Jordan Acker, a regent at the University of Michigan, is facing backlash after obscene messages attributed to him emerged, revealing lewd comments about a Democratic party strategist and a female student. The messages, shared with the Guardian, were sent in a Slack group and have raised questions about Acker's candidacy as he seeks re-election in a contentious race against progressive attorney Amir Makled. Acker, known for his confrontational pro-Israel stance, has led initiatives against pro-Palestinian students, including unusual prosecutions and surveillance operations that were later dropped following media scrutiny. The upcoming election for two open regent seats is particularly heated, with pro-Israel and pro-Palestinian candidates vying for influence at the university. Acker's endorsements from prominent figures like Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senate candidate Mallory McMorrow may be jeopardized by the revelations. Makled, who has received support from various graduate unions, condemned the messages as reprehensible if true. The election's outcome will be significantly influenced by the delegates' votes at the upcoming convention.