Economic growth and how to achieve it are at the top of the platform for most candidates for government office — whether it be for local, state or national seats of representation. Regional economic catalyst, Southwest Michigan First, reached out to 2022 candidates for office to get their take on growing the economy. From now until the election, we’ll share the answers of those who responded to our questions. Let’s meet the candidates for the Michigan House of Representatives (in alphabetical order by last name):
This content is sponsored by ITC.
NOTE: Jared Polonowski (D) and Roger Williams (D) declined to respond. No response was received from Steve Carra (R), Andrew Fink (R), Terry Haines (R), Matt Hall (R), Sara Lightner (R), Dave Morgan (R), Brad Paquette (R) or Andrew Watkins (D).
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 38
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
As a licensed attorney and a policy analyst for the AFL-CIO, I have extensive knowledge of how policy and legislation works, and it is drafted. I am able to hit the ground running as soon as I am in office to make a difference in my community.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I was motivated to run for office when I saw the lack of representation for my community. For too long, my district has been ignored and issues have gone unchecked for too long. I want Southwest Michigan to be the place people want to raise their families, and we need representation that will fight for its workers, economy and basic rights.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
My top priorities are: addressing the affordable housing crisis driven in part by the short term rental industry, expanding skilled trades training programs in our schools and communities and ensuring that our Great Lakes and beaches are protected.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
In the neighborhoods that are struggling to get a handle on the short-term rental crisis, I plan to work with the municipalities and give them the tools that will help them regulate the rentals and keep control in their hands. I will work to expand the programs in our schools, as well as work with our labor unions to bring partnerships locally to give people a path into apprenticeship programs. Our Great Lakes and beaches need to be protected, and I plan to enforce and promote water quality standards and work to restore native vegetation that will help with erosion. I also want to protect and expand parks along the natural beauty of our coastline.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Some of the steps that I plan on taking upon being elected are increasing funding to our local community colleges, increasing our skilled workforce by making training programs more accessible and lessening the regulations on our local small businesses so they are able to thrive.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
Within my capabilities, I will work to expand the local workforce and create more diversity in skilled trades and technical training.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
I have and will prioritize talking with local officials regardless of their political ideations. We need to work together for our communities and set our differences aside.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice are a high priority for my district. In the 38th District, there are diverse populations that I will be representing, as well as the communities that border our Great Lakes.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
After being elected, I plan on continuing my field program to stay in touch with my constituents. Knocking doors is one of the most effective ways to reach members in my district. I will also hold coffee hours and send regular updates so not only can my constituents reach me, they will know what I am doing for them and their families. We will have a constituency services office in the district accessible as well.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
My long-term political and career goals are to be elected as State Representative and serve my term and to represent my community fully and to the best of my ability for the duration of my time in the office.
Campaign Song
“Hold the Line” by Tom Morello
Favorite Movie
True Romance
Favorite Book
“Slaughterhouse Five” by Kurt Vonnegut
Favorite Food
Shawarma
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 44
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I’m an attorney who practices workers’ compensation and disability law. I’ve spent my career helping others through devastating circumstances getting them back on a path to live full lives. Prior to election to the House in 2018, I served four terms on the Calhoun County Commission. I’m active in several organizations serving Battle Creek and surrounding communities including: The Haven of Rest, the NAACP’s of Albion and Battle Creek, the Southwest Michigan Urban League, the Salvation Army, and in the past have served as a board member of the Art Center of Battle Creek, Battle Creek Pride and The Kiwanis Club of Battle Creek.
What is your motivation for running for office?
Each day, I approach public service with the goal of making sure the Michigan that I was lucky enough to have grown up in is there for my children and grandchild. Our state has a rich history, and I feel a strong sense of duty to make sure we continue to be leaders in public education, innovative manufacturing and protecting our natural resources for future generations.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Good roads and good schools. I will continue to push for more state investment in infrastructure and education.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Calhoun County, at the intersection of I-94 and I-69, is an important hub in the economy of mid-Michigan. I will continue to work with anyone and everyone who shares our collective goal of making the region an attractive place to live and raise a family.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
A well-paying job, with an employer who values workers, is a recipe for success. I will continue to advocate for increased investment in education and targeted economic development.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
Southwest Michigan is a great place to live and raise a family. I’m optimistic, if given another term in the legislature, that we can continue down the path of fixing our roads and bridges and increase state funding for our public schools. A sustained focus on those quality of life issues will attract a talented workforce to ensure our success.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
As an elected official, I strive to be accessible and transparent. I put in the work to understand important issues and build relationships with sometimes unlikely potential allies.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
DEI and environmental justice are ideals I wholeheartedly support. It doesn’t surprise me that employers who embrace and encourage them also rank as the most successful companies in our region.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I hold office hours on the first Saturday of every month in Battle Creek and Albion where anyone can meet with me directly. I regularly meet constituents and share my personal contact information and encourage anyone to contact my legislative office if there is any chance I or my staff can help.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
As someone who has been elected to a rapid succession of two-year terms, I’ve yet to find time to catch my breath, but at some point I’d like to retire and spoil my granddaughter.
Campaign Song
“Wake Up Everybody” by Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes
Favorite Movie
On the Waterfront
Favorite Book
“Rabbit Run” by John Updike
Favorite Food
Thin crust from Volcano Pizza (Battle Creek)
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 45
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
Working within the largest bureaucracy for over four decades at various positions, locations and grade levels. The office I managed was twice recognized as the best worldwide. Provided the civilian leadership to dispose of the Gulf War Department of Defense excess property and scrap returning over $21M dollars to the U.S. Treasury.
What is your motivation for running for office?
My six grandchildren, the restoration of individual liberty and constitutional government.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Represent and be responsive to the constituents of the 45th District. Rescind and replace Public Act 51. Work to require transparency from members of the legislature. executive branch and judicial branch and provide effective legislative oversight.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
With fellow legislators to craft and pass legislation.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Determine what administrative rules and regulations impede business activities and then work to reduce and eliminate the impediments. Work to establish a skilled trades program at the high school level throughout the state.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
My lifetime of experience. Growing up on a farm, participation in a high school vocational agricultural program, active duty military service in the United States Air Force, private contractor work in Iran, civil service with the Department of the Army and Defense Logistics Agency.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Stop using the word “fight” and replace this with the word “work”.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Treat all individuals equally. Everything else is a word salad.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
Phone and email. I do not participate in social media.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I am retired. My goal is simple: provide the citizens with my best efforts to represent them in Lansing and get government off their backs. If I am effective, then I may attempt a second term if asked.
Campaign Song
Not a serious question
Favorite Movie
Not a serious question
Favorite Book
Not a serious question
Favorite Food
Not a serious question
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 37
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I am a lifelong educator who has taught in preschool with Head Start, in high school and for 35 years at the community college. I have held leadership roles in both state and national professional organizations. I was active in Business and Professional Women’s Club and coordinated a local food pantry for 10 years. I am chair of the Cass County Democratic Party. All of these experiences have informed my views on the role of government in improving the lives of people–ALL of the people–who live in the community.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I am running for office because my personal and work experiences over the years have shown me how many people in our communities struggle to support themselves and their families. We need more programs that provide support for people to succeed, not just subsist. This includes services for mental and physical health, childcare, housing, transportation and education. Our institutions have been neglected–community health departments are great examples. They have been underfunded for years and then when a crisis hits such as COVID, these institutions are not up to the task.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Public education, reproductive healthcare for all, expanding voting rights and defending our democracy.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
I plan to educate myself about the legislative process, talk with constituents and learn from them. Talk to people who will be affected by the laws legislators want to enact. Talk to experts and learn from them. And then follow my true North when it comes to voting.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
I will say flat-out that this is not my area of expertise so I would rely heavily on organizations such as yours. However, I agree that everyone should have a well-paying job, and I support raising the minimum wage (over time); I also support providing structures that allow people to earn and keep well-paying jobs (e.g., education, childcare, health insurance, paid family leave, public transportation, etc.)
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
I hope I can help create a climate and structures for jobs for the future–in wind and solar energy, in not just electric cars and charging stations but in helping people who have nothing but old clunkers to drive that are not reliable in getting them to work, that take up too much of their income to maintain and that pollute the air. What can we do about problems such as these? And what about our solid waste disposal problem? Recycling. We have so many problems that demand creative solutions–that’s what I want to do: help create and support groups that are solving problems and creating jobs that we don’t even exist right now. And I want everyone in our communities–all socio-economic groups and people of color, everyone–to participate and benefit in our growing economy.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
We have to work from our common values, from a common purpose and stop demonizing people with opposing views. Doing this requires more than lip service. It requires the hard work of listening and respecting, even when we disagree. For example, if we can agree that Michigan is a better place to live when everyone earns a living wage, then we have to figure out what that would look like and specifically how we can get there. It might take some incremental steps and some compromise, but it also must take perseverance.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
We have much work to do. I know that just by virtue of my birth, I have a privileged status in our community. I have been in several groups over time where I have had to listen to the hard truths of what white privilege means. I also worked at Southwestern Michigan College, where I know from doing the research that people of color do not succeed at the same rates as whites. Does this mean they are less capable? No! It means that we have had leaders who failed to understand the structures that we can put in place to help people from all groups succeed. I believe in the philosophy of abundance. We do not need to fear that immigrants are taking our jobs or that Blacks are threatening our way of life. Or that “my health insurance will be threatened” if we work to have a plan that ensures everyone in our community has healthcare. I see right in my own city how resources are not divided equally among all sections of the city; that some racial groups are left out and have been for years. We have to start by admitting that there is injustice and understanding it before we can work to restore justice. I have also learned much recently about injustices that continue with the Native American community and how we need to listen and HEAR and be willing to make change.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I plan to hold town halls, canvas neighborhoods and participate in community events. This will require my presence as well as that of my surrogates. As a team, we will have to commit to being in the community.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I really don’t have any. If I am honored to serve a couple of terms in the House, I would retire to continue working for economic and social justice in my community.
Campaign Song
N/A
Favorite Movie
N/A
Favorite Book
N/A
Favorite Food
N/A
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 42
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I grew up in Otsego, Plainwell, Parchment and Cooper Townships. I live in Parchment now, and I have built my career working on health care policy for nonpartisan nonprofit organizations, which has led me to work on legislation in seven different states and the federal government. I’ve testified before legislators, I’ve worked on four bills that have become federal law, and I’m dedicated to getting things done for my community as a legislator.
What is your motivation for running for office?
My father died in 2019 from heart failure with over six figures of medical debt from a previous hospital stay. Because of his debt, he never sought the care he needed. I see his death as a policy failure letting him slip through the cracks. I want to fix failures like that one.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Ensuring good jobs with good pay as opportunities for Southwest Michigan families. Improving health care by lowering underlying costs and expanding coverage options for small businesses and individuals. Investing in our education system to ensure that our public school graduates are equipped for a changing workforce.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
I am willing to work with anyone to achieve these goals. I want to introduce meaningful, evidence-based legislation, listen to my constituents and advocacy groups to ensure the policy makes sense and attempt to garner bi-partisan support.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
My goal is for every business in Southwest Michigan to provide a living wage, good benefits and that all workers have collective bargaining rights. Every worker should be able to sustain themselves without having to work multiple jobs and without worry of whether or not they’ll be able to put food on the table.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
I plan to focus on helping our workforce and our local companies succeed. My election will mean that Southwest Michigan will have a champion for workers in their corner and a strong path toward change.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
First and foremost, lawmakers have to be willing to enact meaningful change, and this change has to be made in the best interest of the people. Our elected officials need to be willing to put people above politics and set aside out-of-state corporate interests to deliver for our communities.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Southwest Michigan should be equitable and inclusive to all people. I plan to take an anti-racist lens to all forms of policy, aiming to negotiate terms and even withhold votes if a policy would harm communities that have been historically marginalized.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I plan to host town halls, send out emails and make phone calls to my constituents and hold meetings with core constituent groups, organizations and local governments. I will spend my constituent work periods meeting with and attending events in our community so I am able to best represent us.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
By stepping into this role, I will be taking a pay cut and shifting from my current career path. I don’t yet know what my long-term goals are in this space, but if I’m successful this fall, I will plan to run for a second term and let my constituents decide if I am the right fit for our community. I believe in making sure our representative government has strong representatives.
Campaign Song
“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore
Favorite Movie
Star Wars: A New Hope – this always brings me back to watching the re-release of these films in the 90s at M-89 Cinema with my dad.
Favorite Book
“Mountains Beyond Mountains” by Tracy Kidder. It’s a reminder of what is possible when you focus on the people.
Favorite Food
Ramen – not the packet kind, but the full Japanese noodle kind. I even have a ramen tattoo!
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 40
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I am the current State Representative for District 61. I serve as an Assistant Democratic Whip and on the Health Policy and Energy Committees. I am a former Kalamazoo County Commissioner (2019-2020) during which time I served as liaison to the Kalamazoo County Land Bank and on the South Central Planning Council. I am a licensed attorney.
What is your motivation for running for office?
Michigan should be a place where a quality public education is valued, our water is protected and safe to drink, our infrastructure is maintained at a level that invites business investment and good paying job opportunities abound. Our state government plays a very large role in each of these areas, and I wanted to bring a voice to the PEOPLE OF THE 61ST to Lansing.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Ensuring public education is appropriately funded, providing accessible mental health care, creating a business environment that provides good paying jobs and protecting our water resources.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
We must make public education a priority every year, even when we do not have record revenues. Thirty years of disinvestment have led to a stark decline in Michigan’s student achievement; we must reverse this trend. Mental health care accessibility requires expanding programs that bring providers to the field on as large of a scale as we can manage. We have many bills that have been introduced that would protect our water; we simply need to move them through the process.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Programs such as the SOAR Fund create opportunities for government to support large projects in the state that can create jobs. We also have programs for small businesses to access loans to expand their businesses. Programs like Futures for Frontliners and Project Reconnect have offered thousands of workers in Michigan additional education to further their careers.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
If elected, the region’s workforce and companies have a representative that believes the state government should be investing in the resources that inspire business investment and good paying jobs. State investment in public education, infrastructure and clean water means businesses have reliable amenities they need and workers have a safe place to call home.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Elected officials must build relationships with one another to try to gain a basic understanding of their colleagues’ background, goals and motivations. When we have a better understanding of each other as people, we can build on that relationship to problem solve collectively and further progress for the people of our state.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
We have a diverse community and acknowledging that work must be done on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice lifts the whole community. It is a fact that our institutions were built to exclude opportunity for people of color, whether it was housing in the form of redlining, underinvesting in urban schools or healthcare. We must continue the work this community has started to repair the damage sustained by many generations of people.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I will continue to offer opportunities to connect each month, either by coffee and/or cocktail hours as well as Zoom meetings; I have been holding 1-2 constituent hours per month. Our office works to be very responsive to constituent inquiries whether by phone or email, and we will continue that work as well. I am happy to meet with constituents in person, in-district or in Lansing as requested. Finally, I attend as many in-district events as my schedule allows to engage with as many different constituent groups as possible.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
My long-term career goal is to continue serving our community in some way, whether it’s in an elected office or in some other capacity.
Campaign Song
“Hold the Line” by Tom Morello featuring grandson
Favorite Movie
Wizard of Oz
Favorite Book
“All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr
Favorite Food
Tacos
Affiliation
Democrat
District Position
State Representative, District 41
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I’m a current state representative and have been honored to serve our state as Assistant Democratic Floor Leader. As a healthcare provider for over 20 years, I’ve used my experience to craft legislation that prioritizes our community’s health. I also served eight years on Kalamazoo County’s Board of Commissioners.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I am running for re-election to continue the work I started: fighting for improved access to healthcare, protecting our environment and strengthening our infrastructure. As a practicing physical therapist, my patients inspire me to continue to advocate for better policies to improve the health and well-being of our community.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
My top priorities are improved access to affordable healthcare (including reproductive and mental health), environmental protection and strengthening our infrastructure. We also need a legislative fix to protect human rights (including expanding Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act) and an environment that is welcoming and supportive of our Veterans.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
This term, I introduced three bills that passed the House, one which became PA164. These successes were built on a team effort, collaboration with stakeholders and building relationships across the aisle. Ive introduced numerous public health and environmental bills and co-sponsored many others.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
I’ll continue to support policies that make Michigan a welcoming, competitive state for businesses. I’ll fight for increased education funding for K-12 public schools, community colleges and universities. I’m also interested in creative placemaking that fosters cool places to work, live and play with plenty of parks and green spaces.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
As the only healthcare provider in my race, (and only one of a handful serving in the legislature), I’m uniquely positioned to represent the needs of our community. I have a proven record of working collaboratively to support businesses and foster growth in our region.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
Building relationships that foster respect and good communication is key. Just like our families, we legislators don’t get to choose with whom we serve. We don’t all have to agree on everything, but we need to be able to work together to advance priorities that improve our region.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Many inequities exist, including access to affordable healthcare, safe drinking water or housing. I’ve championed education and policies aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Decades of redlining has underscored the importance of utilizing an equity lens when assessing government policies. I serve on House Democrats’ Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Planning Committee.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
Last year, my team and I knocked on 10,000 doors to listen to residents. I hold monthly coffee hours (third Fridays). We send out regular monthly e-news with legislative updates. I attend many community events, including neighborhood association meetings. Our 60th District Service Office, located in Kalamazoo, serves residents locally.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I hope to help as many people as I can by advancing equitable policies that improve the lives of Michiganders.
Campaign Song
“The Times Are a-Changin'” by Bob Dylan
Favorite Movie
Tie between Love Actually and E.T.
Favorite Book
“Art of War” by Sun Tzu
Favorite Food
Only one?! Breakfast Tacos!
Affiliation
Republican
District Position
State Representative, District 40
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I have worked in many sales and marketing positions throughout my career. My husband and I own an employee benefits business in Portage. The last few years I have been a stay-at-home mother to our two teenagers and that has probably prepared me the most. I am also currently the vice-chair of the Kalamazoo Republican Party (KGOP).
What is your motivation for running for office?
My motivation for running for office has been watching my children, other children, community members and local businesses suffer throughout the pandemic. We need to have better measures in place to ensure that we never go through those types of shutdowns again. Our children are our future and they deserve better.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Education is my top priority. With the latest round of standardized test scores released in Michigan, we can see that we have a lot of work to do. Fifty percent of third graders are not proficient in reading. The graduation rate at KPS is seventy percent. I could go on and on, but we must do better by the children of the state and Kalamazoo county. Neighborhood safety and security is also important to me as well as restoring public trust.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
I will strive to get on the Education committee. I will also maintain a good working relationship with my fellow House members. Lastly, I will meet with my constituents and leaders of the community to determine what they feel is most needed locally. We all must work together to achieve what is best for our community.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
Education is the key for success. Not everyone is cut out for college. We need to promote trade schools. I believe that we need to foster the relationships between Western Michigan University and many of the companies in Kalamazoo county. We have a worker/employee shortage. A lot of our younger population are leaving the area after high school and college graduation. We need to work on retaining and attracting them to stay in Kalamazoo.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
I believe that we need to look at meaningful broad based tax cuts for small businesses and individuals without creating new taxes and fees. We need to make it easier for businesses to actually do business in Michigan. If we can achieve that, then businesses should be able to offer more competitive salaries as well as bi uses and incentives to attract new workers.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
If we prioritize our communities and their best interests, then elected officials should be able to create a place where it is easy to work together towards meaningful progress. We need to be able to sit down and find common ground. Even when we are on different political sides, when working for the common good of our community, we should be able to find a middle working point.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces and communities create vibrancy and engagement. It is important to achieve a combination of all of these things. Environmental justice is not something that I have heard much about or researched. I would welcome any feedback on this topic.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I plan to hold monthly coffees within my district and will also attend all appropriate community events. Communicating one-on-one with constituents is very important. I have met so many wonderful people and heard so many incredible and heart-breaking stories while door knocking in the district.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I do not have any long-term political goals. If elected, I plan to run for re-election. There is honestly so much work to be done and two to four years is clearly not enough. I will let you know after November 8.😊
Campaign Song
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Favorite Movie
Top Gun
Favorite Book
No response
Favorite Food
Homemade chicken noodle soup, and I make the best!
Affiliation
Republican
District Position
State Representative, District 39
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I’ve had the privilege of serving for the past three and a half years as the voice of my community as their state representative. Nothing prepares you for this job more than actually doing it, but prior to my first election, I was the assistant deputy clerk of Bainbridge Township, the programs director at North Berrien Historical Museum, product brand manager for Coloma Frozen Foods, and I grew up working on my family farm.
What is your motivation for running for office?
I’m running for office because I want to serve my community and ensure the people of Southwest Michigan have a strong voice in the room while decisions are made. I believe I’m the best person for the job and have a proven record of delivering meaningful results and solving problems.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
As the chairwoman of the House Commerce Committee, my top priority is helping Southwest Michigan small businesses and the residents of our community they employ fully recover from the pandemic and forced shutdown orders. Additionally, I want to focus on creating an economic environment where our local small businesses can grow and thrive free of excessive regulations. As a member of a fourth generation farming family, I know how important access to broadband is for a community as rural as Michigan’s new 39th District. Ensuring that our residents have access to broadband as well as helping our local farmers compete in a global market will also be top priorities for me. Finally, I’m focused on fighting inflation by providing permanent tax cuts and putting more money back into the pockets of Southwest Michigan residents.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
The job of a state representative is to listen to their constituents and serve as their voice in Lansing. I plan on accomplishing these goals by remaining accessible to the people who elect me, drafting legislation to address their concerns, then using my experience and the relationships I’ve built to move their bills throughout the legislative process. Passing out of committee, both legislative chambers and finally getting signed into law by the governor.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
I have a proven record of taking action to create an environment for job growth in our state. I’ve been a strong supporter of initiatives such as Michigan Reconnect, Going PRO and Jobs for Michigan Graduates. These initiatives help train our workforce while also connecting our residents with in-demand and high paying jobs.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
My re-election will tell Southwest Michigan job creators that they will continue to have a strong advocate and ally in the Michigan House. As the chair of the Commerce Committee, I’ve built a strong working relationship with job creators from all across our state and am looking forward to continue working with them to create an environment where they can grow and succeed.
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
It’s a choice each elected individual can and needs to make, and I don’t’ think it’s a hard one. You can stand up for your principles while still working across the aisle to deliver for the people of your community.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
I believe in opportunity for all and favoritism to none.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I pride myself in being very accessible to the people I serve. If you call my office, my staff is more than happy to schedule meetings either virtually or in person – whatever works for the caller. I’m also frequently found at community events, local coffee shops and restaurants supporting our small businesses.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
I’m a public servant, not a politician. When I ran for office, I ran because I wanted to serve the community in which I grew up, went to school and go to church. My immediate focus is using the time I’ve been given to serve to make life better for the residents of Southwest Michigan. My long-term goals are to continue giving back to the community that has given so much to me.
Campaign Song
“Dancing in the Moonlight” by King Harvest
Favorite Movie
Little Giants
Favorite Book
“Outlander” by Diana Gabaldon
Favorite Food
Any kind of cheese
Affiliation
Republican
District Position
State Representative, District 38
What community/professional experiences do you possess that have prepared you for this position?
I earned an accounting undergrad degree along with a CPA in 1986. I earned a master’s degree in taxation shortly thereafter. I worked approximately 110 hour weeks for about 11 years after I graduated in 1986. Five of those years I was a tax director of a $500 Million manufacturer that operated in all 50 states and 33 countries. I earned that job when I was only 26. In 1997, I started a small tax practice. In 1999, I started a financial investment firm and shortly thereafter I started Whiteford Properties, Inc. I have helped thousands of businesses over the years navigate the various issues to become successful. I am very involved in the local community charities and groups.
What is your motivation for running for office?
We need someone with experience to make sure that the future of our kids and grandkids would want to stay and flourish in the State of Michigan. The 38th District is loaded with small businesses from the Michigan/Indiana border up through Saugatuck Township, something I indicated I have specialized in, since 1986.
Please list your top priorities within the responsibilities of this elected office.
Make sure that the environment exists to maintain and locate small businesses in Southwest Michigan and the business environment is always welcoming and well maintained; make sure that the income tax that individuals in the State of Michigan is adjusted downward for upward unexpected revenue streams that occur from time to time (such as gaming taxes and marijuana taxes); that the vulnerable population in our communities, such as children and the elderly are well protected.
How do you plan to accomplish these goals within the responsibilities and restrictions of the office?
Chair Tax Policy. Get very involved in my first term somewhere in appropriations. Stay in touch with the various law enforcement departments throughout my district.
At Southwest Michigan First, we believe “the greatest force for change is a well-paying job.” If elected, what steps do you plan to take to increase job growth and workforce development?
I plan to bring jobs and business to Southwest Michigan like no other representative in the past. I believe that job growth solves all kinds of current issues that are discussed. I want to maintain and grow business in this district as my top priority! This is why I was endorsed by the Michigan Chamber of Commerce as well as the Detroit Chamber of Commerce.
How will your election impact the region’s workforce and companies who call Southwest Michigan home?
Dramatically in a very positive way!
How can elected officials create a place where working together toward meaningful progress is the priority?
I have proven in the past 36 years that I can work with both sides of politics in order to succeed. We need to drown out any noise, whether from the far left or far right to distract us from the goals of getting to real solutions for the people of this District.
What are your thoughts on diversity, equity, inclusion and environmental justice issues in your district?
Everyone should be created equally. Anyone who can and wants to assist to achieve a positive outcome should be included in the equation.
In what ways do you plan to connect with constituents to receive their input?
I will be in and out of all my communities throughout the district. I have already been doing this for decades, so this will be very easy to me.
What are your long-term political/career goals?
NONE – There should be none for any politician. We should have aspirations to fill the job we are in and arrive and solve problems that create LONG-TERM solutions.
Campaign Song
“Come Together” by The Beetles
Favorite Movie
Groundhog Day
Favorite Book
Any book that covers the Civil War era. I love reading about Lincoln and Grant. We should understand our history.
Favorite Food
A good meat loaf – A bunch of ingredients put together to make a masterpiece. Everyone has their own recipe.
