A senior leader at the University of Michigan is facing serious questions after leaked online messages appeared to show sexual comments about a political strategist and a student. The messages are linked to regent Jordan Acker, who has been a key figure in campus decisions and student protest policies. The claims come at a sensitive time as he runs for re-election in a heated university governing board race. The board of regents controls major decisions at the university, including budget, policy, and leadership. This year’s election has become highly political and emotionally charged. It reflects national debates over Israel and Palestine, which have also reached U.S. campuses. Acker has taken a strong pro-Israel position in public. He has also supported legal action against some student protesters during campus demonstrations. These actions made him a well-known and controversial figure. The election will decide two open seats on the board, and the result may shape campus policy for years. Screenshots of group chat messages from 2020 and 2021 show comments that appear to be from Acker in a private Slack group. The messages include sexual remarks about a Democratic strategist and a female university student. Some posts also contain personal details about private relationships and health-related claims. The Guardian reviewed several message threads and cross-checked account information linked to Acker’s name. Multiple people who were part of the group said they saw the messages when they were originally posted. The group had about 30 members, mostly professionals discussing Michigan politics and sports. Members were not part of the election campaign, but conversations often included political opinions and personal jokes. The strategist mentioned in the messages was not publicly named to protect privacy. Acker’s lawyer strongly denies the allegations. He says Acker has never used Slack and questions the authenticity of the screenshots shared. However, the statement did not clearly confirm whether Acker is directly denying all messages. The strategist mentioned in the posts did not respond to requests for comment. Acker is backed by several major political figures and unions. This includes state leaders and a U.S. Senate candidate. His opponent, Amir Makled, is a defense attorney from Dearborn. Makled has represented some student protesters who faced legal action from the university. He is supported by progressive groups and several labor unions. Makled said the messages are troubling if they are proven real. He also said he has faced false accusations in the campaign and wants fair treatment. The race comes during a wider debate over free speech and student protest rights on campus. The university has faced criticism for its response to pro-Palestinian demonstrations. Some investigations and legal actions were later dropped after public reporting. Supporters of Acker say he acted to protect campus safety and order. Critics say his approach was too aggressive and limited student expression. The issue has created strong divisions among students, staff, and political groups in Michigan. Election delegates will vote soon to choose the final candidates for the November election. The decision is expected to be closely watched across Michigan politics. The outcome may also reflect wider national tensions over campus protests and political speech.