Richard D. McLellan is a retired Lansing-based lawyer who served as chairman of the Michigan Law Revision Commission from 1986 to 2021. McLellan has a 50-year career focusing on public policy and politics. He is recognized as one of Michigan’s most prominent and influential citizens. The Detroit Free Press reported, “He’s seldom seen in the state Capitol and less likely to be noticed. . . . Take a look at someone who may well be the most influential person in Michigan you have never heard of.”

McLellan has served as founder of two organizations: The Mackinac Center for Public Policy and the Trust for Trauma Journalism. He has long been a supporter of the First Amendment and helped establish the McLellan Online Free Speech Library at Michigan State University and the Richard D. McLellan Prizes for Freedom of Speech and Expression at the Russell Kirk Center.

McLellan has served in a wide range of public service positions in Michigan, including chairman of the Corrections Commission, chairman of the Michigan Film Advisory Commission, member of the International Trade Authority, and member of the Michigan Jobs Commission.

McLellan served as transition director in 1990 for then-Governor-elect John Engler. Before entering private practice, McLellan served as administrative assistant to Michigan Governor William G. Milliken. He is a graduate of Michigan State University and the University of Michigan Law School.