SAGINAW, MI — On Nov. 5, voters had the chance to elect a familiar name to the Saginaw City Council—or at least a familiar last name.
With a long history of leadership and advocacy, the Braddock family has been synonymous with dedicated public service in the city of Saginaw, and Eric Braddock Sr. is ready to uphold and expand that legacy.
Eric’s uncle, Pastor Charles Braddock, who took on leadership of St. Luke C.M.E. Church in 2010, had already established himself as a significant figure in Saginaw well before his pastoral role.
Before his untimely passing in 2013, Charles devoted his career to uplifting at-risk populations, serving in roles such as Director of the Summer Food Program, Finance Specialist, Research Analyst, and Law Enforcement Officer. As Executive Director of First Ward Community Services, he became a steadfast advocate for marginalized communities, expanding his influence statewide through his appointment to the Michigan Department of Corrections Parole Board Commission by Governor John Engler.
Inspired by his family’s impact and his own deep love for Saginaw, Eric decided to run for city council—a decision he first contemplated four years ago.
“I waited too late to get my paperwork in order back then,” Eric admitted. “But looking back, I think those four years gave me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the community and prepare for this moment.”
Ironically, Eric faced the same level of competition this year as he would have four years ago, with 11 candidates vying for the five available four-year terms. Now elected, he is eager to continue his family’s tradition of service and build a legacy of his own.
After an accomplished 20-year military career as an Army combat veteran, Eric returned to Saginaw in 2018 to be closer to family. Since then, he has dedicated himself to the community as a basketball coach and youth interventionist, focusing on shaping the next generation by fostering leadership, responsibility, and integrity in young people—a reflection of the values his family has long championed.
“Saginaw is my home,” Eric said. “I’ve seen its challenges and its potential, and I want to be a part of its revitalization—building a community where everyone has opportunities to thrive.”
Eric never expected—or wanted—to win based solely on his last name. He actively connected with the community, engaged with neighborhood organizations, and shared his vision on various platforms. His campaign emphasized public safety, community engagement, and economic inclusion.
“2024 will usher in the next generation of young political leadership in the city of Saginaw. With that comes the next generation from the Braddock family in the form of Eric D. Braddock Sr.,” said Norman Braddock, a former Saginaw Public School Board president. “Eric is a product of Saginaw, a graduate of Saginaw High School, and a retired veteran. The grandson of Talmadge Braddock and nephew of George Braddock, he is a proven leader, and I am confident he will serve the citizens of Saginaw with dedication.”
Norman’s own legacy is notable. First elected to the Saginaw school board in 1999, he later joined the City Council in 2011, where he received more votes than any other candidate. Over the years, he held roles such as Director of Quality and Business Development for SVRC Industries Inc., spent two decades at General Motors’ Saginaw Steering Gear Division (Nexteer), and led the Minority Entrepreneur Development Projects.
Sheilda Braddock, Eric’s aunt and a Community Development Liaison for Isabella Bank, emphasized his commitment to supporting young people.
“Eric brings a strong sense of service and leadership to the community,” Sheilda said. “His dedication to youth development shines through in his work and the countless hours he has spent teaching young people important values like character, responsibility, leadership, and integrity. With his proven track record of service to both his city and his country, Eric is the ideal representative for Saginaw on City Council.”
Joining Braddock on the council will be Jacinta J.J. Seals, another first-time council member and daughter of former Mayor Joyce Seals, along with Heidi G. Wiggins. Incumbents Bill Ostash and Monique Lamar-Silvia secured additional terms. Carly Rose Hammond also won a seat in a separate race for a two-year term. Together, they will join Mayor Brenda Moore, Priscilla Garcia, and Michael Balls.
The new City Council members will be sworn in at today’s meeting at 6:30 p.m., where they will also elect the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem. The meeting will be streamed live on the city’s YouTube channel.
