Voters in Eagle's coverage area to decide on local and state races

BLOOMFIELD/BIRMINGHAM/FRANKLIN/BINGHAM FARMS/BEVERLY HILLS — In the Eagle’s coverage area, voters will decide on Nov. 8 Michigan’s next governor, national and state legislators, county commissioners, village council members, and more. 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.

 

 

Governor 
Six candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for the position is $159,300 plus benefits.

Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Age: 51
Occupation: I have served as Michigan’s 49th governor since 2019.
Municipality of residence: Lansing, Michigan
For how long: I have lived in Ingham County since 1989, after moving there from Kent County. 
Online campaign information: www.gretchenwhitmer.com
Education: Michigan State University (BA, 1993), Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University (JD, 1998)
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have served as Michigan’s 49th Governor since 2019. I previously served as Ingham County Prosecutor in 2016, in the State Senate from 2006-2015, and in the State House of Representatives from 2001-2006.
Top goals: I am focused on the fundamentals: cutting costs for families, improving education, creating good-paying jobs, building resilient infrastructure, and supporting small businesses. 
I will continue fighting to cut taxes for seniors and working families, grow our economy, and protect the fundamental rights of Michigan women.
Despite all the challenges of the past few years, we have brought people together to get things done, and I will build on that momentum to continue moving Michigan forward. 

Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Age: 45
Occupation: Former steel sales executive and small business owner, mother of 4
Municipality of residence: Norton Shores, Muskegon County
For how long: 20+ years
Online campaign information: TudorDixon.com
Education: Psychology degree from University of Kentucky
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: I am running for governor to improve education after Gretchen Whitmer’s lockdowns set our students back. I am running to restore law and order and declare that we will not accept spiking crime and that we support our police. I am running to improve our economy and ease the burden of regulations. I have vowed to cut 40% of regulations in my first four years so businesses can grow and Michiganders can attain good-paying jobs.

Libertarian
Mary Buzuma
Age: 65
Occupation: Retired U.S. Navy after 26 years in Naval Intelligence
Municipality of residence: Grand Haven
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: electmarybuzuma.com
Education: BA, Political Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As the first Libertarian governor of Michigan I will work to roll back the state and restore the inalienable right to choose for all Michiganders. The right to choose how to educate their children, how to spend their hard earned money, how to best take care of their medical needs and most important how to live their lives.

U.S. Taxpayers
Donna Brandenburg
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Green
Kevin Hogan 
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired Published Research Biochemist (with an Avocation of  Substitute Teacher)
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: No answer given
Online campaign information: Ballotpedia.org
Education: University of Michigan: Biochemistry, Western Governors University: Masters in Education (teach Chemistry)
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: Provide for Women’s Equality; LGBTQI(+) Equality, End The Gretchen Whitmer COVID19 (and its Variants) Pandemic, Fix Michigan’s broken Education System (only 10 states are worse in education than Michigan), Improve Everyone’s Standard of Living by Improving the Economy through Job Creation (including fixing the damn roads, bridges, and damns) and Ending the The Gretchen Whitmer Dictatorship (E-Cigarrettes off the market, COVID19 Lock Downs, Mask Mandates,...) and providing for Animal Rights.

Natural Law
Daryl M. Simpson
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

Secretary of State
Five candidates are running for one four-year term. The secretary of state receives a salary of $112,410. 

Democrat
Jocelyn Benson
Age: 44 (at this writing)
Occupation: Michigan Secretary of State, election lawyer
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: www.votebenson.com
Education: A graduate of Wellesley College, Harvard Law School, Oxford University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Michigan Secretary of State; Wellesley, Massachusetts Town Council 
Top goals: If reelected, my goal will be to continue the work we’ve done since 2018, namely continuing to improve services at the Secretary of State’s Office and protect our democracy so every voice is heard and every vote is counted for Republicans, Democrats and Independents, alike.  We have modernized our office so branch office visits are 20 minutes or less, and in November 2020 I presided over the safest, most secure general election in Michigan history. 

Republican 
Kristina Elaine Karamo
Age:  37
Occupation: Professor at Wayne County Community College
Municipality of residence: Oak Park
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.KristinaKaramo.com
Education: BA from Oakland University in Communications, Master Degree in Christian Apologetics, Biola University in CA.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Ensure a politically neutral Department of State. Elections shall be operated per the rule-of-law. Car dealership and repair facility inspections along with fees and fines shall not be used to fund a bloated budget when less than 8% of what is currently generated by the SoS is needed to run the SoS. Ensure SOS branch office and vehicle related operations are customer focused, by ensuring local concerns are integral when improving administrative operations.

Libertarian
Gregory Scott Stempfle
Age: 45
Occupation: Medical Technologist, Henry Ford Hospital
Municipality of Residence: Ferndale
For How Long: Since 2010
Online campaign information: www.stempfle4sos.org
Education: BS Clinical Laboratory Sciences – Wayne State, 2008; MS Molecular Medicine and Genetics - Wayne State, 2012
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: I would like to streamline and automate services, when possible, without leaving those without access to technology behind. I will advocate for changes to the vehicle registration process so that car and truck owners can permanently register their vehicle rather than every year or two years. I will also advocate for changes to our election system to increase the participation of independent and third-party candidates such as ranked choice voting for state elections.

U.S. Taxpayers 
Christine C. Schwartz
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Green
Larry James Hutchinson, Jr.
Age: 49
Occupation: Artist and author
Municipality of residence: Lansing
For how long: 10 years.
Online campaign information: Facebook
Education: Associates of Arts in psychology, Mott Community College, and studied Anthropology and Political Science at University of Michigan - Flint
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals all fly under the umbrella of campaign finance reform. We need publicly funded elections and for election day to become a state holiday. I’d love to see 100 percent voter participation, but that is not likely. Publicly funded elections can. I sign the waiver and requested that any candidate that has taken money to please return it. Election day becoming a state holiday is a no brainer. Thx and Vote Green.

 

Attorney General
Four candidates are running for one four-year term. The attorney general receives a salary of $112,410. 

Democrat
Dana Nessel
Age: 53
Occupation: Michigan Attorney General
Municipality of residence: Plymouth
For how long: I was elected in 2018.
Online campaign information: www.dananessel.com
Education: Graduated from the University of Michigan and Wayne State University law school.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Attorney General is my first elected office.
Top goals: I would like to continue the work of my first term, fighting for the rights of all Michiganders. I will continue prosecuting sexual assault and domestic violence. I will defend reproductive freedom and uphold the will of the voters. I will pursue consumer protection and go after price-gouging, including when special interests like Big Pharma charge exorbitant prices for life-saving medications. As the People’s Lawyer, I will defend the most vulnerable among us.

Republican
Matthew DePerno
Age: 52
Occupation: Attorney 
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 24 years 
Online campaign information: www.depernoformi.com
Education: Undergrad from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. Juris Doctorate from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law in 1994, and master’s degree in Taxation Law (LL.M.) from New York University School of Law in 1995.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goal is to restore Michigan to the great state it once was. I will fight to lower the skyrocketing crime, clean up government corruption and fight for parents rights in schools. Michigan was once a leader in business and education and a place we were proud to call home. I will fight to make this a reality again. I kindly ask for your support. 

Libertarian
Joseph W. McHugh Jr.
Age: 44
Occupation: Financial Advisor & Fitness Coach
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Mid-2021
Online campaign information: LibertyStrikesBack.com
Education: BA Michigan State University, International Relations & Political Economy; MBA Babson College Entrepreneurship & Sustainability 
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We will restore our liberty and justice by partnering with attorneys and the public to accomplish the following: transparent voting systems run on open source election software, voiding vague laws, terms of service and privacy policy agreements to comply with the 1926 Void for Vagueness doctrine and due process, and enforce a No Harm, No Crime standard to restore free action, release non-violent prisoners, expunge records immediately, and provide backpay for unjustly lost time.

U.S. Taxpayers
Gerald T. Van Sickle
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

U.S. House of Representatives District 10
Four candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives receive a salary of $174,000.

Democrat
Carl Marlinga
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired judge
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 42 years
Online campaign information: www.marlinga4congress.com
Education: Graduate University of Michigan Law School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Macomb County Prosecuting Attorney, Macomb Probate Judge, Macomb Circuit Judge
Top goals: I will introduce legislation to provide research and development money and other incentives to bring new manufacturing jobs to Michigan. We can and should build the energy saving devices the world is waiting for – things like heat pumps, fast EV charging stations, wind turbines, tidal turbines, and solar panels. We can build a booming economy AND save the planet. I will also strongly support restoring a woman’s right to choose.

Republican
John James
Age: 41
Occupation: President, James Group
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
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.

Libertarian
Mike Saliba
Age: 37
Occupation: Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Clinton Township
For how long: Most of my life
Online campaign information: votesaliba.com
Education: Some college
Previously and currently held elected offices: None yet
Top goals: My key promise is to vote no on any bill that does not decrease the power of government or increase the freedom of the people. I have pledged to co-sign HR 25, The FAIRtax Bill, which is already in committee in the house. I will demand our leaders seek PEACE in Ukraine. I believe in more personal freedom than a Democrat and more fiscal responsibility than a Republican. I am a Libertarian.

Working Class
Andrea L. Kirby
Age: 45
Occupation: Union Worker
Municipality of residence: Eastpointe
For how long: 10
Online campaign information: https://workingclassfight.com/
Education: College graduate
Previously and currently held elected offices: n/a
Top goals: My top priority would be to ensure that all of the wealth that is generated by the working class are used for the needs of the working class and not diverted to corporate tax subsidies and banks. Funding to be used for education, public health, infrastructure and more. Jobs for all those that want to work. Wages that grow with inflation. Promoting the unity and strength of the working class would be my top priority.

 

U.S. House of 
Representatives 
District 11
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives receive a salary of $174,000.

Democrat
Haley Stevens
Age: 39
Occupation: Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: Not given.
Online campaign information: https://haleystevensforcongress.com
Education: B.A. in Social Policy and Philosophy and M.A. in Political Science and Philosophy from American University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I am the current two term Congresswoman from Michigan’s 11th District.
Top goals: My top goals and why I am running for re-election in Michigan’s 11th District are protecting a woman’s right to choose, increasing opportunities for women, girls, and minorities in STEM education, and ending the gun violence epidemic that plagues our society. 

Republican
Mark Ambrose
Age: 52
Occupation: Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and Regional Investment Manager
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 13 years - also raised in Bloomfield Twp. (additional 18 years)
Online campaign information: www.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, Master of International Affairs, Russian Studies: 1995-1998; Columbia Business School, MBA (Master of Business Administration), 1996-1998
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: 1. Reduce inflation and improve our economy through responsible and informed economic policies. 2. Security: Increase border security, reduce crime, and honor our police. 3. Strengthen our military, so that the United States will never be challenged. 4. Create jobs for Michigan and America through fair trade.  Encourage business to invest, build and manufacture in the United States. 5. Cure Autism – dedicate resources to ending this disease.

 

U.S. House of 
Representatives 
District 12
Three candidates are running for one two-year term. U.S. representatives earn a salary of $174,000. 

Democrat
Rashida Tlaib
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Steven Elliott
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Working class 
Gary Walkowicz 
Age: 73
Occupation: Auto assembly line worker and elected UAW representative (retired)
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: workingclassfight.com
Education: High school, some college, 45 years as an auto worker.
Previously and currently held elected offices: NA
Top goals: The two major parties do not represent working people. The working class needs its own political party. The working class has the power to make a fight for a better life. The working class can fight to raise wages to fight inflation, divide up the work so everyone can have a job, and to make sure that public money is used for public services instead of being given to the corporations and the banks.

 

 

State Senate District 7
Two candidates are running for one four-year term.

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.

Republican
Corinne Khederian
Age: No answer given
Occupation: Attorney and Community Volunteer
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 31 years
Online campaign information: corinneformichigan.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts with Honors from State University of New York at Binghamton - Major:  Political Science, Minor:  Communications
Juris Doctor (Law Degree) - Syracuse University College of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Previously served in Elected Office as a Trustee of Bloomfield Township
Top goals: 
1) Economy - Out of control inflation must be addressed & lowered.
2) Education - Ensure a quality education for all students &  parents deserve a say in how this is accomplished.
3) Election Security -  Safeguards in place for secure & fair elections.
4) Energy Independence - Lower gas prices & invest in energy resources at home.
5) Law Enforcement - Support our Police with adequate funding and programs.
6) Mental Illness - Program ensuring quality mental care to lower crime & homelessness.

 

 

State Senate District 8
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.

Democrat
Mallory McMorrow
Age: 36
Occupation: State Senator for Michigan’s 13th District
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak
For how long: 6 years
Online campaign information: www.McMorrowforMichigan.com
Education: the University of Notre Dame, BA in Industrial Design
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Senator for Michigan’s 13th District
Top goals: My top priorities are defending reproductive rights for women, families and anyone who needs them; reducing gun violence; protecting our water and fighting climate change; protecting your right to vote, supporting our schools, teachers, students, and parents; and empowering workers and families.

Republican
Brandon Ronald Simpson
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

 

State House of 
Representatives 
District 5
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.

Democrat
Natalie Price
Age: 41
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. 

Republican
Paul Taros
Age: 65
Occupation: Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 25 years
Online campaign information: TimeForTaros.com
Education: MBA from Wayne State University, BBA from the University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We need to stop worrying what pronouns our children should use and return to proven educational techniques. Teach our kids how to think, rather than indoctrinating them with what to think. We need to return to the 3 R’s, reading, writing and arithmetic. So many of our children graduate without being proficient in the 3 R’s. Vocational and skilled trades should be added to the high school curriculum.

 

State House of 
Representatives District 19
Two candidates are running for 
onetwo-year term.State 
representatives earna salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Anthony Paesano
Age: 50
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 23 years
Online campaign information:
www.paesanoformichigan.com
Education: Birmingham Brother Rice, Purdue University, University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: We need more responsible and accountable leadership in public office. I will be a guardian of tax dollars and will vote against reckless spending. On education, we must shift our focus on reading, writing and arithmetic, and increased services for special needs students, and eliminate extreme social agendas of unions and school boards. On public safety, we need to curb the increase in crime by increasing funding and support for police and fire.

 

State House of 
Representatives 
District 54
Two candidates are running for 
one two-year term. State 
representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Shadia Martini
Age: 56
Occupation: Real Estate Broker, Builder, Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 1 year, Southeast Michigan resident for 30 year
Online campaign information: martini2022.com
Education: MBA University of Michigan, BS University of Aleppo
Previously and currently held elected offices:  N/A
Top goals: The right to choose is on the ballot: I am a strong supporter of reproductive rights. In Lansing, I’ll fight to overturn the archaic 1931 law that bans abortion, even in cases of rape or incest. As an over two-decade local small business owner, I’m ready to take steps to energize our economy, starting with repealing the retirement tax and cutting the gas tax for immediate relief.

Republican
Donni Steele 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
 

 

State House of 
Representatives 
District 56
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. 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.

Republican
Mark Gunn
Age: 62
Occupation: Small business Owner (Loss Control operations in Midwest)
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 34 years
Online campaign information: Michigan | Mark Gunn State Rep (markgunn4rep.com)
Education: Bachelors and Masters Degree
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate in Troy for 8 years.
Top goals: Economy /Small business: Fight for income tax cuts. Oppose any more budget increases. Repeal the Retirement tax. Fight to remove many regulations hurting business growth. Infrastructure: Support use of better material for roads, to provide longer life of the roads. Support more investment into the roads and bridges by cutting costs in other areas. Schools: Support a plan to increase teacher pay. Support schools focus on Science, technology, English and Math.

 

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 9
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Angela Powell
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Republican
Gjysta Nuculaj
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 1
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
David T. Woodward
Age: 46
Occupation: County Commissioner, small business owner
Municipality of residence: Royal Oak, MI
For how long: 45 years 
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: B.S. Mathematics, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Oakland County Board of Commissioner Chairman (2019-present) County Commissioner (2005-present) U.S. Presidential Elector (2008) State Representative (1999-2004)
Top goals: 
Transit
 • Expand county transit system to connect people to more destinations.
 • Increase transportation options for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities. 
• Get more workers to jobs, patients to health care, and students to higher education. 
Infrastructure 
• Fix road and water infrastructure. 
• Build electric vehicle infrastructure required to support EV demand. 
• Create more county parks. 
Manufacturing
 • Created U.S. Center for Advanced Manufacturing. 
• Support local manufacturers. Make things in America. 
• Improve supply chains. Create good-paying jobs.

Republican
Chris Meister
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

Oakland County 
Board of Commissioners District 11
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Marcia Gershenson 
Occupation: County Commissioner 
Municipality of Residence: Bloomfield 
For how long: 20 year resident 
Online campaign information: Marcia Gershenson for County Commissioner Facebook page 
Education: Graduate University of Michigan BA education 
Previously and currently held elected offices: County Commissioner since 2005 
Top goals: My first priority is to continue the County’s efforts to support our businesses economic recovery. In addition, I am focused on helping to provide seniors the services they need to live independently. Also, I am currently working to expand our Health Department to address the needs of families with the establishment of community Health Centers.

Republican
S. Dave Sullivan
Age: 55
Occupation: Realtor
Municipality of residence: Orchard Lake
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/RealtorDaveSullivan
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the University of Western Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: City Councilman in the City of Orchard Lake.
Top goals:
Most people believe our nation is on the wrong track. We have lost our ability to see the good in what our country represents. The United States of America has lifted the entire globe out of poverty and spread freedom worldwide. This happened because we once had a small government that allowed individuals to make decisions for themselves. Elect S, Dave Sullivan, and I will end offensive county government overreach.

 

Oakland County 
Board of Commissioners District 18
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Janet Jackson
Age: 61
Occupation: Administration AT&T
Municipality of residence: Southfield 
For how long: 32 years
Online campaign information: oak gov.com
Education: Bachelor of Arts Management and Organizational Development, Spring Arbor University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner. Precinct Delegate
Top goals: Continuing to govern addressing post pandemic needs supporting our residents facing challenges of food insecurity and housing instability.  Creating initiatives to assist our residents will helping those who are struggling.Quality of life issues will be tackled concerning supporting a countywide transportation mileage, increasing workforce development, and small business and mental and physical health needs. Diversity and inclusion and law enforcement will be highlighted as we strive for social justice.  

Republican
Kat Phillips
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

Oakland County 
Board of Commissioners District 19
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Charlie Cavell
Age: 32
Occupation: County Commissioner and Social Worker
Municipality of residence: Ferndale
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: https://www.cavell4commission.com
Education: Wayne State BSW and University of Michigan MSW
Previously and currently held elected offices: County Commission District 18 (Ferndale, Berkley, Huntington Woods, Pleasant Ridge, Birmingham, and parts of Royal Oak)
Top goals: If elected, my main goals are to achieve racial, social, economic, and environmental justice. I will do this by helping to create and expand the following programs.
Thriving communities:
+Affordable utilities for working families
+Aging in place programs for seniors
Happy and healthy people:
+Expand Childcare programming 
Smart business:
+Prioritize small businesses thru economic gardening over big business tax breaks 

Republican
Joseph C. Pucci
Age: 47
Occupation: VP/Business Dev.
Municipality of residence: Huntington Woods, District 19, Oakland County 
For how long: 15yr
Online campaign information: www.votepucci.com
Education: MSU
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Oppose any transit expansion, paying for other city/county water bills, partnering with NGO’s like the WEF that the current commissioner panel invited into the county! Protect parents’ rights and that of small business’ to not be infringed on by local bureaucrats. Lastly, fully fund our Sheriff department and road commission. 

 

 

Beverly Hills 
Village Council
Eight candidates are running for four four-year terms. 

Rock Abboud
Age: No answer given
Occupation: Marketing Executive
Municipality of residence: Village of Beverly Hills
For how long: 48 years 
Online campaign information: rockabboud.com
Education: Associates in Information System (ASIS); Bachelor of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) and a Master’s in Business (MBA)
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Village of Beverly Hills Council Member 2014-2018 (President Pro Tem for 2 years).
CURRENTLY: Village of Beverly Hills Council Member 2018-2022; 
Top goals: As an incumbent Beverly Hills Village Council Member for the past 8 years, I have always revolved my goals around what matters most to the residents of the Village. When re-elected, I will manage the Budget to maintain our Infrastructure and Parks, along with supporting Public Safety and Education via the Baldwin Public Library. With my essential municipal government experience, I vow to keep Beverly Hills the safest and best place to raise a family.

James P. Delaney
Age: Not Relevant
Occupation: 38-year legal career with Michigan Attorney General’s Office and additional legal consulting
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 40 years 
Online campaign information: None
Education: Graduate of University of Detroit and Detroit College of Law (now MSU Law School)
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Beverly Hills Village Council 1986-1988 and 2014-2018
Top goals: ​​Repave worst residential streets. Is waterline replacement in East Beverly urgent? If so, proceed to schedule. Settle Public Safety contract and return to full staffing for Village safety. No new park on 13 Mile because of huge development costs and is not needed. No traffic circle at Southfield and Beverly as it will make it worse for traffic and pedestrians. Full discussion of issues at open public meetings, not on private social media websites.

Gabriel Ervin
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

John George
Age: 48
Occupation: Risk Management & Commercial Insurance
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 12+ years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/JohnGeorge4BeverlyHills
Education: BS in Political Science & Automotive Technology, Multiple Risk & Insurance Professional Designations
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Beverly Hills Village Council 2018 - Present, Council President 2020 - Present
Top goals: 1) Infrastructure & Assets: We just accepted a $100,000 grant from Oakland County to complete comprehensive infrastructure planning. That will guide informed decisions on water delivery, sewer and roads.
2) Staffing/Services: Staffing and training to deliver services meeting residents’ expectations. “How we do it” can be improved. I’m working now on processes & hope to continue.
3) Finish Sidewalks: $2.9M in applied for and promising grant funding and a plan to connect our community.

Karen Gilbert
Age: 58
Occupation: Finance Professional – Funding Forecast Manager
Municipality of residence: Village of Beverly Hills
For how long: 34
Online campaign information: karengilbert4bh2022@gmail.com
Education: BBA and Master of Science Finance; ABA Certified Paralegal
Previously and currently held elected offices: None 
Top goals: ​​(1) I would support and encourage the Council to spend as much time coordinating and implementing a plan to repair and replace our aging infrastructure as we currently spend discussing aspirational park initiatives; (2) I would request regular public Council updates from the DPS Director until such time as our short staffing is cured; and (3) I would create a “Customer Service” plan to re-dedicate a spirit of open communication and transparency with the residents.

Racheal Hrydziuszko 
Age: 42
Occupation: Dog groomer
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 34 years
Online campaign information: 
Education: Bachelors in Conservation Forestry from MSU
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently President ProTem Beverly Hills Village Council
Top goals: Continued outreach to residents encouraging involvement in their local government’s conversations and initiatives.  I’m doing my part to serve my community and complete the initiatives the Current Council has started with sidewalks and infrastructure.  I have lived in this community almost my entire life, I love connecting with my neighbors, helping them feel empowered to be more involved and making sure this community is the best it can be for our children to grow up. 

Jon M. Oen 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Mike White
Age: 63
Occupation: Mechanical Engineer (retired)
Municipality of residence: Village of Beverly Hills
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: Facebook Elect Mike White
Education: BSME (Purdue) MSME (Lawrence Tech)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Beverly Hills is a great place to live. I support sidewalks on all main roads, infrastructure planning, public safety, improving our parks, and the acquisition (via a grant) of the property on Wendbrook Lane for a new park. We also need to address the deer, buckthorn, and theft from automobile issues as a community.

 

Bingham Farms Village Council trustee
Five candidates are running for three four-year terms. 

William Burrell
Did not return questionnaire by press time. 

Lawrence Freedman 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

D. E. Hagaman
Age: 75
Occupation: Semi Retired
Municipality of residence: Village of Bingham Farms
For how long: 40 years
Online campaign information: N/A
Education: B.S. Art & Design
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: Maintain the character of the Village as it relates to tree density, residential and non-residential development
· Ensure existing ordinances are upheld and enforced
· Control development both in residential and office districts by working with developers to adhere to existing criteria
· Improve communication and transparency between Village Council and Village residents through an informative Newsletter and email blasts

Diane Howard 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Kathy Mechigian 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

 

Franklin Village Trustee
Five candidates are running for three four-year terms. 

Nena Downing 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Fred Gallasch 
Age: senior citizen
Occupation: retired automotive executive and college professor
Municipality of residence: Franklin, Michigan
For how long: 29 years 
Online campaign information: ResponsibleFranklin.com
Education: BS: chemistry & mathematics: Hampden-Sydney College
MS & PhD: statistics and economics: North Carolina State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Franklin Village Trustee for 20 years
Franklin Village President for 4 years
Top goals: I will strive to bring back transparency to government decisions especially those involving expenditures. I will seek citizen input on Council decisions. I believe that Villagers should approve all major non-ordinary expenditures. I will seek to bring back civility back to Franklin’s government.

David Goldberg 
Age: 56
Occupation: Attorney and Real Estate Broker
Municipality of residence: Village of Franklin
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: David Goldberg For Franklin on Facebook
Education: Bachelor’s Degree from University of Michigan
Juris Doctorate from University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: In February 2022, I was unanimously appointed to Village Council filling a vacant Trustee position. My term expires November 2022.
Top goals:  1) I support seeking funding for sidewalks along 13 Mile, Franklin south of 13, and Inkster allowing all Villager’s access Downtown, while also seeking alternate paths thru private easements in lieu of sidewalks in some places. 2) With assistance of professionals, talking with carriers, then public meetings with residents, we must investigate costs and effectiveness of installing discreet, strategically placed cell-tower, designing extensive DAS nodes, or some combination, and find who pays for such system(s).

Pam Hansen 
Age: 71
Occupation: Organization Consultant
Municipality of residence: Franklin, MI
For how long: 30 years 
Online campaign information:  facebook.com/profile.php?id=100085352750412
Education: BS Public Health Education, University of Minnesota
MBA, University of St Thomas, St Paul, MN
MS Org Development, Pepperdine University, Malibu, CA
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​Trustee, Village of Franklin MI
Village President, Franklin
Top goals:  My commitment is to ensure our historic village thrives as we manage residents’ expectations for a livable, connected community, ensure public safety, maintain a healthy business/retail community and ensure the long-term financial health of the village.
We need to start planning for a 13 Mile Road pathway and work with villagers to connect neighborhoods.
We need to move from talking about our poor cell service to agreeing on a solution and then committing to action.

David Albert Sahli
Age: 34
Occupation: Senior Regulatory Compliance Attorney
Municipality of residence:Village of Franklin
For how long: 4 years 
Online campaign information: facebook.com/Sahli4Franklin
Education: Law Degree, J.D. (University of South Dakota)
Bachelor of Arts with Majors in Political Science and American Indian Studies (University of South Dakota)
Previously and currently held elected offices: ​​None
Top goals: Community: I will facilitate collaboration between businesses and community groups to generate energy, support, and events bringing people together.
Engagement: I will improve Village communication by choosing mediums that meet residents where they’re at and proactively seek input on issues impacting them.
Service: The people’s priorities are my priorities. I’ll provide opportunities for Villagers to share their views. I currently welcome residents to meet with me every Wednesday at 6:30 PM outside Déjà vu Boutique.

 

Birmingham Public Schools Board of 
Education
Six candidates are running
 for two six-year terms.

Art Jack
Age: 56
Occupation: Engineering Consultant and recent retiree from Ford Motor Company- R&D
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 16 years
Online campaign information: https://artjackforbps.com/
Education: BS Degree, Electrical Engineering, Southern University (Baton Rouge, LA); MS Degree, Manufacturing Engineering, Wayne State University (Detroit, MI)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals are: Increase opportunities for high-achieving students to go even higher through advanced studies or direct to industry career opportunities, close the achievement gap, increase assistance and resources to families of children with disabilities, broaden the STEM/STEAM curriculum to help fill the talent
pipeline for job growth in Michigan, expand professional development for teachers, and increase mental health and
well-being resources for students and the BPS faculty, staff and administration.

Samuel Oh
Age: 46
Occupation: Principal Family Office Manager
Municipality of residence: Oakland
For how long: 9 years
Online campaign information: https://votesamueloh.wixsite.com/mysite
Education: Masters Degree in Architecture and Real Estate from University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: NA
Top goals: Current board makeup doesn’t accurately represent the families with students currently attending BPS. I do not have any affiliations and am purely here to represent the families. Second, my goal is to ensure all students and families get treated equally with respect by faculty and students.  Finally, to remediate our $14.5M debt and balance the budget as quickly as possible and then hold people accountable to ensure we never get into this situation again.

Nicole Spencer
Age: 44
Occupation: Educator
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 11 years
Online campaign information: www.electnicolespencer.com
Education: Alma College: BA - Elementary Education; Wayne State University: MS - Library and Information Science
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a current parent in the district, educator with over twenty years experience as a classroom teacher and school librarian, as well as a champion of public schools, my voice and viewpoint are critical to the board of education. My top priority is to advocate for equity, inclusion and transparency for all students, families and teachers because these are the most important factors in offering a world class education.

Kimberly Whitman
Age: 55 years old
Occupation: Former VP of Human Resources and current full-time Community Volunteer
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills, MI
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.kimwhitmanforbps.com
Education: CPA; MBA in Organizational Behavior and Human Resources Management (University of Michigan); BA in Psychology/Accounting (University of Michigan)
Previously and currently held offices: School Board Trustee, Birmingham Public Schools
Top goals: As a current BOE Trustee, I’ve had the opportunity see first-hand the effects that the pandemic had on our students/district. My top priorities are: (1) Support our students and serve as an advocate for strong academic supports and advancement opportunities. (2) Financial stewardship and ensuring tough questions answered by our leadership regarding budget distribution and actions. (3) Community engagement to ensure we as a district have transparent accountability to financial information and student achievement.

Bradley Wing
Age: 43
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.electbradwing.com
Education: Bachelor-Central Michigan University; Juris Doctorate-University of Detroit Mercy
Previously and currently held offices: No previous elected offices
Top goals: I want to be a champion for the children in the Birmingham Public Schools. I want to create an environment where every child has the opportunity to succeed and feels welcome in school. Additionally I want to work to keep the relationship between the board and the schools as cohesive and beneficial as possible.  

Colleen Zammit
Age: 46
Occupation: Stay at home mom
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 13 years
Online campaign information: colleenzammit4bps.com
Education: B.S. Environmental Policy and Behavior, University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: This is our first normal school year in three years, and I will work to support our Superintendent as she addresses the effects of the pandemic school closure and hybrid learning on our kids and teachers. I want our Board to represent our community and provide diligent oversight as we keep our focus on rigorous academics, supports for our teachers and kids in the classroom and meaningful and influential parent involvement.

 

 

Bloomfield Hills Schools Board of Education
Ten candidates are running for four spots on the board for a four-year term. This is an unpaid position.

Jim Baker
Age: 54
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 2013 – 2018; 2019 to present
Online campaign information: jamescbaker.us
Education: Michigan State University – BA in Political Science/Pre-Law
Thomas M. Cooley Law School – Juris Doctor
Previously and currently held elected offices: No government office
Top goals: As a Bloomfield Hills Schools Board member, I will support the Superintendent, Administration, and Educators to best serve our amazing students and their families. I will hold the Superintendent accountable for the services and direction of the District, while taking responsibility to lead the District in preparing our students to meet the education challenges facing them. I will be approachable and accountable to District families. I will listen and I will serve.

Lindsay G. Baker
Age: 43
Occupation: Senior Economist
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 17 years
Online campaign information: educationfirstbhs.com/lindsay- baker
Education: Ph.D. and M.A. in Economics from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor; A.B. in Economics with a certificate in Finance from Princeton University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My top goals are making education first, assuring safety, and ensuring resources are used responsibly and effectively. All board discussions and decisions should tie back to the fundamental goal of improving educational outcomes. We should learn from our own and other incidents and reevaluate safety plans as needed to ensure everyone is prepared and protected. I will evaluate all financial decisions, including bond management, from a perspective of fiscal responsibility and educational impact.

Sandeep Chada 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Tareq Falah 
Age: 38
Occupation: Chief Information Officer
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: falahforbhs.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree – Computer Science; Master’s Business Administration
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My first priority is Student Safety, with a complete safety audit for all facilities and all mental health needs. Secondly, focusing on academic excellence by identifying root causes at BHS and allow each child to reach their goals through differentiated learning opportunities and meeting each student where they are at. Lastly, I will work toward making sure our board is focused on prioritizing our students and engaged in transparent communication with our entire community

Nicholas Haugen 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Meagan M. Hill
Age: 40
Occupation: Licensed attorney and commercial real estate professional
Municipality of residence: West Bloomfield
For how long: 9 years
Online campaign information: educationfirstbhs.com
Education: Bachelor of Science, Major: Political Science from Eastern Michigan University and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: When elected, my goal is to bring professional viewpoints and processes to the Bloomfield Hills School board. This will ensure the right questions are being asked and goals are being properly set. Our kids deserve leaders who will make strategic decisions that have their long term success at top of mind. My top goals are (1) School safety (2) Excellent educational performance and (3) Student and teacher retention.

Paul Kolin
Age: 53
Occupation: Global Manager Human Resource Information System (HRIS)
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information:  Home | Education First for Bloomfield Hills (educationfirstbhs.com)
Education: MBA- Accounting
Previously and currently held elected offices:  Current Bloomfield Hills School Board Member
Top goals: 
Continue to ask questions on our educational data to help improve academic outcomes for all students.
I will work to balance the budget and analyze the details on where dollars are being spent to ensure we are being fiscally responsible with the taxpayer’s money.
Continue to ask questions and challenge our safety processes and protocols to make sure they are best practices, so that all our students are safe.

Harris Ng
Age: 50
Occupation: Senior Partner at global Strategy Consulting firm
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: EducationFirstBHS.com
Education: MBA Strategy and Finance at University of Michigan Ann Arbor Ross School of Business, BS Mechanical Engineering, BS Electrical Engineering, Kettering University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:
My priorities are:
1. Education First: Increase academic rigor in our school. Improve the academic achievement of our students
2. Fiscal Responsibility: Balance the budget. Focus more of our budget on instruction
3. Safety: Ensure our students and staff return home safely every day. Improve our safety protocols and process with reviews and audits
My experience and professionalism will increase the board governance and ensure BHS is the premier district in the state.

Carolyn Noble 
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Lauren Wilson 
Age: 39
Occupation: Director of Operations
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Township
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: laurenwilson4schoolboard.com
Education:  B.S. Psychology from the State University of New York at Buffalo
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals:  Vote Lauren Wilson to ensure that the children of Bloomfield Hills have an opportunity for a fair and apolitical education. 
Currently, our district is underperforming academically, fiscally, and operationally. I commit to ensuring that we focus on the basics - math, reading, and writing, by holding our administration accountable to measurable results, all tax dollars directly contribute to elevating student performance, preserving parental rights, and being accountable to taxpayers. Vote for Lauren Wilson on November 8th!

 

 

Justice of Supreme Court
Five candidates are running for two eight-year terms. Justices earn a salary of $165,000.

Richard Bernstein
Age: 48
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 23 years in Birmingham and lifelong resident of Michigan
Online campaign information: TheBlindJustice.com
Education: Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Michigan and earned juris doctor from Northwestern University School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Former member of the Wayne State University Board of Governors and current Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Top goals: The greatest need in Michigan’s justice system is increasing access to justice so all people have an opportunity to participate and navigate the justice system without getting left behind. The Michigan Supreme Court’s Justice For All Task Force is committed to working towards 100% access to justice in the civil system and I applaud the effort to make Michigan courts more accessible to all people statewide.

Kyra Harris Bolden
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Paul Hudson
Age: 40
Occupation: Lawyer
Municipality of residence: Kalamazoo
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: www.hudsonforjustice.com
Education: Cornell University, B.A. in Government and Philosophy, 2003; Georgetown University Law Center, J.D., cum laude, 2006
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: As a Supreme Court Justice, my top goal is to be the fiercely independent, nonpartisan, and fair-minded judicial umpire that Michigan voters deserve. A good judge, much like a good umpire, doesn’t make up the rules or change them mid-game. A good judge just calls balls and strikes, faithfully applying the rules as written - fairly, consistently, and without favoring one side or the other.

Kerry Lee Morgan
Age: 67
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Redford Township
For how long: 40years
Online campaign information: https://www.martindale.com/attorney/kerry-lee-morgan-2161158/
Education: Michigan State University, B.A.; Regent University, M.A.; Detroit College of Law, J.D.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The Supreme Court needs Justices who will apply the law as written, not as it should be written in the mind of the Judge. The restoration of this purpose is my top goal.

Brian Zahra
Age: 62
Occupation: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court
Municipality of residence: Northville Township
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: Zahra4Justice.com
Education: JD, University of Detroit School of Law (1987); BGS, Wayne State University (1984)
Previously and currently held elected offices: Justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, January 14, 2011 to present. Elected in 2012, re-elected in 2014. Judge of the Michigan Court of Appeals, December, 1998 to January 13, 2011. Elected in 2000, re-elected in 2006. Judge of the Wayne County Circuit Court, December 1994 to December 1998. Elected in 1996.
Top goals: Continue to be a voice for judicial restraint, an advocate for the separation of constitutional powers, and a defender of our state and federal constitutions. Administratively, I will continue my work as Co-Chair of the Access to Justice Commission. There is no right to a lawyer in civil cases. Nonetheless, these cases involve issues critically important to Michigan families. The legal profession must step up to provide guidance to those unable to obtain legal assistance.

 

 

Judge of Court of Appeals — 2nd District (Partial Term)
Two candidates are running for one partial term ending Jan. 1, 2027. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.

Sima Patel
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Michael Warren
Age: 55
Occupation: Judge, Oakland Circuit Court
Municipality of residence: Beverly Hills
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.JudgeMichaelWarren.com
Education: Wayne State University, BA Honors History (1989); University of Michigan Law School, JD (1992)
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Board of Education (1999-2002); Judge, Oakland County Circuit Court (2002-present)
Top goals: For decades Judge Michael Warren has been tenaciously fighting for justice, the rule of law, fairness, and the Constitution. He has tried over 360 jury trials and was named Judge of the Decade. Endorsed by Sheriff Mike Bouchard (R), Sheriff Anthony Wickersham (D), and the Police Officers Association of Michigan; he co-founded Patriot Week with his then 10 year old daughter (www.PatriotWeek.org). His leadership and experience will strengthen Mic