Voters in Talk’s coverage area to choose candidates running in Aug. 2 primary

In the Woodward Talk’s coverage area, voters on Aug. 2 will select candidates at the local, state and federal levels to represent their respective parties in the general election on Nov. 8.

Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim.

Profile forms were not sent to candidates who are running unopposed.

 

Governor of Michigan
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and six candidates, including a write-in candidate, are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The salary for the position is $159,300.

Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Running unopposed.

Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Ryan D. Kelley
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Ralph Rebandt
Age: 64
Occupation: Retired Pastor
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills

For how long: 35 years

Online campaign information: ralphrebandtforgovernor.com

Education: B.R.E., M.A.R., M.Div.

Previously and currently held elected offices: No

Top goals: We are in a social and moral crisis. My goal is to bring back our Jude’s-Christian values, and together with truth, transparency, and accountability: ensure constitutional protections; make Michigan an open record state; secure election integrity; provide school choice; reduce taxes and budget; eliminate corporate welfare and reduce government agencies by involving faith based organization’s; and establish a Citizens Round Table.  

Republican
Kevin Rinke 
Age: 61 
Occupation: Retired 
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Hills 
For how long: Michigan born and raised. I built my home in Oakland County, was raised in 
Wayne County and worked in Macomb County. 
Online campaign information: https://rinkeformichigan.com/ 
Education: Bachelor’s in Advertising with a minor in Statistics from Michigan State University 
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A 
Top goals: As governor, I aim to make Michigan the best state in America. To do so, we must emulate what other successful states have done. I have called for the elimination of the state income tax by January 1, 2024. I want to create an economic climate that incentivizes businesses and workers to come to Michigan. I want to fix our education system, add vocational training to the common curriculum and get Michigan back on track. 



Republican
Garrett Soldano
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
James Craig (Write-in)
Age: 65

Occupation: Served as Chief of Police in Portland, ME; Cincinnati, OH; and Detroit, MI. After eight years as Chief of Police in his hometown of Detroit and 44 years as a dedicated public servant, Craig retired in June 2021. After twenty-eight years with Los Angeles Police Department, the Chief rose through the ranks to Captain Three. 2 1/2 years as a Detroit Police Officer before being laid off.

Municipality of residence: Detroit, Michigan 
For how long: Professional experience 44 years

Online campaign information: www.chiefjamescraig.com

Education: Craig graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1977, Obtained an undergraduate degree from West Coast University BS in Business and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in Public Administration, James Craig, started coursework in a Doctorate program UOP; however, he had to stop the program when appointed Police Chief in the city of Detroit.

Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE.

Top goals: James Craig is running for Governor of Michigan with a commitment to fix leadership in state government and institute an effective administration that fosters a collaborative environment to drive the vibrancy of the state’s economy, education, public safety, and communities. I will work to WIN as a write-in candidate.

 

U.S. House of Representatives District 11
Two candidates are running in the Democratic primary and two candidates are running in the Republican primary to compete for one two-year term in November. U.S. representatives earn a salary of $174,000. 

Democrat
Andy Levin
Age: 61
Occupation: U.S. Representative in Congress
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 16 years
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: BA in Religion from Williams College, MA in Asian Languages and Culture from U of M, JD from Harvard Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected to U.S. Congress in 2018
Top goals: My goals are simple. Our children have a right to grow up on a safe, livable planet. No American should have to choose between seeking health care and feeding themselves. Schools shouldn’t be warzones. Justice matters. Democracy matters. That’s why I came to Congress--for our kids and our communities--and because I steadfastly believe that the American people deserve better. Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work.

Democrat
Haley Stevens
Age: 39
Occupation: Member of Congress, Michigan’s 11th District
Municipality of residence: Waterford
For how long: 1 year
Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com/
Education: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Philosophy, American University. Masters of Arts in Social policy and Philosophy from American University.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Member of Congress, Michigan’s 11th Congressional District. Elected 2018 and re-elected 2020.
Top goals: If I am re-elected my top goal will be to continue delivering for the people of Oakland County. From fighting for a women’s right to choose to ensuring women and girls have access to quality STEM education I will never back down for my constituents. Additionally, some of my most important votes while in Congress have been to address this national epidemic of gun violence which has hit us even here in Oakland County recently.

Republican
Mark Ambrose
Age: 52
Occupation: Regional Investment Manager and Chartered Financial Analyst
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 13 years most recently - also raised in Bloomfield Twp. (addtl. 18 years)
Online campaign information: https://voteambrose.com/
Education: Brother Rice High School, Bloomfield Twp. : 1984-1988; U.S. Military Academy, West Point, B.Sc. in Systems Engineering: 1988-1992; Columbia University, Masters of International Affairs, Russian Studies: 1995-1998; Columbia Business School, Masters of Business Administration, 1996-1998
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My top goals are to fix our broken economy and reverse runaway inflation, to protect our borders and reform our immigration policy, and to keep America safe at home and abroad.

Republican
Matthew DenOtter
Age: 48
Occupation: Sales, Johnson & Johnson
Municipality of residence: Highland
For how long: 7 years in Highland; 2 years in Farmington before that
Online campaign information: www.DenOtterforCongress.com
Education: I’m a graduate of Calvin University with a Degree in Criminal Justice.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None; outsider.
Top goals: I’m a proud conservative Republican. My core beliefs are that we must put our Nation first, that the federal government should not be infringing on our day-to-day lives, that freedom and liberty are essential, and that we must stand for law and order. I want to get rid of Haley Stevens and Andy Levin who do not represent the values of our communities – we need to bring commonsense back to Oakland County.

State Senate District 8
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. State senators earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Marshall Bullock II
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Democrat
Mallory McMorrow
Age: 35
Occupation: State Senator, 13th District
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 7 years
Online campaign information: www.mcmorrowformichigan.com
Education: Notre Dame University, BA in Industrial Design
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently State Senator for the 13th District
Top goals: 1. Protecting our rights and freedoms. I’ve been a fierce defender of our rights against outright lies, hate, and fearmongering. If re-elected I will continue that fight every single day.
2. Creating equitable opportunity for everyone. Metro Detroit and Michigan will only succeed if everyone has access to opportunity. I’ve consistently stood up against budgets and bills that cut funding to our schools, and have pushed for greater investment in our communities.

Republican
Brandon Ronald Simpson
Running unopposed.

State House of Representatives District 5
Five candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.

Democrat
Reggie Reg Davis
Age: 51
Occupation: Retired Radio Broadcaster/Former Wayne County Commissioner Detroit
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 51 years
Online campaign information: ReggieRegDavis.com
Education: Wayne State University (’89 – ’91) Oral Roberts University (’91 –’92) Major: Broadcast Journalism 
Previously and currently held elected offices: Detroit Charter Commissioner – (2009 – 2012), Detroit Deputy District Manager 2014 – 2018), Wayne County Commissioner (208 -2019)
Top goals: I lost my 19-year-old younger brother to gun violence, I am the President of CeaseFire Youth Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving young lives. I am also the author of the “Bullet Bill”, which gained national attention and garnered a unanimous vote of support by Detroit City Council. I am totally prepared to take on the necessary leadership with the anti-gun violence movement in Michigan and I ask for your vote on August 2.

Democrat
Steele P. Hughes
Age: 32
Occupation: Constituent Services Director for State House District 10
Municipality of residence: Wayne County
For how long: 9 years
Online campaign information: www.strongerwithsteele.com
Education: Northwood University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate 
Top goals: My top priorities will be education, specifically focusing on the literacy issues that is quietly attacking our State. Updating our communities underground Infrastructure, Reforming our Juvenile Justice System, improving our crumbling Foster Care system and repealing the Sr. Pention tax are my top goals/priorities once elected. 

Democrat
Ksenia Milstein
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Democrat
Natalie Price
Age: 40
Occupation: Berkley City Councilmember
Municipality of residence: Berkley
For how long: 7 years
Online campaign information: www.votenatalieprice.com
Education: MA, English Studies. University of Exeter (UK) 2006. BA, English and Classics. Vassar College 2004.
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was elected to Berkley City Council in 2019, and I continue to serve in this role.
Top goals: As a progressive democrat, former teacher, city councilmember, and mom, my priorities include:
• Creating inclusive communities and securing them with better gun laws
• Leveling the playing field with equitable education funding models 
• Supporting essential services and infrastructure by boosting municipal funding 
• Fighting for our most basic rights including safe and legal abortion care 
We are all connected, and when we work together to lift up every resident, our whole region benefits. 

Democrat
Michelle Wooddell
Age: 47
Occupation: Associate Professor, Grand Valley State University ; Founder and Principal, The Nonprofit Spot, LLC
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: www.votemichelleformi.com
Education: BA, The University of Michigan; MPA, New York University; PhD, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have never held public office.
Top goals: My goal is to ensure that everyone in our district has the opportunity to pursue their best life. For some, that may mean quality schools that prepare their children for the future. For others, that may mean help building their small business or support to stay in their home as they age. For everyone, I think It means that Michigan’s mental health system is stronger, gun safety measures are adopted and our rights are protected.

Republican
Keith Albertie
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Paul Taros
Age: 65
Occupation: Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 25 years
Online campaign information: TimeForTaros.com
Education: BBA University of Michigan, MBA Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The education of our children is the State’s most important job. We need to get back to teaching our children how to think, not what to think. Our children need a safe learning environment. A refocusing of our efforts to teaching STEM curriculum is needed. Vocational and skilled trades should be added to the high school curriculum. If Michigan is going to compete on the world stage, we need the best educated students.

State House of Representatives District 6
Four candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Danielle C. Hall
Age: 39
Occupation: State of Michigan, MDHHS-Family Independence Specialist, Success Coach
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: life long
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100081860468462
Education: Wayne State University-BS Marketing/Advertising
Bishop Gallagher High School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate, Detroit Michigan
Top goals: I plan to focus on the full representation of District 6 constituents by building a strong relationship with each municipal’s leadership, municipal school boards, and senior homes board of directors. I hope to start a school-based program where student can engage with their legislator and learn the process of introducing laws. I hope to sit on the Appropriations Committee, Education Committee and Family, Children and Seniors Committee which will support my platform and bill introductions.

Democrat
Myya Jones
Candidate could not be reached by press time.

Democrat
Mark Murphy
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Democrat
Regina Weiss
Age: 35
Occupation: State Representative House District 27
Municipality of residence: Oak Park
For how long: 9 years
Online campaign information: www.reginaweissforstaterep.com
Education: BA in History and Secondary Education from Valparaiso University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oak Park City Council, State Representative House District 27
Top goals:
Investing in our schools 
• Full and equitable funding for public schools 
• State dollars to improve school facilities
• Hire more teachers, counselors, and support staff 
Investing in our communities
• Fix local roads and promptly clear snow 
• Ensure affordable housing and water 
• Improve recreation and senior services 
Investing in working families 
• Create good-paying jobs 
• Invest in job training and placement 
• Expand collective bargaining rights and worker protections

Republican
Charles T. Villerot
Running unopposed.

State House of Representatives District 7
Three candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and no candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Melanie Macey
Age: 42
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: www.melaniemacey.com
Education: JD, University of Michigan Law School; MS in Computer Science and Engineering, University of Michigan; BA in Political Science, Haverford College
Previously and currently held elected offices: Royal Oak City Commissioner 2017-Present
Top goals: Lay groundwork for every child to have a successful future. 
Equitably fund schools to pay for resources students need 
Increase teacher pay to retain hardworking teachers and recruit the next wave
Invest in our workforce by raising minimum wage, encouraging unionization, providing paid family leave, and increasing the EITC. 
Protect civil and constitutional rights under attack: abortion rights, voting rights, LGBTQ+ equality
Enact sensible gun regulations
Criminal justice system reform
Create a clean energy economy

Democrat
Grant Rivet
Age: 26
Occupation: Judicial Court Clerk at the Oakland County Circuit Court
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak, Michigan
For how long: less than a year
Online campaign information: grantrivetformi.com
Education: Michigan State University, Bachelor’s degree in Political Science 2018.
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer provided
Top goals: Creating a strong, diverse, and unified district that will advocate for the needs of all residents. My top priorities include investing in education, protecting a woman’s right to her reproductive freedoms, common sense gun reform, and creating a more inclusive society for underrepresented communities. I plan to work across the aisle to create meaningful, effective policy for all of District 7’s constituents. I’m energized and motivated to bring the next generation of leadership to Lansing.

Democrat
Helena Scott
Age: 61 yrs old
Occupation: Michigan State Representative House District 7
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 61 years
Online campaign information: reelecthelenascott.com
Education: High School: Mumford
College: Marygrove College
Major: Psychology & Political Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: When re-elected to HD7 I will continue to be the Democratic voice that my district needs, and the servant leader residents in Wayne and Oakland deserve. My top priorities are to help bridge the Wayne and Oakland County divide and focusing on protecting Pro-Choice and Women’s Health, LGBTQ Equity & Inclusion, Racial & Civil Rights, Education, Affordable Health Care, Improve Economic Development, Strengthen the Economy, Commonsense Gun Control/Reform, The Environment, Improve State and Local Infrastructure.

State House of Representatives District 8
Five candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.  

Democrat
Durrel K. Douglas
Age: 35
Occupation: Community Organizer, Non-Profit Founder
Municipality of residence: Detroit 
For how long: 2 years
Online campaign information: DouglasForMichigan.com
Education: Western Governors University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: - Bring good-paying jobs back to our communities and fight for a livable minimum wage.
- Fight to ensure every Michigan family has access to quality health care, regardless of their economic situation.
- Ensure that all of our children receive the education they need to thrive.
- Finally fix our crumbling roads and infrastructure.
- Work for criminal justice reform to provide real second chances and to lower incarceration rates.

Democrat
Ernest Little
Age: 69
Occupation: Realtor and Mortgage Loan Originator, retired City of Detroit Housing Inspector 
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 69 years
Online campaign information: ernestlittleforstaterep.com 
Education: Wayne State University, Bachelor of Science 
Previously and currently held elected offices: President of Third Precinct Police/Community Relations Council 2018 to present, Democratic Precinct Delegate 171, Member of Coordinating Council for Detroit Empowerment Zone 1995 and Selective Service System Local Board 91 from1983 to 2003 
Top goals: Institute More Measures to Fight Crime And Provide Safe Streets. Increase Programs That Combat Drug Abuse, Provide Early Intervention, And Improve Addiction Recovery. Ensure Access To Early-Childhood Education And Equitably Funded K-12 Schools. Fight For Affordable Healthcare, Housing, And Mental Health Repeal Taxes On Retiree Pensions. Promote Women’s Rights.  

Democrat
Mike McFall
Age: 48
Occupation: Membership Services and Philanthropy Associate for the Williams Syndrome Association
Municipality of residence: Hazel Park
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: www.MikeMcFall.com
Education: Central Michigan University, Bachelor of Science in Community Development and Public Administration
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current Mayor Pro Tem of Hazel Park
Top goals: We must DESTIGMATIZE MENTAL ILLNESS and make care affordable and available when people need help, in times of crisis or routine care. I believe in a woman’s right to make her own reproductive decisions. I will stand up against all attacks on REPRODUCTIVE FREEDOM. I support SMALL BUSINESSES, getting owners the resources they need so that our communities can thrive. I support common sense GUN VIOLENCE PREVENTION measures like background checks and red-flag laws.

Democrat
Ryan Nelson
Age: 44
Occupation: Employment Services Company - Founder and Executive Recruiter
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 2 years
Online campaign information: www.BuildMichiganStrong.com
Education: Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering - The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I have knocked doors everyday in every neighborhood in our new 8th District, and will continue if elected, because I know that we have better ideas and deeper wisdom to solve the tough issues we face than the politically well-connected few in Lansing. Doing democracy everyday, and not politics, will be my goal. I am running to be a problem-solver and tireless advocate for- and to affirm the work, experience, and dignity of- every citizen.

Democrat
David M. Soltis
Age: 55
Occupation: Teacher
Municipality of residence: City of Madison Heights
For how long: 14 years
Online campaign information: soltis.statehousemi@gmail.com
Education: B.A. Oakland University & Masters Public Administration Oakland University
Previously and currently held elected offices: 3rd Term Elected City Councilman Madison Heights
Top goals: I want to continue advocating at the State level for seniors and children including Juvenile Justice as well as school reform. I have seen firsthand that there are inequalities across school districts and staffing ratios are unbalanced. Michigan’s Child Protective Services are in disarray. 2018 Audit General’s Report stated serious violations. Even to current day state’s child welfare system is under federal court oversight. I will bring common sense and sanity to Lansing.
Republican
Robert Noble
Age: 64
Occupation: self employed
Municipality of residence: Madison Heights
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: www.nobleforstaterep.com
Education: pre-law degree from Purdue University Global
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: There are many areas that have importance to me but here are top priorities: RULE OF LAW: Pro Law Enforcement - NEVER defund our 1st responders. SENIORS: Non-taxable pensions. BUSINESS: Less Regulation for small business start-ups. GUN CONTROL: Severe criminal sentencing when a firearm is involved. PEOPLE FIRST: What is best for the district, the state of Michigan and the political party is last. VETERANS: A Hire Veterans first policy with small businesses.

Republican
Attie Pollard
Age: 37
Occupation: Commercial Security
Municipality of residence: Highland Park
For how long: 7 years
Online campaign information: Facebook.com/Attie Pollard for Highland Park City Council District 1 & Michigan State House District 8.
Education: Detroit Northern High School class of 2004 With a high school diploma.
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was in Candidate for the Michigan State House in 2016
Top goals: End to the State Income Tax, Sales Taxing Powers to localities in Michigan, Death Penalty for Murder & Rape Crimes, Legalization of Prostitution, Commission of New Nuclear Power Plants to Reduce Greenhouse Emissions, Education Diversity such as push for homeschooling & charter schools, and ballot reform to pay a fee option to become a candidate for Governor, Senator, US Rep and President.  

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 19
One Democratic candidate and one Republican candidate are running for their party’s nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Charlie Cavell
Running unopposed.

Republican
Joseph C. Pucci
Running unopposed.

Judge of 45th District Court
Three candidates are running for one seat on the 45th District Court. The top two vote-getters in the primary will advance to the general election Nov. 8. The district court judge earns a salary of $158,831.39.

Michelle Friedman Appel
Age: 65
Occupation: 45th District Court Judge
Municipality of residence: Huntington Woods
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: judgemichellefriedmanappel.com
Education: University of Michigan B.A. received 8-21-77, University of Detroit/Mercy Law School J.D. received 12-19-80
Previously and currently held elected offices: 2003-present-45th District Court Judge. District includes cities of Oak Park, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge and the Charter Township of Royal Oak
1999-2002 Served as Oakland County Commissioner
1995-1998 Served as Huntington Woods City Commissioner
Top goals: I have had the privilege of serving as your District Judge for the past twenty years earning a reputation for hard work, careful preparation and treating all who come before me with dignity and respect. I’ve made a positive contribution to the communities I serve and in the lives of those who come to court. My goal in the future is, as it has always been, to seek justice every day I take the bench.

Diana Lynn 
McClain
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Brenda Richard
Age: 61
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Oak Park, Michigan
For how long: 10 1/2 years
Online campaign information: brendarichardforjudge.com
Education: Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies, Wayne State University; Juris Doctor, Wayne State University Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Equalize justice. Due to unconscious bias, people of color are routinely given harsher fines and sentences. The court has the power to change this.
Court to School Program: Initiate a program that teaches high and middle school students information about the court, perhaps by “taking the court to the school” on a few occasions throughout the school year.
Alternatives to jail: Look at programs that can assist with social or mental health needs of offenders.