Cindy Gamrat (born June 20, 1970) is an American political activist and former Republican member of the Michigan House of Representatives. She represented the 81st district, encompassing parts of Montcalm and Mecosta counties, from 2011 until her expulsion in December 2015 following an ethics investigation.
Early life and education
- Birthplace: Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S.
- Education: Bachelor of Arts in political science from Siena College (New York); Master of Public Administration from Michigan State University.
Political career
| Year | Position | Party | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004–2008 | Legislative aide to Rep. Peter Pettina (MI) | Republican | Gained experience in state legislative processes. |
| 2008–2010 | Campaign manager for various local Republican candidates | Republican | Involved in grassroots organizing. |
| 2010 | Elected to Michigan House, 81st district | Republican | Defeated Democratic opponent in the general election. |
| 2012, 2014 | Re‑elected to Michigan House | Republican | Served on committees including Health Policy, Commerce, and Regulatory Reform. |
During her tenure, Gamrat advocated for limited government, lower taxes, and pro‑business regulations. She sponsored legislation on regulatory reform, opioid‑related issues, and school choice.
Ethics investigation and expulsion
In 2015, the Michigan House Ethics Committee opened an investigation after allegations that Gamrat had engaged in an extramarital relationship with former political consultant Todd Courtright, who was under investigation for bribery and lobbying violations. The committee found that:
- Gamrat had a sexual relationship with Courtright while he was a lobbyist.
- She used her official position to benefit his consulting firm, including arranging meetings and influencing legislation.
- She failed to disclose the relationship, violating House rules on conduct and conflicts of interest.
The Committee recommended expulsion. On December 30, 2015, the full House voted 99–1 in favor of expelling Gamrat, making her the first legislator expelled from the Michigan House in over a century. She was barred from holding public office in Michigan for five years.
Post‑legislative activities
- Political consulting: Founded a consulting firm focusing on conservative campaigns and voter outreach.
- 2016–2020: Served as a spokesperson for various right‑leaning organizations, including the Michigan Conservative Federation.
- 2021: Announced a bid for the U.S. Senate seat held by Democrat Debbie Stabenow. She later withdrew from the race, citing personal considerations.
- 2022: Ran in the Republican primary for Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District; she was defeated in the primary election.
Personal life
- Spouse: Brian Gamrat (married 1995).
- Children: Two.
- Residence: Montcalm County, Michigan.
Controversies and public reception
Gamrat’s expulsion generated significant media attention and polarized public opinion. Supporters framed the action as a politically motivated effort to silence a conservative voice, while critics viewed it as a necessary enforcement of ethical standards in government. The case prompted the Michigan Legislature to review and tighten its ethics and conflict‑of‑interest rules.
See also
- Michigan House of Representatives ethics investigations
- List of expelled legislators in U.S. state governments
References
- Michigan House of Representatives, Official Biography (archived).
- Detroit Free Press, “Michigan House votes to expel Rep. Cindy Gamrat,” December 30, 2015.
- Associated Press, “Former Michigan lawmaker announces Senate run,” July 13, 2021.
- Ballotpedia, “Cindy Gamrat,” accessed 2024.
