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State House candidates run the gamut on experience – Macomb Daily

State House candidates run the gamut on experience – Macomb Daily

Who among the Democrat candidates will be chosen to defend control of the state House for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer? What Republicans will be challenging that majority? These are among the questions that lie at the center of what is likely to be one of the biggest battles fought on Aug. 6.

All 110 seats are up for grabs.

Both parties have incumbents with experience and some who are just getting started.

Among the incumbents hoping to carry on in the House are Nate Shannon, D-Sterling Heights and Denise Mentzer, D-Mount Clemens. They will face their challengers in November, whereas Mai Xiong, a Warren Democrat, elected in April to fill a partial term, is facing two challengers in August vying to represent their party in the race for the heavily Democratic 13th district.

Now that Michigan’s term limit law doubles the number of terms lawmakers in the Michigan House of Representatives can serve from three two-year terms to six, some former lawmakers are looking to make a comeback. Among those hoping to return to the Capitol is Richard Steenland, D-Roseville. Steenland and Democrat Patricia Johnson Singleton are among those challenging Xiong in the 13th district race.

Those elected to the state House will serve a two-year term with a compensation of approximately $71,685 a year.

In advance of the August primary candidates The Macomb Daily asked a few questions pertaining to current topics being discussed among voters in districts where there is a challenge.

Q1: What do you believe is the most important issue facing Michiganders right now and how do you plan to address it if elected?

Q2: Michigan has thousands of job openings in everything from health care and education to hospitality and manufacturing. What do you see as a solution to attracting talent and maintaining a workforce in Michigan?

Here are the replies for each candidate representing areas of Macomb County:

12th District

Democrat Patrick S. Biange

Biange, 57, of St. Clair Shores has a psychology degree from Oakland University and an associate’s degree in mathematics and science from Macomb Community College. He served in the United States Army (2001-2009) and is currently working as a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and (USDA) agriculture specialist. Other work experience includes serving as a case worker and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) engineering technician.

A1: Michigan’s most important issue is the state economy. Our current economy has limited socioeconomic growth. A wedged economy lacks a diverse set of social co-operatives, nonprofits and investor enterprises. It also lacks sufficient eco-technology, training and careers. We need to advance our financial economy by developing a sustainable ecosystem and recalibrating a wider and more values-driven social system. I’ll work to create legislation that builds a strong socioeconomic and ecological Michigan.

A2: Prospective employees will seek states with meaningful workplace opportunities. I’d like to review education and training proposals and amendments. I plan on drafting pro-workforce bills and influencing legislation. I aim to critique bills and make improvements to our socioeconomic trajectory. I will develop a spirited economy and infuse more vibrancy into our communities. I plan to create employment opportunities and sociocultural amenities for everyone. I’ll provide a better quality of life for everyone.

Democrat Kimberly Edwards (incumbent)

Edwards ran for office to fight for equity and opportunity for all Michiganders. Edwards lives in Eastpointe and graduated from St Martin de Porres High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Bennett College (Greensboro, NC). and masters degree from Walden University. She returned to the Detroit area for various social work positions and to serve as a community advocate. She has been a groundbreaker throughout her career including becoming the first Black woman to serve as state Representative for the 13th district.She’s also known as a fierce advocate for women and girls, supporting legislation to end child marriage in Michigan and codify rights for affordable health care.

A1: There’s a few issues: lack of infrastructure, lack of resources and equitable wages. As an elected official and former social worker, I will continue to work on and support legislation that improves the lives of all Michiganders.

A2: There’s eight strategies that Michigan could possibly consider as viable options to increasing population. Here’s five that we should consider: Create a safe and diverse community, employers can set a realistic wage, continue to offer flexible work from home options, introduce legislation that supports paid family leave, prioritize affordable mental and physical health services and make cost of living more attractive.

Also running is Democrat Angela McIntosh who did not respond.

13th District

Democrat Patricia Johnson Singleton

Singleton, who earned her bachelor of arts degree in public service administration from Siena Heights University is a lifelong Michigander, who has lived in Macomb County for close to five years. She served on the Detroit Board of Education (2014-2016), as an income tax investigator for the City of Detroit, as a substitute teacher in Roseville and as an election inspector for more than 30 years.

A1: Inflation overwhelms Michiganders. I will draft proposals to offer reimbursements to every citizen to offset the rising cost of living. I applaud our governor’s approval of the $400 auto insurance refund checks. Hundreds of citizens possess dual college degrees but qualify for food stamps. Corporations paying their taxes would help.

A2: Prioritize correcting the multibillion dollar underfunded pension program is paramount. While substitute teaching I ask high school students if they will stay in Michigan after graduation. They responded they want to retire in a state that has a surplus in the pension fund.

Democrat Richard Steenland

Steenland, 62, and longtime Roseville resident is among the candidates with previous political experience. He served as state Representative for 22nd district (2021-2022), Roseville City Clerk (2007-2020), Roseville City Council (1993-2007) and Roseville Mayor Pro Tem (2005-2007). A graduate of Roseville Brablec High School and Macomb Community College (associate’s degree), Steendland went on to complete his education at Oakland University. He has also worked as a judicial aide for the Macomb County Juvenile Court, Friend of the Court and court administrator’s office and in tax collection for the Macomb County Treasurer. He has served as an alternate union steward for UAW Local 889 and is currently employed as a rental inspector for the City of Roseville. His top priority is the economy and jobs.

A1: As the only candidate with a proven track record of bipartisanship during my first term in the Michigan House, I will work to bring good paying jobs to Macomb County and support economic investments in our communities. We must do a better job incentivizing business development by working with advanced manufacturing/defense sectors to Make Macomb Their Home. We must invest in public education and expand workforce training programs to prepare our residents to succeed.

A2: As a father of three, I see the challenges of keeping our youth here. We need to incentivize communities to create a more walkable and livable space where families can enjoy enhanced leisure and recreational opportunities.  We need to create an affordable education system that allows individuals to be innovative and prepared to meet future demands. We need to expand childcare and collaborate with businesses/colleges to spur economic investment in sectors of demand.

Democrat Mai Xiong (incumbent)

Xiong of Warren and a small business in Macomb County for more than 20 years served on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners (2021-2024) before winning the special election for the 13th District. Her educational background includes a bachelor of fine arts degree from the College for Creative Studies, a Taubman Fellowship at Harvard Kennedy School and is an alumni of Michigan State University’s Michigan Political Leadership Program.

A1: As a parent with four children in our public schools, I’m deeply invested in our future generation and understand the challenges our community faces, such as encountering rising prices at the grocery store, and the need for increased mental health support and school safety. I will work to lower costs for families, invest in our teachers and classrooms, expand services for seniors, fight for clean air and water, and fully fund police and fire services.

A2: As a small business owner, I understand firsthand the need to attract and retain a talented workforce. We must invest more in education and training programs. By focusing on growing a talented and educated workforce, we can help our Michigan businesses to be successful. Having affordable housing and robust public transportation will also make our state more appealing. Collaboration between businesses, educational institutions, and government is key to creating a sustainable and skilled workforce.

Republican Jerrie Bowl Bilello

Bilello was born in Mount Clemens but grew up in Roseville, where he has been a resident for more than 40 years. A graduate of Roseville High School, Bilello attended a computer school in 1990 and went on to study Customized Business Insurance (CBI). His job experience includes restaurants, ophthalmology, nursing homes, medical billing and insurance work. He is also a Precinct Delegate for Precinct 8.

A1: The children are our biggest concern because this is how you destroy a nation. The indoctrination that is happening not just in Michigan but around our nation is frightening. I would like, if elected, to be put on the education committee because there the indoctrination would stop.

A2: Our founding fathers believed in some kind of welfare, however the welfare being given is hindering our workforce and economy. We need to fix our systems to provide not only welfare but opportunities to the less fortunate people of Michigan.

Republican Mark T. Foster

Foster, who started his own real estate business more than 35 years ago has lived in St. Clair Shores his entire life. He aims to bring conservative values and effective solutions to his community and as a state Representative will focus on several key points to ensure a brighter future for Michigan.

A1: At the core of his agenda for office are economic growth and job creation. I believe in the power of free enterprise and will work to reduce taxes and eliminate unnecessary regulations that stifle business growth.

A2: I will deregulate as much as possible. By fostering a pro-business environment we can attract new industries, support small businesses and create more job opportunities. Promoting economic freedom and entrepreneurship will help reduce economic inequality and provide better opportunities for all.

Republican Ronald Singer

Singer has no prior political experience but has lived in Macomb County for more than 45 years. He is a resident of Warren and works in mechanical and electrical engineering at Dominion Technologies Group in Roseville.

A1: There are so many it’s hard to choose. Some issues cause other issues. For example, spending. Prior to Whitmer the last state budget was $54 billion and there was a surplus. The current budget is $82 billion and it will require tax increases everywhere. The spending increases require proportional tax increases on individuals and businesses and that works to make Michigan less competitive, which makes all of us less prosperous.

A2: We need lower spending and lower taxes to make the state more attractive to investors and individuals.

Republican John Sheets did not respond.

14th District

Democrat James R. Fouts

Fouts started his career as a high school government and psychology teacher before being elected the Mayor of Warren, where he served from 2007 to 2023. He still holds the record for most years as mayor and for receiving over 80% of the vote in two out of four elections. As mayor he returned calls every night until 10 p.m. and made himself available 24/7 for calls. He also served on Warren city council.

A1: Inflation is too high; the cost of groceries, gas, and rent are too high. I will not vote for any tax increases when inflation is high. We are in a mental health crisis and need funding for more facilities and programs. There needs to be more local control over grow houses, fireworks, and Airbnb’s; I will push for local control. We need funding to address old infrastructure; relieve basement flooding, power outages, sewers and neighborhood roads.

A2: More funding for skilled trades and investing in the future of our youth. When I was mayor I hosted several college and skilled trades fairs. We need incentives for talent to stay/come here and should have competitive wages and work to strengthen unions. We should provide incentives for first time home buyers, and for building homes at an affordable cost. Apartments should have rent control or the owner gets no corporate tax write offs.

Democrat Mike McFall

A native Michigander, McFall grew up in a proud United Auto Worker (UAW) household near Flint. He earned his bachelor’s degree in community development and public administration from Central Michigan University. He has lived in Hazel Park for seven years where he served as the city’s Mayor Pro Tem and spent much of his career working in the nonprofit sector, serving others while making a positive impact. He is currently serving in the state House, representing the 8th District, and seeking re-election for this position now part of the 14th district.

A1: The most important issue facing Michiganders right now is inflation, from medications to housing, it’s hitting everyone hard. If I’m re-elected I will continue to work to do what I can to lower the costs of  everyday necessities like prescription drugs. I’m currently working on a bill (HB 5338) that will make  sure pharmaceutical rebates benefit you-the-customer and are no longer used by insurance companies  and pharmacies to increase their profits.

A2:I will continue working to attract and retain talent here in Michigan. We already know that young  people prioritize quality of life when looking for places to live and work, like housing they can afford,  reliable public transit, and low cost of living. Investments in public transit and affordable housing spur  economic development and attract and retain a talented workforce. If we pass my “Make it in Michigan  Fund” legislation, it will do just that.

57th District

Democrat Aisha Farooqi

Farooqi, 40, of Sterling Heights has been living in Michigan since she was nine. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan Dearborn and a law degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law. As a public service attorney, Farooqi operated her own private practice and is currently serving as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Wayne County.

A1: My top issues are: protecting our democracy, so we must keep the democratic process open and fair, easy to vote and hard to cheat; education, which requires us to properly fund public education with attention on teacher salaries, student programs and critical support services; the cost of living, requiring policies that boost people’s spending power; and access to health care and reduced excessive costs without compromising quality of care.

A2: People want to live where they can find good jobs, favorable quality of life and a clean, healthy environment. I support economic development policies that bolster existing and developing businesses, in addition to education and job training programs that put our young residents in a position to find good paying jobs and own their own homes. We must also protect our natural resources, especially the Great Lakes, which are critical to our quality of life.”

Democrat Tyler Fox

A graduate of Lake Orion High School, Fox, 28, earned his masters degree in public administration from Oakland University and is currently working for the City of Sterling Heights as a purchasing coordinator. He’s lived in Troy for the past five years and serves on the city’s planning commission and zoning board of appeals.

A1: I believe the rising costs of everything from housing to healthcare has prevented young people and older citizens from entering and staying in the middle class. We need to work to lower the costs of essentials, and in Lansing I will work to address housing, healthcare, childcare, and energy costs. I will do this by ensuring missing middle housing is built, supporting childcare providers, reigning in DTE, and eliminating rising medical debt.

A2: We must turn Michigan into a state that folks can thrive in. We can attract talent by ensuring there is housing they can afford, and by working to make cities walkable and desirable for folks. We can also work to support families by addressing childcare costs and making sure that our education system is thoroughly funded. We need to reverse decades of disinvestment in our schools, sidewalks, and downtown areas to reinvigorate our economy.

Democrat Douglas Waggener

Waggener, 70, is a retired IBEW Local 58 electrician, who has lived in Troy for 36 years. Besides having his master electrician license, he has a BSEE (’90 LTU), certificate in construction management (’14 OCC), and has taken many courses to obtain training in solar voltaics, heat pumps and lighting among others. ,

A1: The most important issue facing Michigan right now is education. I have addressed this extensively on my website thevoiceofthemiddleclass.com. Albert Einstein is credited with saying “the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over again and expecting different results.” From day one, the student should be taught that one of the best things to know is how to teach yourself. The world is not going to change for you.

A2: The first thing that needs to be done is to gather data on what it is that young people would like to do or see that would make them want to not only come here but stay here as well. Somehow, we need to engage more people into the planning process. The hiring process itself could use an overhaul. How about out of work lists of qualified people instead of resumes, and graced hiring periods?

58th District

Republican Roger Goodrich

Goodrich, 63, has been working in the manufacturing industry for the past 41 years. He graduated with honors from Valparaiso University with a degree in mechanical engineering in 1983 after completing two years of machine shop training in high school, where he earned the New York Machine Shop Competition in 1978 and 1979. He has been a resident of Sterling Heights for 29 years and a precinct delegate for 6 years.

A1: Poor leadership is the most important issue (problem) facing Michiganders right now. What accomplishments do the Democrats have to run on in the November election? When elected, myself, and other newly-elected Republicans, will take back the majority in Lansing. We will focus on deporting illegal immigrants, lowering crime, lowering inflation, lowering taxes, energy independence, school choice, the drug epidemic, election integrity and fixing infrastructure. Respect for our flag and our veterans will be prioritized.

A2: The premise of this question suggests Michigan’s economy is strong and robust. This is a false premise. If it were true, Michigan’s population would be growing. Instead, it is shrinking. To attract talent and maintain a healthy workforce, taxes and regulations need to be cut. Michigan’s ranking in education is currently near the worst in the country. This has to be turned around. The previous president showed us how to create a robust economy and grow personal income. Follow that example and Michigan will prosper.

Republican Ron Robinson did not respond.

59th District

Republican Douglas Wozniak (incumbent)

Wozniak of Shelby Township has a bachelor’s degree in mathematics from the University of Michigan, a Juris Doctorate from Michigan State University School of Law and is currently serving in the Michigan House of Representatives. He has also served as a state Senator and Shelby Township trustee. A business owner for more than 30 years, Wozniak has also held a number of appointed positions on township boards and committees.

A1: Much like in our personal lives, there are many important issues facing Michigan. My roles on the Judiciary; Ethics and Oversight; Families, Children and Seniors; and Labor committees tend to serve as the focus of my legislative efforts at present. However, I also intend to continue to work with my colleagues throughout the chamber to reduce income taxes for Michigan’s taxpayers, as that is a significant driver for those seeking to keep or relocate their families and businesses here.

A2: People make the decision of where to live, work, raise families, and retire on a good many factors that are personal to each of us, however, I believe that working to make Michigan a place where residents feel they can do these things in relative safety (from crime and crumbling infrastructure), while maintaining a balance between work and life, keeping more of what they earn and deciding how best to spend it for themselves, are universal.

Republican Jean Zott

Zott, 60, of Shelby Township earned her bachelor of science degree from Central Michigan University and started her career as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) at  Joe Randazzo’s Fruit and Vegetable Inc. As the company’s CPA and controller, for more than 30 years, Zott was responsible for all financial reporting, tax return preparation for the corporation, related entities and shareholders, and federal, state, and local government compliance. As a candidate for state House, she believes that reckless spending is the state’s biggest issue and if elected will work to eliminate wasteful spending.

A1: The $83 billion budget is filled with wasteful spending, pet projects, duplicate departments and antiquated programs.  It is unstainable.  Michigan’s corporate welfare is out of control and has been ineffective. No other state has this type of program. Saving taxpayer dollars is necessary to properly fund Michigan’s priorities without raising taxes.

A2: The purpose of funding higher education is to prepare our students for the workforce.  Our colleges, universities and trade schools need to take a more active role in job placement.

61st District

Republican Russ Cleary

Cleary, 23, is a Sterling Heights resident who earned his bachelor’s degree in political science from Michigan State University and hit the road running. His work experience includes being the regional field Director for the Michigan Republican Party and political director for the Rep. John James’ congressional campaign. He is currently employed through the U.S. House of Representatives, working as a caseworker for Congressman James.

A1: I believe the most important issues facing Michiganders are inflation, education issues, an increase in crime, and crumbling infrastructure. If elected to the State House, I plan to be a fighter and a defender for my constituents in the 61st district and take their concerns to Lansing. We need a Representative who can take the priorities of our district to Lansing and work with the legislature to find solutions and deliver results.

A2: We must make Michigan a destination state rather than a departure state. A combination of incredibly high housing costs, unaffordability, and overall bad policies have rendered Michigan a state non-friendly to new businesses and new talent. With investment into education and pro-business policies, we will be able to attract talent and maintain a workforce in Michigan. This will return Michigan to being a destination state for generations to come.

Republican John Grossenbacher

Grossenbacher, 43, is a lifelong resident of Southeast Michigan, most recently a resident of Clinton Township. He earned associate degrees in liberal arts and applied sciences from Oakland Community College. While he has no prior political experience, he has led committees for nonprofits and worked in Information Technology for more than a decade before launching his own IT consulting firm two years ago.

A1: The most important issue facing Michiganders is inflation. Prices are not going down, and wages won’t keep up. At the state level, we can address this by getting spending under control and providing tax relief where possible, with no new taxes. Additionally, I want to make it easier for regular people to run for office and limit Political Action Committees (PAC) control over elections. Most issues, including our ridiculous spending, stem from PAC influence. I believe non-politicians can bring this under control.

A2: To tackle Michigan’s job openings in healthcare, education, hospitality, and manufacturing, we should focus on enhancing vocational training tailored to industry needs. Strengthening partnerships between businesses and educational institutions for practical skill development is crucial. Additionally, creating a tax-friendly environment that supports small businesses will help attract and retain a skilled workforce, fostering economic growth across the state.

Republican Robert Wojtowicz did not respond.

63rd District

Republican Jay DeBoyer (incumbent)

DeBoyer, 54, graduated from Algonac High School in 1988 and attended St. Clair Community College from 1989 to 1990. He has lived in Algonac his entire life. Before entering office, he spent 11 years working as clerk and register of deeds for St. Clair County. He also served as Clay Township’s trustee and supervisor. He has been a small business owner in the area, specializing in engineered lumber since 1994.

A1: Michiganders are struggling with a sluggish economy due to government policies. If re-elected, I will cut taxes and fight for deregulation to support businesses and let taxpayers  keep more of their earnings. I’ll also focus taxpayer dollars on the core government functions:  infrastructure, public safety, and education improvement.

A2: States with population growth over the last decade share low taxes and pro-business policies.  We need these policies in Michigan to overcome stagnation and thrive. Redirecting tax dollars  from social engineering projects or special interests to maintain roads, good schools, and public  safety will make our state more attractive to residents.

Republican Mike Zoran did not respond.

66th District

Josh Schriver (incumbent)

Schriver, 32, has lived in the Oxford area since 2020.  Prior to serving the 66th district in Lansing, he worked as a field organizer for the Michigan Republican Party. He is a board certified behavioral analyst who helps special needs children and has served as a Precinct Delegate since 2018.

A1: We need to improve public trust in our government.  Currently, Michigan is one of two states that do not require the governor’s office to comply with public record requests.  It’s time to change that.  In addition, I support prohibiting taxpayer-funded lobbying, giving lawmakers three business days to review bills beforehand, paying down pension debt, fully funding school safety initiatives, and ensuring full transparency on where your tax dollars go.

A2: We need to lower the overall tax burden. I support reducing the personal income tax from 4.25 to 3.9% and eliminating unnecessary fees to access public services. It’s time to ensure road repairs are fully funded, by eliminating wasteful government spending. Another major problem facing our state is too much government overreach.  Our state should only operate under the core government functions as defined by the Constitution. Nothing more.

Randy LeVasseur

LeVasseur, 36, and a University of Michigan Law School graduate has been an attorney for nearly 36 years. Years ago he started a successful real estate law firm and also owns a business that helps Michigan homeowners reduce their property taxes. He is a resident of Oxford Township and served three years on Royal Oak’s city commission.

A1: Out-of-control inflation and the economy are the biggest concerns for Michiganders right now. While these are primarily national issues, Michigan officials can and should help by adopting policies that reduce insurance and energy costs, cut burdensome regulations, and lower taxes. These measures will enable hard-working Michigan residents to keep more money in their own pockets, ease their financial struggles, and create an economic environment where people and businesses alike can thrive.

A2: To attract and maintain a workforce in Michigan, we must cut unnecessary regulations and lower barriers for entering professions or starting businesses. By fostering a business-friendly environment and simplifying the regulatory landscape, we can spur entrepreneurship, job creation, and economic growth. Allowing people to keep more of their money will provide incentives for innovation and make Michigan a more attractive place to live, work, and thrive.

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