Rachel Hood (politician)

Rachel Hood (born October 12, 1976) is an American politician from Michigan. Hood is a Democratic member of Michigan House of Representatives from the old District 76, but now represents District 81.

Early life
On October 12, 1976, Hood was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan or Livonia, Michigan.

Education
In 1999, Hood earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Relations from Michigan State University. According to some sources, Hood also earned a degree in Public Policy from Michigan State University's James Madison College.

Early career
In 2000, Hood started her career as an executive director of West Grand Neighborhood Association, where she was involved in crime prevention and community development. In 2005, Hood was a Community Relations Manager at Metro Health Hospital in Wyoming, Michigan. Hood is a co-founder of Local First and City Built Brewing Company. Hood is a former strategist consultant at Dig Deep Research. She is also the former executive director of the West Michigan Environmental Action Council.

In the 2016 elections in Kent County, Hood ran for Drain Commissioner but lost the election in a close race.

State legislature
On November 6, 2018, Hood won the election and became a Democratic member of Michigan House of Representatives for District 76. Hood defeated Amanda Brand with 60% of the vote. Hood successfully ran for re-election in 2020 with 62% of the vote. She ran successfully for her third consecutive term in 2022, this time for the 81st House District, due to statewide re-districting. She ran against one-term State Representative Lynn Afendoulis of Grand Rapids and won with 55% of the vote.

Personal life
Hood's husband is Dave Petroelje. They have two children, Evelyn and Ineke. Hood and her family live in Grand Rapids, Michigan. She is a Presbyterian.