Libertarian Dye Lacks Law Degree For AG Post

Jason Dye, the Libertarian Party nominee for Michigan attorney general, does not hold a law license. He founded We The People News, an online media platform, before entering the race. The state’s current attorney general, Dana Nessel, is term-limited and will not run again.

The question of Dye’s eligibility stems from a 1937 Michigan Supreme Court case. In Attorney General ex Rel Cook v. O'Neill, the court ruled that the name of the office implies a requirement for bar membership. University of Detroit Mercy Law professor Aman McLeod stated that this precedent would likely prevent a non-attorney from serving. McLeod explained that if Dye won the election, a quo warranto suit would likely be filed to challenge his qualifications.

Dye said he decided to run after Anthony Hudson, a former Republican candidate for governor, encouraged him. Dye asked whether an attorney general had to be a lawyer and was told the answer was no. He cited the Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution, arguing that state laws must align with federal standards. Dye expressed a desire to eliminate the Bar Association and qualified immunity, viewing both as tools used against the public.

A spokesperson for the Secretary of State’s office confirmed that neither the Michigan Constitution nor state election law explicitly mandates a law license for the position. Dye’s name appears on the ballot for the November election. If a court ruled against him after he was sworn in, McLeod said the office would be vacated. If he had not yet taken office, the runner-up might assume the role, or the governor could appoint a replacement.

Dye said he would not necessarily run the website if elected. He described his role as posting content while others contributed material. He characterized his platform as being 1,000% against data centers, Flock cameras, and large corporations. He plans to appoint Michael Komorn of Southfield as assistant attorney general to represent the state in court.

Dye identified restoring the republic as a top priority. He defined this as removing corruption and holding officials accountable. He stated that data centers erode water and farmland, while Flock cameras violate Fourth and First Amendment rights. Dye said he would use the office to challenge these issues on behalf of the people.

The candidate noted that he is friends with Thomas Howell, a candidate for state supreme court justice who is also not a bar attorney. Dye said the state requires a bar license for that position. He argued that rights should not be converted into privileges regulated by licenses or fees. He described his past experience in the courts as preparation for managing a team of attorneys.