Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel has endorsed Christina Hines in her campaign to unseat county Prosecutor Peter Lucido in November.

The endorsement of a Democrat by a Democrat was announced Friday afternoon by Hines.

Hackel said in a statement released by Hines he is backing her “not only because she is the only candidate with prosecutorial experience, but because she has consistently demonstrated the ability to hold offenders accountable while effectively working with law enforcement and community partners. Her dedication to the people she serves is unquestioned and I am confident that she will lead the Prosecutor’s Office with the highest level of integrity.”

Hines said she is “honored” to receive the endorsement.

“Macomb County deserves more leaders like Mark — leaders who are dedicated to working in a bipartisan way to put the people of Macomb County first, and who lead with integrity,” Hines said in a statement. “I want to be one of those leaders, and I want to fight to ensure that our children and grandchildren can have the same safety, freedom, and opportunities that we had growing up.”

Though Hackel has endorsed Republicans in the past, the endorsement is not a surprise as Hackel and Lucido have butted heads numerous times since Lucido took office in 2021 after beating Mary Chrzanowski in November 2020. They have wrangled over staffing issues, and Hackel commissioned a law firm to investigate workplace complaints against Lucido.

The GOP-controlled county Board of Commissioners has mostly sided with Lucido in the disputes.

Hackel added in his statement he does not endorse based on political party affiliation.

“My decisions are always based on who is best suited for the job and who is of the highest level of integrity to do the job,” he said. “That’s why I’ve endorsed other countywide candidates like (Republicans) Candice Miller, Anthony Forlini, Larry Rocca and (Democrat) Anthony Wickersham. I will continue to support candidates who put people first and who are exceptionally qualified for the job.

“Macomb County deserves Christina Hines to serve as our next Prosecutor. For the past decade, Christina has fought tirelessly for victims of sexual assault and child abuse. She has proven herself as a leader who brings communities together, develops innovative programs to reduce crime and works side by side with law enforcement to protect our children from online predators. Christina is smart, tough and always willing to stand up for what is right.”

Hines also has also been endorsed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Attorney General Dana Nessel and several labor unions.