Joanna Whaley is a spiritual care provider running for the Michigan House of Representatives in District 2, which includes Allen Park, Lincoln Park, Melvindale, and parts of Southgate, Michigan. Through her work in local hospitals, she has listened to families facing difficult personal, medical, and financial circumstances. These experiences motivated her to run for office and advocate for a government that serves all residents. After coming out as transgender, Joanna rebuilt her life and career, returning to college with the support of her Christian faith, family, and community.

Joanna Whaley’s policy priorities include infrastructure improvements, economic affordability, healthcare access, medical debt relief, and civil rights protections. She supports addressing water infrastructure and water quality problems in Melvindale and improving roads in Lincoln Park. She also advocates for reducing household expenses through lower utility bills, promoting fair wages, and expanding job training opportunities that help residents access employment and build stable careers.

Healthcare affordability and access are central to Joanna’s campaign. Based on her experience supporting families in local hospitals, she recognizes the financial barriers that prevent people from obtaining medical care. She supports expanding access to high-quality, affordable healthcare, addressing medical debt, and protecting patients from insurance companies that deny or delay coverage. Joanna also supports strengthening civil rights protections and promoting equal treatment for all communities.