Jennifer Mulhern Granholm is a prominent figure in American politics. Born in Canada, she became a naturalized U.S. citizen and joined the Democratic Party. Her impressive career includes serving as Michigan's first female Attorney General (1999-2003) and the state's first female Governor (2003-2011). Currently, she holds the position of the 16th United States Secretary of Energy, appointed in 2021.
1911: End of Warner's Term
In 1911, Fred M. Warner's term as the governor of Michigan concluded.
February 5, 1959: Birth of Jennifer Mulhern Granholm
Jennifer Mulhern Granholm was born on February 5, 1959.
1969: End of Romney's Term
George W. Romney concluded his term as Michigan's governor in 1969.
1977: Graduation from San Carlos High School and Beauty Pageant Win
Jennifer Granholm graduated from San Carlos High School in 1977 and won the Miss San Carlos beauty pageant.
1978: Appearance on "The Dating Game" and Various Jobs
Jennifer Granholm appeared on the television show "The Dating Game" in 1978 and held jobs as a tour guide at Universal Studios, in customer service at the Los Angeles Times, and as the first female tour guide at Marine World Africa USA in Redwood City.
1980: Naturalization as U.S. Citizen and Political Involvement
At the age of 21, Jennifer Granholm became a naturalized U.S. citizen in 1980 and worked on John B. Anderson's independent presidential campaign.
1984: Graduation from the University of California, Berkeley
Jennifer Granholm earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Berkeley in 1984.
1984: Graduation from UC Berkeley and Activism
Jennifer Granholm, the first in her family to attend college, graduated from the University of California, Berkeley with a B.A. in political science and French in 1984. During this time, she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa and engaged in activism, including smuggling goods to Jewish people in the Soviet Union and participating in the Anti-Apartheid Movement.
1986: Marriage to Daniel Mulhern
In 1986, while studying at Harvard, Jennifer Granholm married fellow law student and Michigan native Daniel Mulhern. They took each other's surname as their middle names and have three children together.
1987: Graduation from Harvard Law School and Editorial Role
Jennifer Granholm successfully completed her Juris Doctor degree at Harvard University in 1987, graduating with honors. While at Harvard Law School, she served as editor-in-chief of the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review.
1987: Graduation from Harvard Law School
Jennifer Granholm graduated from Harvard Law School with a Juris Doctor degree in 1987.
1987: Clerkship for Judge Damon Keith
Jennifer Granholm began working as a clerk for Judge Damon Keith, a senior judge on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit, in 1987.
1988: End of Clerkship and Work on Michael Dukakis's Campaign
Jennifer Granholm concluded her clerkship with Judge Damon Keith in 1988 and subsequently joined Michael Dukakis's presidential campaign.
1989: Attorney in Wayne County Executive Office
Jennifer Granholm began working as an attorney in the Wayne County executive office in 1989.
1990: James Blanchard's Defeat
In 1990, James Blanchard, a former U.S. Ambassador to Canada and governor, was defeated for reelection by the incumbent governor, John Engler.
1991: Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan
In 1991, Jennifer Granholm took on the role of assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.
1991: Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm assumed the role of assistant U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan in 1991, where her work included prosecuting various criminals and advocating for consumer rights.
1993: Previous Accident
In 1993, Granholm was involved in an accident that resulted in lingering health issues, requiring her to undergo emergency surgery in April 2008. This incident serves as a reminder of the enduring impact that past events can have on one's well-being, even in the midst of a demanding career.
1994: John Smietanka's Previous Attorney General Candidacy
John Smietanka, Jennifer Granholm's opponent in the 1998 Attorney General race, was previously the Republican nominee for the same position in 1994.
1995: Appointment as Wayne County Corporation Counsel
Jennifer Granholm was appointed as the Corporation Counsel for Wayne County in 1995, becoming the youngest person to hold the position.
1995: Appointment to Wayne County Corporation Counsel
Jennifer Granholm was appointed to the position of Wayne County Corporation Counsel in 1995.
1998: Campaign for Attorney General of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm entered the race to succeed Frank J. Kelley as the Attorney General of Michigan in 1998. Her opponent was Republican John Smietanka, the 1994 nominee and former U.S. attorney for the Western District of Michigan.
1998: Campaign for Attorney General of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm launched her campaign for attorney general of Michigan in 1998.
1998: Smietanka's Perspective on Granholm's Rise
In 1998, Smietanka attributed Granholm's political success in part to actions taken by Engler during that year's election.
1998: Heavy Storms and Erosion at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course
Heavy storms in 1998 caused significant erosion at the Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course, leading to environmental concerns and eventually prompting a lawsuit by then-Attorney General Jennifer Granholm.
January 1, 1999: Swearing-in as Attorney General of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm was sworn into office as the first female attorney general of Michigan on January 1, 1999.
April 1999: Lawsuit Against RVP Development
Jennifer Granholm, in her capacity as Attorney General, announced a lawsuit against RVP Development in April 1999. The lawsuit pertained to allegations of environmental damage caused by the construction of the Arcadia Bluffs Golf Course.
December 1999: Pricing Errors at J.C. Penney
In December 1999, J.C. Penney experienced a high rate of pricing and scanning errors in their Michigan stores, an issue that eventually led to a settlement with then-Attorney General Jennifer Granholm.
1999: Michigan Jaycees "Outstanding Young Michiganders" and YWCA "Woman of the Year" Awards
In 1999, Jennifer Granholm received two distinguished awards in recognition of her outstanding contributions and leadership: the Michigan Jaycees "Outstanding Young Michiganders" award and the YWCA "Woman of the Year" award.
1999: Elected as Attorney General of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm was elected as the Attorney General of Michigan in 1999, marking the first woman to hold this position.
April 2000: Cancellation of "The Naked Mile"
Due to Jennifer Granholm's efforts, "The Naked Mile" at the University of Michigan was effectively canceled by April 2000.
July 2000: Settlement with J.C. Penney
Jennifer Granholm's office reached a settlement with J.C. Penney in July 2000 regarding pricing errors in their Michigan stores.
2000: Economic Challenges and Diversification Efforts
Michigan faced significant job losses starting in 2000 due to the decline of the U.S. manufacturing sector, particularly in the automobile industry, a cornerstone of Michigan's economy. To address this, Governor Granholm championed economic diversification efforts, aiming to reduce Michigan's dependence on automotive manufacturing. She introduced and secured funding for a $2 billion 21st Century Jobs Fund designed to stimulate job growth in sectors like life sciences, alternative energy, advanced manufacturing, and homeland security.
September 11, 2001: Response to September 11 Attacks
In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Governor Granholm demonstrated leadership by directing Michigan state agencies to collaborate with lawmakers. This collaboration aimed to effectively combat terrorism within the state's legal boundaries. Furthermore, she implemented a regulation for gasoline dealers to prevent price gouging, a problem that arose in Michigan following the attacks.
February 2002: Combating Telemarketing Fraud
In February 2002, Granholm joined forces with AARP's Michigan State Office to protect consumers from fraudulent telemarketing calls, showcasing her commitment to safeguarding the interests of Michigan residents.
2002: 2002 Michigan Gubernatorial Election
The 2002 Michigan gubernatorial election was significant as incumbent Republican governor John Engler faced term limits, creating an open race for the governor's office. Granholm entered the race and faced a competitive Democratic primary against former Governor James Blanchard and U.S. Representative David E. Bonior.
2002: Election as the First Female Governor of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm was elected as the first female governor of Michigan in 2002.
2002: Debate over Granholm's Political Ascent
Following Granholm's election as governor in 2002, a debate sparked between John Smietanka and then-Republican Governor John Engler about who had played a more significant role in her political rise.
2002: Granholm's Victory in the General Election
In the 2002 Michigan gubernatorial general election, Granholm emerged as the victor against Republican candidate Dick Posthumus, securing 51.42% of the votes. Notably, she garnered substantial support from specific demographics, including working women, African Americans, and voters under 30 years old. Her campaign effectively focused on her track record in crime reduction and her perceived charisma.
2002: Granholm's Reelection Campaign and Victory
In the 2002 Michigan gubernatorial election, Granholm ran for reelection against Republican challenger Dick DeVos. Her campaign, led by Howard Edelson, highlighted her efforts to revitalize Michigan's struggling economy and criticized DeVos's business record, particularly his time at Amway. Granholm secured a decisive victory, winning with 56% of the vote, demonstrating public support for her leadership and economic policies.
January 1, 2003: Inauguration as Michigan's First Female Governor
On January 1, 2003, Jennifer Granholm was sworn in as the 47th governor of Michigan, marking a historic moment as the state's first female governor. Beyond this achievement, she also became the third governor of Michigan who was not a natural-born U.S. citizen, following in the footsteps of Fred M. Warner and John Swainson.
August 2003: Settlement of Lawsuit Against RVP Development
The lawsuit filed against RVP Development was resolved in August 2003. As part of the settlement, RVP Development agreed to pay a fine.
2003: Launching Project Great Start
In her 2003 State of the State Address, Governor Granholm unveiled Project Great Start, an initiative aimed at comprehensive education reform for children from birth to five years old. This project reflected her commitment to early childhood development. It brought together public and private sectors to support new parents and promote reading to young children.
2003: End of Term as Attorney General of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm completed her term as the Attorney General of Michigan in 2003.
2003: Beginning of Governorship and End of Attorney General Term
Jennifer Granholm concluded her term as Attorney General of Michigan in 2003. This year also marked the start of her tenure as the 47th Governor of Michigan, making her the first woman to hold the position.
October 28, 2004: Induction into Michigan Women's Hall of Fame
On October 28, 2004, Jennifer Granholm was honored with induction into the prestigious "Michigan Women's Hall of Fame." This recognition celebrated her significant achievements and contributions to the state.
2004: Campaigning for John Kerry in the Presidential Election
During the 2004 presidential election, Granholm actively campaigned for Democratic nominee John Kerry in Michigan. She emphasized the economy as a primary concern for Michiganders, highlighting issues like the growing deficit, declining stock market, rising unemployment, and struggles within the auto industry.
2004: Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth
Governor Granholm, recognizing the need to adapt to Michigan's changing economic landscape and the decline of manufacturing jobs, prioritized post-secondary education. In 2004, she appointed Lieutenant Governor John D. Cherry to head the Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth. This commission aimed to double the number of college graduates in Michigan.
January 2005: Granholm's Early Budget Proposal
In a proactive move, Governor Granholm put forth an early budget proposal in January 2005, calling for a swift response from the legislature. She outlined the budget's key aspects during a press conference, emphasizing the need for immediate action. However, the Republican-controlled legislature resisted her proposal, leading to a budget impasse.
February 2005: Legislative Budget Showdown
In February 2005, a political standoff occurred when Michigan's Republican-controlled legislature declined to vote on Governor Granholm's proposed state budget. Their opposition stemmed from concerns over cuts to higher education funding. This event highlighted the ongoing tension between the governor and the legislature regarding budget priorities.
2006: 2006 Michigan Gubernatorial Election
The 2006 Michigan gubernatorial election saw Governor Granholm seeking a second term in office. Her opponent was Dick DeVos, a Republican businessman and politician. The election centered on key issues, including the state's economy and job creation.
2006: Re-election as Governor of Michigan
Jennifer Granholm secured a second term as Governor of Michigan in 2006.
2006: Implementation of the Michigan Merit Curriculum
As part of education reforms, the Michigan Merit Curriculum was implemented, requiring all high school students to complete a college-preparatory curriculum. This initiative, commencing with students entering high school in the fall of 2006, mandated four years of math and English/language arts and three years of science and social studies.
2006: Partisan Division in Michigan's Government
Following the 2006 elections, Michigan's state government experienced a partisan division of power. The Democrats regained control of the Michigan State House of Representatives, while the Republicans retained control of the Michigan Senate. This division contributed to legislative gridlock and challenges in passing a balanced budget.
August 2007: Launch of the No Worker Left Behind Act
In August 2007, Granholm launched the No Worker Left Behind Act, aimed at providing two years of free training or community college to unemployed and displaced workers. With a tuition assistance cap of $5,000 per year for two years, the program aimed to retrain individuals in high-demand occupations and emerging industries.
August 2007: Sinking Approval Ratings
In August 2007, Michigan's credit rating was downgraded from AA to AA− by Standard & Poor's due to a budget crisis. This crisis also contributed to a decline in Granholm's approval ratings, which plummeted from 43 percent to a low of 32 percent by December 2007, making hers one of the lowest approval ratings for a governor in the United States.
October 1, 2007: Government Shutdown Over Budget Impasse
A significant political clash occurred on October 1, 2007, resulting in a four-hour shutdown of non-essential state services in Michigan. This shutdown stemmed from a showdown between Governor Granholm and lawmakers over the FY 2008 state budget. The budget, eventually passed to resolve the crisis, included cuts to services, a freeze on spending in areas like the arts, a state income tax increase, and new service taxes on various businesses.
December 2007: Record Low Approval Ratings
By December 2007, Granholm's approval ratings reached a low of 32%, marking one of the lowest for a governor in the US. This was attributed to the ongoing budget crisis and Michigan's credit rating downgrade by Standard & Poor's from AA to AA− in August 2007.
January 29, 2008: Sixth State of the State Address
On January 29, 2008, Granholm delivered her sixth State of the State address, focusing on job creation in Michigan by attracting alternative energy companies to the state. Granholm envisioned the growth of this sector by implementing a renewable portfolio standard, requiring 10% of Michigan's energy to come from renewable sources by 2015 and 25% by 2025.
April 7, 2008: Film Industry Incentives Signed into Law
On April 7, 2008, Granholm signed into law a package of bills designed to boost the film industry in Michigan. These incentives provided tax breaks to filmmakers who chose to shoot their productions in Michigan and utilize local crews, indicating a commitment to fostering economic growth within the state's entertainment industry.
April 29, 2008: Emergency Surgery
On April 29, 2008, Granholm underwent emergency surgery to address a health issue that had lingered since a 1993 accident. This unforeseen event forced her to postpone a scheduled trip to Israel and Kuwait, highlighting the unexpected challenges that can arise in public life.
May 14, 2008: Request for Removal of Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick
On May 14, 2008, the Detroit City Council passed a resolution requesting that Granholm remove Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick from office. This resolution stemmed from the eight (later increased to ten) felony counts against Kilpatrick, marking a period of significant political turmoil and raising questions about accountability and leadership within the city.
September 3, 2008: Removal Hearing for Detroit Mayor
On September 3, 2008, Granholm initiated a removal hearing for Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick, outlining the legal grounds for the proceedings. This hearing followed a period of intense scrutiny and controversy surrounding Kilpatrick's tenure, ultimately leading to his resignation after pleading guilty to multiple charges.
September 2008: Practice Debates for Vice Presidential Nominee
During September 2008, Granholm stepped into the role of Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin for a series of practice debates with Democratic vice presidential nominee Joe Biden. This behind-the-scenes contribution to the presidential campaign highlighted Granholm's political acumen and willingness to assist fellow Democrats in their pursuit of national office.
November 2008: Trip to Israel and Kuwait
In November 2008, Granholm embarked on a trip to Israel and Kuwait, during which she signed a water technology partnership agreement with the Israeli government, underscoring her commitment to international collaboration in addressing critical resource management issues. She also delivered a keynote address at an automotive event organized by the Michigan Israel Business Bridge and the Israel Export Institute.
December 2008: Considered for U.S. Secretary of Energy
In December 2008, Jennifer Granholm was mentioned as a possible candidate for the U.S. Secretary of Energy position when President-elect Obama was assembling his first-term Cabinet.
2008: Automotive Industry Crisis
The period of 2008–2010 witnessed a severe crisis within the American automotive industry, prompting government intervention and sparking intense political debate. Granholm, having navigated this crisis as governor of Michigan, a state heavily reliant on the auto industry, drew upon her experience in her 2012 Democratic National Convention speech to advocate for President Obama's handling of the situation.
2008: FY 2008 Budget Crisis
The FY 2008 budget crisis in Michigan became a focal point of political tension and controversy, as Governor Granholm and the legislature struggled to reach an agreement on spending and revenue measures. The eventual compromise, reached after a government shutdown, drew criticism from some taxpayer and business groups who opposed the tax increases and proposed a recall campaign against Granholm and supporting lawmakers.
May 13, 2009: Consideration for Supreme Court Appointment
On May 13, 2009, the Associated Press reported that President Barack Obama was considering Granholm, among others, for a potential appointment to the United States Supreme Court. This consideration reflected Granholm's reputation as a prominent figure within the Democratic Party and her extensive legal and political experience.
May 2009: Shortlisted for Supreme Court
In May 2009, Jennifer Granholm was on the shortlist of candidates to replace retiring Associate Justice David Souter on the Supreme Court. She attended a CAFE standards meeting at the White House on May 19 and spoke with President Obama, although it is unclear if they discussed the potential court appointment. Ultimately, Obama chose Sonia Sotomayor, who was confirmed in August.
October 2009: Success of No Worker Left Behind Act
By October 2009, the Department of Energy, Labor, and Economic Growth reported the success of the No Worker Left Behind Act, with 62,206 individuals enrolled in the program. Of those who completed the training, 72% secured employment or retained their positions, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in retraining workers.
2009: Member of Barack Obama's Presidential Transition Team
Jennifer Granholm joined Barack Obama's presidential transition team in 2009.
May 2010: Considered for Supreme Court Again
In May 2010, after Associate Justice John Paul Stevens announced his retirement, Jennifer Granholm was again considered a potential candidate for the Supreme Court. However, President Obama chose Elena Kagan, who was confirmed in August.
July 2010: Continued Success of the No Worker Left Behind Act
By July 2010, over two years after its launch, the No Worker Left Behind Act had witnessed continued success. The program had 65,536 individuals actively engaged in training, while the dropout rate decreased to 13.1%, showcasing its long-term impact on workforce development.
October 21, 2010: Commander of the Royal Order of the Polar Star
On October 21, 2010, Jennifer Granholm was made a Commander of the Royal Order of the Polar Star, First Class, by the King of Sweden. This honor was in recognition of her efforts to foster relations between Michigan and Sweden to promote a clean energy economy.
December 2010: Rumored for U.S. Secretary of Energy
In December 2010, there were rumors that Jennifer Granholm might be selected as U.S. Secretary of Energy if Secretary Steven Chu decided to resign.
2010: End of Automotive Industry Crisis
By 2010, the American automotive industry began to recover from the severe crisis that gripped the sector from 2008 onward. Granholm, having witnessed the impact of the crisis firsthand as governor of Michigan, referenced this period in her 2012 Democratic National Convention speech, highlighting the effectiveness of President Obama's policies in reviving the industry.
2010: Barred from Seeking Re-election
In 2010, Granholm faced a significant career milestone as she was barred from seeking re-election for a third term as governor of Michigan due to the state's term limits law. This marked the end of her tenure as the first female governor of Michigan and paved the way for a new chapter in her career.
January 1, 2011: End of Governorship
On January 1, 2011, Granholm's second term as governor of Michigan came to an end due to term limits imposed by state law. Her departure from office marked a transition in Michigan politics, with Republican Rick Snyder, who won the 2010 election, assuming the governorship.
March 2011: Potential DNC Chair
In March 2011, as Tim Kaine prepared to resign as chairman of the Democratic National Committee to run for the U.S. Senate, Jennifer Granholm was mentioned as a potential successor. However, she quickly made it clear she was not interested, surprising and disappointing senior Democrats. U.S. Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz was elected instead.
May 2011: Joined Marinette Marine Corporation Board
In May 2011, Granholm assumed a new role on the board of directors at Marinette Marine Corporation, a Wisconsin-based shipbuilding company specializing in defense contracts. This appointment showcased her interest in supporting American manufacturing and her expertise in economic development, particularly in the industrial sector.
September 2011: "A Governor's Story" Book Release
In September 2011, Granholm and her husband co-authored and published "A Governor's Story: The Fight For Jobs and America's Economic Future." The book offered insights into her experiences as governor, particularly during the challenging economic climate, and aimed to draw lessons from Michigan's situation applicable to the nation's economic recovery.
October 2011: Joined Current TV as Host of "The War Room with Jennifer Granholm"
In October 2011, Granholm entered the world of political commentary as the host of a new program titled "The War Room with Jennifer Granholm" on Current TV. This venture allowed her to leverage her political experience and provide insightful analysis on current events to a broader audience.
October 2011: Resigned from Dow Chemical Company Board
In October 2011, Granholm stepped down from her position on the board of directors at Dow Chemical Company after serving from March of the same year. This decision reflected a strategic shift in her post-gubernatorial career path as she pursued opportunities aligned with her interests in clean energy and public policy.
2011: End of Governorship
Jennifer Granholm completed her time as the 47th Governor of Michigan in 2011.
2011: Publication of "A Governor's Story" and New Roles
After leaving office, Jennifer Granholm joined UC Berkeley and co-authored "A Governor's Story: The Fight for Jobs and America's Future" with her husband, Daniel Mulhern, which was published in 2011. She also became the host of "The War Room with Jennifer Granholm."
October 2012: Gained Recognition After 2012 Democratic National Convention Speech
Following her compelling and widely praised speech at the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina, Granholm experienced a surge in recognition and became a household name. Her address, delivered in October 2012, focused on the automotive industry crisis of 2008–2010, praising President Obama's decision to bail out General Motors and Chrysler while criticizing Mitt Romney's opposition to the measure.
2012: Considered for Second-term Cabinet
After President Obama was re-elected in 2012, Jennifer Granholm was reportedly considered for various positions in his second-term Cabinet, including Secretary of Energy, Secretary of Transportation, Secretary of Labor, and Attorney General. Granholm herself downplayed the speculation due to her criticism of Republicans during the 2012 election and her time on Current TV.
January 2013: Departed from Current TV
In January 2013, Granholm announced her departure from Current TV following the network's sale to Al Jazeera. This decision marked a turning point in her media career as she sought new platforms to engage in political commentary and public discourse.
March 2013: Carl Levin's Retirement Announcement
In March 2013, Michigan's senior U.S. senator, Democrat Carl Levin, announced he would not seek a seventh term in 2014. Jennifer Granholm was mentioned as a potential candidate to succeed him but soon after announced she would not run. She endorsed U.S. Representative Gary Peters, who won the general election.
August 2013: Joined Talmer Bancorp Board
Expanding her portfolio in the financial sector, Granholm joined the board of directors at Talmer Bancorp, a Michigan-based financial institution, in August 2013. This move demonstrated her commitment to contributing to the stability and growth of her home state's economy following her tenure as governor.
January 2014: Co-chair of Priorities USA Action
In January 2014, Jennifer Granholm was selected to co-chair Priorities USA Action alongside Jim Messina. She had previously expressed support for Hillary Clinton as a strong candidate for the 2016 presidential election. Granholm had also supported Clinton over Barack Obama in the 2008 election campaign. She considered running for the U.S. Senate to replace retiring Democrat Carl Levin but ultimately decided against it.
September 2014: Potential Attorney General Candidate
In September 2014, following U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder's announcement to step down, there was speculation that Jennifer Granholm might be a potential candidate to succeed him. However, Loretta Lynch was ultimately nominated and confirmed for the position.
August 2015: Transition to Correct the Record
In August 2015, after Hillary Clinton announced her campaign for the 2016 presidential election, Jennifer Granholm moved from Priorities USA Action to Correct the Record, another Clinton-aligned political committee. This new role allowed Granholm to serve as a direct surrogate for Clinton on the campaign trail.
2015: Renewable Portfolio Standard Target
By 2015, Michigan aimed to achieve 10% of its energy from renewable sources as part of the renewable portfolio standard proposed by Granholm in her 2008 State of the State Address. This initiative aimed to stimulate the alternative energy industry in Michigan and create job opportunities.
August 2016: Left Talmer Bancorp Board, Joined ChargePoint Board
In August 2016, Granholm's time on the board of Talmer Bancorp concluded when the company was acquired by Chemical Financial Corporation. Simultaneously, she joined the board of ChargePoint, a leading electric vehicle charging station network, highlighting her dedication to advancing clean energy solutions and sustainable transportation.
August 2016: Named to Clinton's Transition Planning Team
In August 2016, Hillary Clinton named Jennifer Granholm to the team planning for her potential presidential transition. This role indicated Granholm's significant involvement and influence in Clinton's campaign.
March 2017: Joined Proterra Board
Further solidifying her presence in the clean energy sector, Granholm joined the board of Proterra, a renowned manufacturer of electric buses and charging infrastructure, in March 2017. This strategic move aligned with her passion for promoting sustainable transportation options and reducing carbon emissions, building upon her previous work in clean energy advocacy.
2017: CNN Political Contributor
Jennifer Granholm joined CNN as a political contributor in 2017.
2020: Nomination for U.S. Secretary of Energy
President-elect Joe Biden announced his decision to nominate Jennifer Granholm for the position of United States Secretary of Energy in 2020.
January 27, 2021: Senate Committee Appearance
On January 27, 2021, Jennifer Granholm appeared before the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee as part of her nomination process for U.S. Secretary of Energy under President-elect Joe Biden. She was seen as one of Biden’s least controversial nominees.
February 3, 2021: Committee Vote
On February 3, 2021, the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee voted to advance Jennifer Granholm's nomination for U.S. Secretary of Energy with a 13–4 vote.
February 25, 2021: Senate Confirmation
On February 25, 2021, Jennifer Granholm was confirmed as U.S. Secretary of Energy by the Senate with a 64–35 vote. She was sworn into office later that day by Vice President Kamala Harris, becoming the first Secretary of Energy born outside the United States.
2021: Appointment as U.S. Secretary of Energy
In 2021, Jennifer Granholm assumed the role of the 16th United States Secretary of Energy.
2021: Energy Cooperation with Saudi Arabia
In 2021, Jennifer Granholm had a call with Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman Al Saud to discuss closer cooperation in the energy field. Later that year, she blamed the OPEC oil cartel led by Saudi Arabia and the U.S. gas and petroleum industry for rising fuel prices in the United States. When asked about plans to increase oil production in the U.S., she humorously responded, "That is hilarious. Would that I had the magic wand on this."
May 19, 2022: DOE Announces Carbon Capture Program
On May 19, 2022, the Department of Energy, under Jennifer Granholm's leadership, announced a $3.5 billion program funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The program aims to create four large-scale regional direct air capture hubs consisting of a network of carbon dioxide removal projects.
December 16, 2022: Clearing Oppenheimer's Name
On December 16, 2022, Jennifer Granholm cleared J. Robert Oppenheimer, the American theoretical physicist known as the 'father of the atomic bomb,' of the 1954 revocation of his security clearance. This decision was based on the conclusion that the original investigation was flawed.
2025: Renewable Portfolio Standard Target
Michigan set a goal to source 25% of its energy from renewable sources by 2025. This target, part of the renewable portfolio standard, was a testament to Granholm's vision of promoting alternative energy and creating jobs in the state, as outlined in her 2008 State of the State Address.