Ever-smiling and always the big dreamer, Austin Chenge, 40, from Grand Rapids, West Michigan, is an American Conservative, Businessman, Decorated U.S. Army Veteran, and former Republican candidate for Governor of Michigan.

A dynamic entrepreneur, Austin has built a career defined by bold vision, hard work, and a relentless drive to turn ambitious ideas into tangible success. A graduate of the University of Birmingham Law School in England, he launched his first venture at 25, successfully raising over $200,000 in funding before expanding operations to San Jose, California — the heart of Silicon Valley. In 2011, he developed an innovative social networking feature known as “Waving,” a forward-thinking concept that anticipated interactive elements later embraced by major platforms.

As a U.S. Army Veteran, Austin served with unwavering honor and excellence. During his active duty, he was decorated with the U.S. Army Achievement Medal as a Distinguished Honor Graduate—a resounding testament to his exceptional skill, leadership and dedication. In addition, he was decorated with two Army Reserve Component Achievement Medals for exceptional performance and outstanding leadership contributions.

In 2022, Austin brought his entrepreneurial energy and deep commitment to Michigan communities into the political arena as the first Republican candidate for Governor of Michigan in the 2022 election cycle. Demonstrating unmatched grassroots dedication, he became the first gubernatorial candidate in more than three to four decades to personally visit all 83 counties across the state. Over the course of seven weeks, he traveled more than 11,000 miles, beginning in the remote Keweenaw Peninsula, covering the entire Upper Peninsula, Northern Michigan, and every region of the Lower Peninsula. Along the way, he met face-to-face with small business owners, farmers, families, sheriffs, and everyday Michiganders — listening to their challenges and sharing his vision for a stronger, freer, and more prosperous Michigan.

Austin’s campaign raised more than 19,000 petition signatures — surpassing the required 15,000 by over 4,000 — proving strong grassroots support and successfully qualifying for the ballot. In a principled decision to preserve conservative unity, he strategically withdrew from the race to avoid splitting the vote.

A devout Christian, husband and father, Austin resides in West Michigan with his wife and three beautiful children.

 

He remains committed to promoting and defending conservative American values in Michigan and beyond.