportation Subcommittee on Appropriations, Puri played a key role in crafting Michigan’s $6.6 billion Michigan Department of Transportation budget for fiscal year 2024. Under his leadership, Michigan made historic first-time investments in new transportation technology and mobility infrastructure, ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively.
His leadership has earned national recognition, including being named to the Council of State Government’s “20 Under 40” Leadership Award Class of 2023 and receiving the MIRS Legislator of the Year Award in 2024.
Beyond his legislative work, Leader Puri is deeply committed to his community, serving on nonprofit boards and working to elevate diverse voices in public service. He remains steadfast in his mission to make Michigan a place where all communities — regardless of background or belief — can thrive.
Ranjeev lives in Canton with his wife and their three young sons.