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In the Eagle’s coverage area, voters in the Aug. 2 primary election will choose party representatives to run in the Nov. 8 general election for the gubernatorial race, as well as numerous races for U.S. Congress and the Michigan Legislature, a Bloomfield Township public safety tax proposal, and a non-homestead Bloomfield Hills Schools operating millage proposal.
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 10
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. U.S. representatives earn a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Huwaida Arraf
Age: 46
Occupation: Civil Rights Attorney
Municipality of residence: Macomb Township
For how long: 3 years
Online campaign information: huwaidaforcongress.com
Education: Juris Doctor
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Getting big money out of politics so that we can make this government and economy work for the masses, not just the wealthy, well-connected few. I will fight to keep abortion legal, pass gun safety laws to protect our communities, guarantee health care, create good jobs that pay a living wage, expand social security, provide a quality education to every child, and make corporate polluters pay to clean our air and water.
Democrat
Carl J. Marlinga
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired Circuit Court Judge
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: www.marlinga4congress.com
Education: Graduate University of Michigan Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney, 1985 – 2004; Macomb County Probate Judge, 2013-2016; Macomb County Circuit Court Judge, 2017 – February, 2022
Top goals: We must seriously address the price of gasoline and its affect upon overall inflation. We do this in the short term by authorizing a ceiling on profits that oil companies can make; but we also must move the economy to cheaper and cleaner forms of energy, harvesting the power of sun, wind, tides, and geothermal. We can create good paying union jobs by manufacturing the energy efficient products that will save our environment and provide cheap energy.
Democrat
Rhonda Powell
Age: 52
Occupation: Director of Operations
Municipality of residence: Mount Clemens
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: www.RhondaPowellforCongress.com
Education: MS Community Service, BA in Human Service
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Rhonda Powell is a 4th generation resident of Macomb County, a proven leader and advocate for the marginalized and vulnerable people Washington continues to leave behind. She will fight to ensure pre-K for all children, combat climate change, government accountability, protect reproductive and voting rights, and help working families not just get by, but get ahead.
Rhonda Powell is a native of the 10th District that will represent the interest of fellow residents.
Democrat
Angela Rogensues
Age: 41
Occupation: Warren City Council, At Large Member
Municipality of residence: Warren, Michigan
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.angelaforuscongress.com
Education: Angela holds a Bachelor of Science in Health studies and Psychology from Michigan State University and a Master of Arts in Educating Adults from DePaul University.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Warren City Council, At Large Member
Top goals: Angela will fight Republican efforts to limit contraception and other essential reproductive healthcare access. Work to bring good-paying, union manufacturing jobs to the district by rebuilding American supply chains and making more products in Michigan. Angela will also prioritize lowering the cost of prescription drugs under Medicare and expanding benefits to cover vision, hearing, and dental. Stand up to special interests and Republicans trying to cut Social Security and Medicare Benefits.
Democrat
Henry Yanez
Age: 64
Occupation: retired
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 14 years
Online campaign information: Website - henryyanezforcongress.com, FB Page - facebook.com/citi zenyanez, Twitter - @CitizenYanez
Education: AAS in Fire Science and General Studies from Oakland Community College
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am currently a City Councilman for the City of Sterling Heights. Previously I held the position of State Representative for House District 25, Sterling Heights and Warren, for three terms.
Top goals:
1 – I’ll work for an economy that is fair for everyone by lowering the cost of health care and prescriptions, hold corporations accountable for price gouging during tough economic times and make education more affordable to alleviate student debt.
2 – Affordable healthcare for all is a must, people shouldn’t go bankrupt for getting sick.
3 – Protecting our environment to make sure we leave a healthy, productive planet for future generations.
Republican
John James
Age: 41
Occupation: President, James Group
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, Michigan
For how long: 20 years
Online campaign information: JohnJamesMI.com
Education: United States Military Academy, BS; University of Michigan, MBA; Pennsylvania State University, MS Supply Chain Management
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Tackling rising prices, promoting clean water and quality education, repatriating manufacturing.
I will help stop reckless policies in Washington that cause more expensive gas, food and essentials. We must stop relying on foreign goods and bring our critical supply chains back to the U.S. I will prioritize investment in our futures by keeping our water clean and protecting a parent’s right to educate their children where they will be safest and most successful.
Republican
Tony Marcinkewciz
Age: 27
Occupation: Software Engineer
Municipality of residence: Macomb County
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: tonyformi10.com
Education: Bachelors Of Science in Information Technology Concentrations in Web and Database Development
Minor in Political Science.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: - Build Back American Small Business
- Lockdown Accountability Hearings
- Stop Inflation
- Lower Gas Prices
- Defund DC
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.
U.S. House of Representatives District 12
Four candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and three candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives earn a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Kelly Garrett
Age: 52
Occupation: Mayor of Lathrup Village and a State Director for a National Nonprofit Organization
Municipality of residence: Lathrup Village
For how long: 15 years in Lathrup Village; 35 years in Southfield
Online campaign information: www.voteforkellygarrett.com
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Rochester University and a Master of Information Systems from University of Phoenix
Previously and currently held elected offices:
- City Council - 2011 to Current
- Mayor Pro tem - 2013 to 2017
- Mayor - 2017 to Present
Top goals: Mayor Kelly Garrett’s first goal is to reduce Inflation but also want to address these critical issues important to citizens of the 12th District.
· Families & seniors making tough decisions about the rising costs of healthcare including prescription drugs.
· Small business owners trying to stay open post COVID.
· Cities in the 12th District getting their fair share of federal funding.
· Gun violence sweeping through our communities.
· Keeping jobs in Michigan.
· Affordable and Quality Education for everyone.
Democrat
Rashida Tlaib
Age: 45
Occupation: U.S. Congresswoman
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 45 Years
Online campaign information: www.rashidaforcongress.com
Education: Wayne State University BS 1998 in Political Science and JD in Law 2004 from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Congress 2019-Present, MI State Representative 2009-2015
Top goals: I have six top priority issues that are grounded in the work I’ve done since entering congress. Racial and Immigration Justice, Economic and Housing Justice, Healthcare for All, Human Rights around the world, Environmental justice, and LGBTQ/Woman’s rights Justice.
Democrat
Janice Winfrey
Age: 64
Occupation: Presently Detroit City Clerk
Municipality of residence: City of Detroit
For how long: Life-Long Resident
Online campaign information: www.janiceforcongress.com
Education:
· Bachelor of Science, Public Administration/Management
· Cass Technical High School
· Certifications/License:
§ Certified, Elections Administrator, State Bureau of Elections
§ Certified: Leadership and Achievement, National League of Cities
§ Election Center Training Program, Washington, D.C.
§ Mathematics Teacher, Detroit Public Schools
Previously and currently held elected offices: Presently Detroit City Clerk
Top goals: If elected, I will work to ensure that the interest of each citizen is at the forefront of all policy and legislation. I will pass laws broadening, not restricting, the right to vote; address global warming by reducing dependence on fossil fuels; pass laws protecting a woman’s right to choose and protect the lives of innocent citizens to gun violence by limiting who can be in possession of a firearm.
Democrat
Shanelle Jackson
Age: 42
Occupation: Senior Manager, State Government Affairs
Online campaign information: https://shanelle.us/
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Lifetime Resident
Education: B.S. Political Science- University of Michigan
M.A. Social Justice- Marygrove College
Previously and currently held elected offices:
State Representative, Ninth District
Top goals: My most immediate priority as a Member of Congress will be to work with the Biden Administration and the Federal Reserve to help stop inflation to reduce the cost of living for all Michiganders. Secondly, I will work to find permanent solutions to sure up Medicare and Social Security for our seniors, and I will partner with both republicans and democrats in the Michigan Delegation to get this done.
Republican
Hassan H Nehme
Age: 32
Occupation: Local Business Owner, Contracting company specializing in abstract interior paint designs
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: 16 years before the service and working out of state for 4 years and moved back 2 years ago
Online campaign information: HassanNehme.com
Education: Currently working on my behavioral science degree, United States Army combat medic, licensed in contracting, real estate, automotive dealer. Emergency medical technician certification.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate for Wayne County
Top goals: Our current representation forgot they were appointed to represent the constituents of their districts, not to have unquestionable loyalty to their political party. My goal is to bring the power back to the people, putting their interests above all else. Draft process guaranteeing parents involvement in any curriculum changes, any changes then must be voted on before implementation, defend medical freedom, reform mail-in ballot process, secure the southern border, defend and preserve our constitution.
Republican
Steven Elliott
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
James Hooper
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State Senate District 7
Two Democrats are running to compete for one four-year term in November. Corinne Khederian is running unopposed on the Republican side. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.
Democrat
Ryan Foster
Age: 42
Occupation: American health plans/ sales
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: Born and raised
Online campaign information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RF75OhS_Txg
Education: Ferris State 2002 BA History
Previously and currently held elected offices: NA
Top goals: Increase spending in k~5 education. Lower taxes for small businesses and focus on cutting Michigan’s budget to address states debt.
Democrat
Jeremy Moss
Age: 36
Occupation: State Senator
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: votejeremymoss.com
Education: BA in Journalism, Additional Major in Political Science from Michigan State University; Studied Race Relations in South Africa through MSU; Graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council (2011-2014), State Representative (2015-2018), State Senator (2019-present)
Top goals:
-- Protecting your right to vote: I’m leading the fight against Senate Republican bills that could restrict access to your ballot.
-- Standing up for reproductive rights: I’m working with urgency to end Michigan’s 1931 abortion felony law. For my advocacy on choice, I am Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan’s only endorsed candidate.
-- Demanding action on common-sense gun reform: I introduced legislation to strengthen background checks and other proven measures to reduce gun violence.
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 19
One candidate is 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.
Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Running unopposed.
Republican
Anthony Paesano
Running unopposed.
State House of Representatives District 54
Three Democrats and two Republicans are running to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary
of $71,685 plus expenses.
Democrat
Stephanie Fakih
Age: 34
Occupation: Attorney and Bloomfield Township Trustee
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: stephaniefakih.com
Education: Cranbrook Kingswood High School, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, B.A., Fordham University School of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected to Bloomfield Township Board of Trustees in 2020
Top goals: When elected my top goal will be to attract business and people to Michigan through investments in education and infrastructure. If we invest in Michigan public schools and boost our workforce, businesses and people will begin to look at Michigan as a destintation state for our quality of life, affordability and business opportunity.
Democrat
Gary Gerson
Age: 59
Occupation: Retired Teacher and Current Educational Consultant; Transportation; Author
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: gersonmirep.org
Education: BS (Geology/Earth Sciences) Vanderbilt University 1985; M.Ed. (Educational Technology and Curriculum) Grand Canyon University 2005
Previously and currently held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: I have wide experience in advanced education, specialized education, IEP’s, learning challenges, curriculum development, private schools, public schools, science education, scientific inquiry, global warming and the greenhouse effect, foster care, adoption subsidies, Children’s Special Health, business development, the gig economy, world travel, textbook development, being an author, graphs and data, religious studies, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, AIDS education, the Arts, and youth sports, and I want to use it all to make Michigan better for everyone.
Democrat
Shadia Martini
Age: 56
Occupation: Realtor and Builder
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 1 year, resident of Southeast Michigan for 30 years.
Online campaign information: https:// martini2022.com/
Education: BS Architectural Engineering University of Aleppo, MBA University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: In Lansing, I’ll fight to enact common-sense gun violence prevention legislation and ensure that our reproductive rights are protected. Keeping our great lakes clean, our healthcare affordable, and our public schools strong are also top priorities. I’m honored to be endorsed by #VOTEPROCHOICE, Emgage, AFSCME Council 25, AMPAC, Planned Parenthood, and LGBT Detroit Mobilization for my commitment to advocate for the interests of our community.
Republican
Sandy Kiesel
Age: 59
Occupation: Currently the Executive Director of the Election Integrity Fund and Force non-profit, non-partisan organization focused on unifying the United States through transparent and trusted elections. Previously, I owned and ran a consulting company helping organizations in diverse industries improve their performance and worked as a leader at both suppliers and OEM’s in the auto industry.
Municipality of residence: Orion Township, Oakland County
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information: sandykiesel.com
Education: Bachelor of Science, Chemical Engineering, Trine University, Masters Business Administration, The Eli Broad School of Business at Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: I will be a warrior for freedom and choice focused on parental rights, school of choice, 2nd amendment rights, and medical choice. I will continue to lead the fight for trusted and transparent elections through mandatory Voter ID, accurate voter roles, and elimination of unsecure drop boxes. I will push a Michigan First agenda that ensures a fiscally conservative small government, lower taxes, reduced regulation, support for small businesses, energy independence and inflation lowering measures.
Republican
Donni Steele
Age: 57
Occupation: Treasurer of Charter Township of Orion
Municipality of residence: Orion Township
For how long: Lived in Orion area entire life, went to Orion schools
Online campaign information: http://donnisteele.com
Education: BBA, business management degree Western Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Orion Township Trustee 2012-2016; Orion Township Treasurer 2016-present
Top goals: The current economy is a concern. We have inflation and supply chain issues yet the state has an abundance surplus revenue. The current State budget is on track for a record high $70+ billion- spending in 2023, I’m concerned these funds will be utilized to create unsustainable government funding of additional and/or enlarging governmental departments. This type of spending should be discouraged and encourage legislators to pay off debt; reduce unfunded state liabilities; increase the “rainy day fund” (...)
State House of Representatives District 56
Two 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
Sharon MacDonell
Age: 60
Occupation: Advertising Manager and Video Producer
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 17 years
Online campaign information: electsharonmac.com
Education: BA, History, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: For over a decade, I have been active in my community, helping save the Troy Public Library and demanding ethical behavior from our officials. As the State Rep for House District 56, I will continue solving our community’s problems. I will work diligently to ensure that our public schools are adequately funded, improve healthcare access, overturn the Retirement Tax, and help families and small businesses as they face the challenges of ongoing economic pressures.
Democrat
Cyndi Peltonen
Age: 68
Occupation: Former Music Teacher, Piano and Voice Teacher, and Church Music Director
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 45 years
Online campaign information: www.CyndiPeltonen.com
Education: Bachelor of Music, Wayne State University; Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership and Public Administration
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have been elected to the Clawson Board of Education five times and served for over twenty years as President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Trustee. This past January I was appointed to fill a vacancy on the board.
Top goals: I believe in the inherent worth and dignity of every person. My goal is to speak out against HATE and bring back civility in public discourse.
I will stand with ALL members of our community - women, the LGBTQ community, Black and Brown people, educators, students, families, retirees, immigrants, and anyone who is being denied basic civil and human rights.
I will be a bold, relentless advocate for safety, compassion, equity, inclusion, and justice for all!
Republican
Mark Gunn
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 1
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Dave Woodward
Running unopposed.
Repepublican
Chris Meister
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 9
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running unopposed for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Angela Powell
Age: 40
Occupation: Elected Official, Small Business Owner-Tax Savvy Refunds Company, Community Relations Specialist -Mayor Tim Greimel
Municipality of residence: City of Pontiac
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: Voteangelapowell.com
Education: Oakland University- Rochester, MI Bachelor of Arts- Major in English 2006
Baker College-Auburn Hills, MI Interpreting Training Program-2014
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate and Oakland County Commissioner 10
Top goals:
Housing-Find resources to help with the housing crisis!
Mental Health-Find more resources and continue to have direct conversation regarding this problem.
Workforce-Get creative and find more resources to help get people back in the workforce.
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Mark E. Holland
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Gjysta Nuculaj
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 11
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Marcia Gershenson
Running unopposed.
Republican
S. Dave Sullivan
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 18
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Janet Jackson
Running unopposed.
Republican
Kat Phillips
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 19
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican 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.
Proposals
• Local School District Bloomfield Hills Schools Operating Millage Restoration Proposal Bloomfield Hills Schools County of Oakland State of Michigan This proposal would restore and increase the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be levied by the Bloomfield Hills Schools for general operating purposes by 2.00 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempt by law. This authority, if approved and combined with the School District’s other unexpired authorization, would allow the School District to continue to levy the statutory limit of 18.00 mills on all property, except principal residence and other property exempt by law, in the event of future Headlee rollbacks. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on all property, except principal residence and other property exempt by law, in the Bloomfield Hills Schools, County of Oakland, State of Michigan, be increased by 2 mills ($2.00 on each $1,000 of taxable value) for three (3) years, the years 2023 to 2025, inclusive, to provide funds for operating expenses? This millage would raise an estimated $256,138 for the School District in the first year that it is levied.
• Bloomfield Township Public Safety Millage Replacement Shall the Charter Township of Bloomfield replace two (2) voter authorized public safety tax levies of 2.2307 mills, and 1.0572 mills (a combined total of 3.2879 mills reduced by required millage rollbacks), due to expire in 2022 and 2023 respectively, with one new combined replacement rate of 3.89 mills, authorizing a levy of $3.89 per $1,000 of taxable value to finance the Charter Township of Bloomfield’s continued providing of fire, police and public safety protection, for a period of 10 years, with the new combined replacement millage to be levied commencing in December 2023 and if the new combined replacement millage is approved, the Charter Township of Bloomfield would not levy the December 2023 levy of the 2014 voter authorized public safety 1.0572 mills as rolled back. This new combined replacement millage will be subject to applicable statutory and constitutional tax limitation provisions at the time of the levy and will not exceed the above stated rate. It is estimated that this proposal would result in the authorization to collect $18,175,000 in the first year if approved and fully levied. Shall this proposal be adopted?
