Curtis Hertel Jr. holds a bachelor's degree from James Madison College at Michigan State University. He began his public service career on the Ingham County Board of Commissioners, where he served for several years. Hertel Jr. then transitioned to a legislative liaison role for the Department of Community Health, followed by a tenure as Ingham County Register of Deeds, during which he filed a notable lawsuit against major mortgage firms. He was elected to the Michigan State Senate, where he introduced several bills, including measures on tax credits for college graduates, affirmative consent education, and support for firefighters with cancer.

Curtis Hertel Jr. blends progressive education reforms with fiscal incentives for Michigan residents, as seen in his support for affirmative consent education and tax credits for college graduates staying in the state. His legislative efforts to aid first responders with cancer reveal a compassionate approach to public safety issues. Hertel's stance on political finance, advocating for free speech in campaign contributions, adds an intriguing dimension to his otherwise left-leaning policy positions. This juxtaposition suggests a strategic ideological flexibility aimed at balancing progressive values with pragmatic considerations.