James E. Tate, Jr. serves as President of the Detroit City Council and represents District 1, the community he has called home throughout his life. First elected in 2009, President Tate is currently the Council’s longest serving member. His tenure has spanned some of Detroit’s most consequential periods, including municipal bankruptcy, the COVID 19 pandemic and the city’s continuing recovery.
President Tate has made accessible government and community engagement central to his leadership. His longstanding District 1 monthly meetings connect residents directly with government officials, community leaders and decision makers. He also launched Di$cover D1, Detroit’s first district wide online business directory, to increase visibility and opportunity for neighborhood businesses.
Throughout his Council tenure, President Tate has focused on affordable and accessible housing, homeownership, economic opportunity and development that benefits Detroit residents. His leadership on Detroit’s adult use cannabis ordinance centered equity and ownership opportunities for longtime Detroiters, particularly communities disproportionately affected by marijuana enforcement during the War on Drugs.
Through his Protect Your Crown initiative, President Tate works to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage residents to seek information, re-sources and support. His commitment to young people also includes involvement with the Task Force on Black Male Engagement, helping create opportunities for Detroit youth.
President Tate believes Detroit’s progress should be measured by whether residents can see themselves in the city’s future. That philosophy guides his focus on housing, economic opportunity, transportation, neighborhood investment and responsive government.
A proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., President Tate resides in Detroit with his wife, Dr. Nutrena Watts Tate, a nurse leader and advocate for health and community service.
