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Deandre Barnes

DemocraticFirst-time candidate

Educator

Deandre Barnes is a Democratic candidate for Michigan State Senate District 16 in the 2026 election. This is their first run for office.

From the candidate’s public filings

Background

Deandre Barnes earned a high school diploma from Theodore Roosevelt High School, a bachelor's degree from the University of Toledo in 2004, and a graduate degree from Purdue Global University in 2010. Barnes' career experience includes working as an educator.[1]

Graduate:
Purdue Global University, 2010
Bachelor's:
The University of Toledo, 2004
High school:
Theodore Roosevelt High School

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Deandre Barnes is a middle school teacher, a Newport resident, and a dedicated advocate for Michigan families. He is running to bring common-sense solutions, a focus on the future, and a voice for the hardworking people of our district to the State Senate.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

As an educator and dedicated advocate for Michigan families, I am running for State Senate to ensure our community thrives in an evolving world. My "Focus On The Future" campaign is built on the belief that Michigan’s best days are ahead if we invest in our people today.My top priorities include modernizing our education system to prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce, expanding access to affordable healthcare, and protecting our natural resources for future generations. By leveraging my experience in the classroom, I will champion policies that support working parents and foster economic innovation. Together, we can build a resilient, forward-thinking Michigan that honors our hardworking roots while fearlessly embracing the opportunities of the future.The primary challenge facing Michigan residents is economic uncertainty driven by the rising cost of living, from groceries to housing. Families are struggling to keep pace with inflation while navigating an evolving job market. The best solution is a "Focus On The Future" approach: investing in modern education and workforce training to secure high-paying jobs and implementing common-sense policies that lower everyday costs for families.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

First, education is my primary passion. Having extensive experience in the classroom, I am dedicated to modernizing our school systems to better prepare students for tomorrow’s workforce. This includes streamlining standardized testing to maximize critical instructional time, expanding project-based learning, and securing robust, equitable public funding while strictly avoiding the diversion of taxpayer dollars to private voucher systems. Furthermore, I passionately

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Currently involved in endorsement cycle

On the 2026 ballot

Links

Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.

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