Stephen Wooden is a Democratic state representative for Michigan's 81st House District, which includes northeast Grand Rapids, Ada Township, most of Grand Rapids Township, and southern Plainfield Township. Born on August 6, 1991, in Austin, Texas, he is married to Adelyn Wooden, with whom he has a son, Sam ; they reside in Grand Rapids' Creston neighborhood. Elected in November 2024 and sworn in January 2025, he serves on the House Committee on Natural Resources and Tourism and as Democratic Vice-Chair of the House Committee on Election Integrity. Notable achievements include leading the creation of Kent County's $58.3 million Affordable Housing Revolving Loan Fund as a commissioner, negotiating a $108 million American Rescue Plan spending plan, and working on initiatives to combat lead poisoning, expand mental health services, and improve rural internet access.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Graduated from Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School; earned a B.A. in Political Theory & Constitutional Democracy from Michigan State University . An Eagle Scout from Troop 271.
• Early Career: Legislative Aide, Michigan House of Representatives ; Public Policy and Communications Manager, Michigan Energy Innovation Business Council .
• Nonprofit Work: Housing & Community Development Associate and Manager at Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids, contributing to nearly 1,000 affordable apartments and homes.
• Political Roles: Kent County Commissioner , where he unseated a Republican incumbent in 2018 and served as minority vice-chair ; currently in his first term in the Michigan House. Active in community roles, including Creston Neighborhood Association board and land use committee, and Grand Rapids Housing Appeals Board.