James "Jim" DeSana is a Republican member of the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 29th District, which includes parts of Monroe and Wayne counties such as Monroe, Taylor, Romulus, the village of Carleton, Ash and Huron townships, and part of Frenchtown Township. First elected in November 2022 with 51.5% of the vote, he was reelected in 2024 and sworn in for his second term on January 2, 2025. A lifelong Downriver resident from Ash Township , he runs a family farm raising sheep and cattle and has deep community ties, including serving as son of former state Senator James DeSana Sr. . Married to Stephanie for over 36 years, they have eight children and 14 grandchildren and attend St. Stephen Catholic Church in New Boston.

Notable achievements and positions: Serves on the influential House Appropriations Committee and subcommittees including Agriculture and Rural Development/Natural Resources, Human Services, and State and Local Transportation ; previously on Higher Education. Community involvement includes chairing the Heartbeat of Monroe Walk for Life, membership in Knights of Columbus, Michigan Right to Life, Michigan Sheep Producers, Michigan Cattleman’s Association, National Rifle Association, and founding Michigan Monarchs/Catholic Baseball Players for Christ.

Education and Political Experience

Education: Earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Management from the University of Detroit Mercy.

Professional and Political Experience: Worked 36 years as a sales representative in the fastener industry ; owns and operates Shamrock Station family farm; NCAA baseball umpire. Elected to Michigan House in 2022 and reelected 2024; no prior elected office noted beyond family legacy.