James Townsend will succeed Jim Ananich as chair of Michigan’s gambling regulator next week
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has appointed James Townsend as the new chair of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB).
Townsend will begin his new role on 1 August, succeeding Jim Ananich, who is resigning at the end of this month.
Townsend is the director of the Levin Center for Oversight and Democracy at Wayne State University, and previously practiced law in the Detroit office of Butzel Long as a member of its Corporate and Real Estate Practice Group.
He also represented the 26th District in the Michigan House of Representatives from 2011 to 2017.
His appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.
“Jim Townsend is a proven leader whose legal, legislative, and economic development experience make him exceptionally well-suited to lead the Board,” said Henry Williams, executive director of the MGCB. “I look forward to working alongside him as the Board carries out its critical mission on behalf of Michigan residents.”
Townsend will serve as Board chair alongside current members Joni Thrower Davis, Mark Evenson, Deidre Lambert-Bounds, and Andrew Palms.
Earlier this week, Ananich confirmed his resignation as chair of the MGCB, having been appointed by Governor Whitmer in April 2025.
“On behalf of the entire Board and staff, I want to sincerely thank Jim Ananich for his service and contributions to the Michigan Gaming Control Board,” said Williams. “His leadership, legislative experience, and commitment to public accountability have been a tremendous asset to the Board, and we are grateful for the time and dedication he brought to this role.”