Skip to main content

November 2026 General Election Voter Guide

Page 1

GENERAL ELECTION

VOTER

GUIDE NOVEMBER

SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF DOWNTOWN NEWSMAGAZINE


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills

U.S. HOUSE / DISTRICT 11 / DEMOCRAT JEREMY MOSS

Jeremy Moss of Bloomfield Township has a degree in journalism from MSU. He is currently a member of the Michigan Senate and has served in the state House and on the Southfield City Council. His is active in party organizations, Temple Beth Ahm and the Unity Fund. Israel – Hamas war There is debate about what the ongoing role of our country should be in the Israel – Hamas war. Some critics are now calling for a limit on the offensive weapons we ship to Israel, often times with no advance approval from Congress. Should we be restricting our involvement? With the return of the remaining Israeli hostages and the agreement of a ceasefire, the US must play an active role to chart a path for two peace-seeking states to live sideby-side. Israel, the US, the UN and other partnering organizations on the ground must work together to expand access and deliver the humanitarian aid in Gaza. Israel is an allied democracy in the Middle East. Both Americans and Israelis are working through democratic means to move past the TrumpNetanyahu era. The allyship between countries must be able to endure and United States must support Israel’s long-term security despite individual administrations and government coalitions.

Russia. But the current administration seems to have shifted its focus to the war we started with Iran. Do you favor continued support for Ukraine? The United States must stand firmly with its allies, including continued support for Ukraine in its defense against Russian aggression. Both the United States and the European Union cannot cede a position of strength to adversaries like Russia and China that creates instability in the West. At the same time, Congress must exercise its constitutional war powers and ensure that America does not stumble into unnecessary or endless conflicts elsewhere. We can support Ukraine while also pursuing diplomacy, preventing escalation in the Middle East, and focusing on a foreign policy rooted in strategic alliances, democratic values, and long-term American security interests. Iran war Do you support the current war with Iran? If it continues, should the president seek approval from Congress under the War Powers Act? Previous US intervention in the Middle East still casts a long shadow. I came of age protesting a war led by a President who declared ‘Mission Accomplished’ too early, had no real plan to win the peace, took a brutal toll on US service members and civilians on the ground, and isolated America from the world. Donald Trump is even less prepared to lead military engagement in the Middle East and is about to enter a fourth month of a war he does not know how to get out of. Congress must reassert its constitutional role under the War Powers Act to ensure that decisions about military engagement are made deliberatively, transparently, and with meaningful oversight. We must prevent this President from entangling the United States in needless or unauthorized military interventions. ICE and immigration

Ukraine support The U.S. has been a major financial supporter of Ukraine in its war with 68

Do you support the current administration’s goals on immigration enforcement? Is there

a need for reform of ICE officers and, if so, what do you recommend? Lastly, would you support further discussion of reform for the path to citizenship for those immigrant’s currently in this country rather than just an emphasis on expulsion?

court, should be above basic transparency and accountability. I support enforceable ethics rules, a code of conduct, and required financial disclosures for Supreme Court Justices similar to the standards that already apply to every other federal judge.

The cruelty and chaos caused by ICE cannot be repaired or reformed under Donald Trump and the agency must be dismantled. Congress should demand transparency in federal immigration enforcement and hold those who acted illegally to account. We can both secure our border without allowing officers posing as masked vigilantes to erode due process and civil liberties. We need an interior agency with more rigorous training, increased oversight, and safer outcomes. Americans want an immigration system that is orderly, just and humane. We need to revamp the outdated visa system to balance our labor needs and those seeking economic opportunity. We must create legal pathways to citizenship for DACA recipients and for undocumented immigrants with long-standing ties to the US. Clearing up and reforming legal avenues for immigration will ease pressure at the border, reduce the number of people seeking asylum and illegal crossings, and strengthen our national security.

Housing demand Do you have any suggestions on how Congress should be addressing the current housing demand and the cost of housing for first time home buyers? Explain. In the Michigan Senate, I led a bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, local communities, homebuilders and non-profits to draft new laws that incentivize creating more housing at attainable prices. Our legislation alleviates property taxes for residents to make needed home improvements and for developers to put blighted properties into proper use as new homes. These laws have infused our market with needed affordable housing and rehabilitated neighborhoods. We also enacted more incentives and savings for first-time home-buyers. Our federal government must find similar innovative solutions to reduce costly hurdles to homeownership and I look forward to continuing this critical work in Congress.

Supreme Court concerns

Your top priorities

Would you support a constitutional amendment that imposes some type of term limits on U.S. Supreme Court justices? Would you support a set of enforceable ethics restrictions on Supreme Court justices, similar to the 1973 code of conduct that now applies to all federal judges? Would you support expansion of the number of Supreme Court justices?

Name your top three-five priorities if you are elected in November.

Michigan imposes age limits for judges on our courts, including the Justices on our State Supreme Court. I am in support of instituting age or term limits on the US Supreme Court. Members of this particular court have eroded our fundamental rights, appeared to bow to the whims of the President, and faced questions of ethical breeches. I believe no public official, especially on our highest

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

We’re living through an affordability and democracy crisis fueled by Donald Trump’s chaos and recklessness. As chairman of the Michigan Senate Elections Committee, I’ve become an expert on election law. I’m prepared to get into this fight to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, confront and defeat the SAVE Act, and stop Donald Trump from federalizing our elections. On costs, Congress must overturn the devastating impacts of Trump’s big awful bill that have increased costs on Michigan families. Too many Michiganders are one medical emergency away from financial ruin and we must fight to ensure every American can CONTINUED ON PAGE 69 >>> 10.26


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills

U.S. HOUSE / DISTRICT 11 / REPUBLICAN U.S. HOUSE DISTRICT 11 / DEMOCRAT

ETHAN BAKER

access affordable healthcare. And finally, Donald Trump is out of control. Across the country, MAGA Republicans are targeting voting rights, LGBTQ rights, abortion rights, public education, and so much more. In Congress, I will fight to protect civil rights and stand up to hate and political extremism. Why vote for you Why should a November voter select you over another candidate? I have a record of taking on Michigan’s biggest challenges. As Chairman of the Senate Elections Committee, I combatted election conspiracies in Michigan, implemented early voting, and expanded access to absentee ballots. As Michigan’s first out gay Senator, I added LGBTQ protections in our state’s civil rights law. And I was a founding member of our Legislature’s Gun Violence Prevention Caucus that led to the first gun safety laws in Michigan in a generation. With the stakes this high, Oakland County needs a tested leader to deliver results for those who need it most. That’s why I’m endorsed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer and more than 60 elected officials in the district. This is a critical moment in our country and I am a part of a new generation of leaders stepping up to take action and fight back.

Ethan Baker, an attorney, resides in Troy. He holds a BA in Political Science, a law degree and a masters of Public Affairs. Baker has been a member of the Troy City council and currently serves as mayor .He is a member of the Great Lake Fishery Commission and a member of the U.S. Conference of Mayors Leadership Advisory Board. Israel – Hamas war Israel is an important ally of the United States, and we need to stand by our allies. But for me, the starting point is always going to be the same: what best protects America, Americans, and our national security? I also believe Congress has a responsibility to provide real oversight when American weapons and taxpayer dollars are involved. We can support Israel while still asking tough questions and demanding accountability. And I think we have to remember that our district is home to people with very different experiences and deeply held views on this issue. I’m going to listen to all of them. People deserve to know their representative hears them and will put America’s safety and interests first. Ukraine support Yes, I support continued American support for Ukraine. That doesn’t mean our support should be unlimited or without accountability. Congress should know where American taxpayer dollars and resources are going and make sure our allies are also doing their part. Working toward a lasting peace is in America’s national security interest.

downtownpublications.com

Iran war

Housing demand

I think it would be irresponsible for me to pretend I have access to all of the national security and intelligence information necessary to make a fully informed judgment about the war with Iran. I do believe we must ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon and that America and our allies are protected. At this point, Congress absolutely needs to have a role. These are incredibly consequential decisions involving American lives, our military, and our national security. I also believe that’s consistent with what people in our district expect. They want a strong America that can defend itself, but they also expect transparency, accountability, and Congress to do its job.

Housing has simply become too expensive, especially for young people and first-time homebuyers who are wondering if they’ll ever be able to afford a home. I’ve spent a lot of time working on this through the U.S. Conference of Mayors, and one of the best parts of that work is getting to talk with mayors from all over the country and hear what’s actually working in their communities. I think Congress can learn from that. We need more housing, fewer unnecessary barriers that drive up the cost of building, and more private investment. But Washington doesn’t have to dictate every answer. I’d rather listen, find the ideas that are actually working, and help give our local communities the tools and flexibility to put those ideas to work.

ICE and immigration I believe our immigration laws need to be enforced. And I also believe ICE needs reform, not abolition. There’s a real difference between keeping dangerous criminals out of our country and creating fear among immigrant families who are here legally and have done everything we’ve asked of them. As mayor of Troy, I represent a city where approximately 31 percent of our residents are foreign-born. That diversity is one of our greatest strengths, and I see its value every day. There’s no question our immigration system is broken. As Congress considers what comes next, including what happens to people already living here, I’ll listen carefully to the people of our district. We need solutions that enforce our laws, protect our communities, and treat people with dignity and respect.

My first priority is always going to be listening to the people I represent. That’s how I’ve approached being mayor and Chair of the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and it’s how I’ll serve in Congress. The people of the 11th District should help drive my priorities. What I hear most is that people want an economy that works for them with lower costs, good-paying jobs, and more manufacturing and skilled trades here in Michigan. They want better access to mental and physical healthcare, and strong local schools that focus on literacy and involve parents. They want to feel safe at home and know our country is secure. And they want responsible growth that protects our communities and our Great Lakes.

Supreme Court concerns

Why vote for you

I think there’s value in the stability and independence of the Supreme Court, even when we don’t always agree with its decisions. As such, I’m not supportive of term limits for Supreme Court justices, or adding more justices to the court. I do think strong ethics rules are important. I’ve worked hard for ethics and transparency during my time as mayor because I believe people should be able to trust their government and the people who serve in it. The same basic principle applies here. I’m always willing to look at reasonable ways to strengthen accountability and public confidence, but I don’t think fundamentally changing the makeup of the Supreme Court is the answer.

I’m running for Congress because, on a human level, it’s not healthy for us to be this divided. Most of us want the same basic things: stability for our families, security and respect in our individual lives, opportunity for our kids and grandkids, safe communities, and a future we can feel confident in. The challenges we face are too important to be handled through division alone. As mayor of Troy, working with mayors across the country, and leading efforts to protect the Great Lakes, I’ve proven we can listen, treat each other with respect, and work together. That is the better way and the kind of leadership I’ve brought as mayor and as chair of the GLFC, and that’s what I’ll bring to Congress.

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

Your top priorities

69


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills

STATE SENATE / 7TH DISTRICT / DEMOCRAT Data Center Farms

JASON HOSKINS

Jason Hoskins of Southfield has a BS degree in political science and a master in public administration from EMU and a law degree from University of Detroit Mercy. He is currently a member of the Michigan House of Representatives and was a member of the Southfield City Council. He is a member of the ACLU, Sierra Club and the local party organization. Government transparency Michigan is one of only two states where the state legislature and administration are not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests. Although Governor Whitmer has promised in 2018 to extend the FOIA to cover her office and the legislature and the senate pass legislation in 2025, the House has still left these bills in the House Government Operations Committee with no movement. Do you support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of state government? I strongly support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of the government for the state of Michigan. Reforms such as allowing for FOIA requests within our state government would bring Michigan in line with over 40 other states throughout the country that have already implemented these standards. Michiganders have enjoyed the right to submit FOIA requests to their city council, public schools, public universities, and state government agencies for years and I support extending that to the executive and legislators. 70

Large scale data centers have become an important issue in Michigan. Should the state be providing incentives to attractive large scale data centers? What regulations should be enacted to protect residents from possible increased electric rates and impact on water sources in the state? Lastly, there have been concerns that the state could intervene in the local approval process along the lines of what has been done on alternative energy projects in the state. Would you support the state taking more control of the local approval process? The expansion of data centers, especially “hyperscale” facilities, has become a serious and legitimate concern for residents across Michigan and the country. Whether you face daily economic pressures, care deeply about the environment, are skeptical of promises made by large tech firms, or believe in transparency in government contracting, there is good reason to be paying close attention to this issue right now. As elected officials at the state level, we have a responsibility to listen to these concerns and respond with policies that match the seriousness they deserve. As a candidate for state Senate, I support requirements that data center projects be built with union labor, subject to local hire requirements and job quality standards that guarantee a living wage. I will also support local investments in workforce development to ensure that communities hosting these facilities share in their economic benefits. Additionally, I will support banning non-disclosure agreements between tech companies and local governments. The costs and impacts of these facilities cannot be hidden from the very communities that they affect. We must also ensure that data center developers pay their own way. Ratepayers should not face higher utility bills simply because a new data center comes to town. I support strong ratepayer protections that require data center developers, not consumers, to bear 100 percent of the infrastructure, generation, and transmission costs needed to serve their facilities. I also support strict environmental and labor standards for data center development. Developers should be required to fully disclose

water usage, adhere to rigorous efficiency and wastewater standards, and avoid sites that threaten aquifers, private wells, and sensitive ecosystems. They should also be required to achieve Energy Star, LEED, or equivalent certification, and to meet fair labor standards, prevailing wages, and safe working conditions. As a state Representative who has served a district slated for significant data center growth and as a former city councilman who has seen firsthand how important it is for local communities to retain control over decisions that affect them, I have a direct stake in getting this right. I strongly support preserving local control on this issue while significantly raising the regulatory floor for new data center development statewide. Economic incentive policy There has been ongoing debate in both parties in Lansing about past and current administrations’ economic development policies for attracting new business to the state. What is you position on the current economic development efforts? Last term, I had the privilege of chairing the House Economic Development and Small Business Committee, where I pursued a broader vision of what economic development in Michigan should look like. For me, economic development is not simply about offering incentives to corporations to relocate to our state. As chair, the most consistent message I heard from businesses of all sizes was that Michigan faces a significant workforce talent gap. Addressing that gap requires investing in the conditions that attract and retain talent: housing, childcare, transit, and a world-class education system. We also need to modernize our permitting processes and ensure that shovel-ready sites are available to developers and businesses looking to grow here. On incentives specifically: I believe Michigan should move away from its current incentive-heavy approach. Most states do not offer incentives at the rate Michigan does, largely because they have already built the underlying infrastructure that makes their state competitive. We should be doing the same. If we make Michigan a place where people genuinely want to live and work, we will not need to rely on financial

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

incentives as our primary recruitment tool. That is why last term I joined my colleagues in introducing the Make It In Michigan Fund, a proposal to transform Michigan’s existing SOAR Fund from a traditional incentive vehicle into a community-based investment accelerator focused on growing people and places, not just companies, while also including proposals for expanded housing and education funding. These are the investments that will make Michigan competitive for generations, not just for the next corporate announcement. New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts Michigan is facing major cuts to federal funds for Medicaid, thanks to the 2025 adoption of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. To counteract these cuts, Governor Whitmer had proposed increased taxes on tobacco and vape products and new taxes on digital advertising, which were ignored by legislators in recent budget sessions. Would you support similar tax proposals in the future? Why or why not? I support Governor Whitmer’s revenue proposals. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is projected to cause nearly 300,000 Michigan residents to lose Medicaid coverage beginning in 2027. This is a public health crisis that demands a serious state-level response. When the federal government cuts funding for programs that millions of Michiganders depend on, states must find creative solutions to fill the gap. While I do not support increasing the tax burden on everyday working Michiganders as a matter of general principle, the proposals Governor Whitmer has put forward are targeted and reasonable. Her Medicaid stabilization package raises revenue through increases on tobacco products, new taxes on vaping and non-tobacco nicotine products, a new tax on digital advertising, and updated tax structures on sports betting and online gaming. The proposals are predicted to collectively generate an estimated $780 million annually to offset lost federal dollars. These are not broad-based taxes on working families; they are targeted levies on industries and behaviors that carry their own public health costs. Protecting access to healthcare for our most vulnerable residents, CONTINUED ON PAGE 77 >>> 10.26


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE / 6TH DISTRICT / DEMOCRAT Data Center Farms

MELANIE MACEY

Melanie Macey of Royal Oak has a BS in political science, an MS in computer science and a law degree. She has served on the Royal Oak City Commission, the Royal Oak Library Board and the Royal Oak School District Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion council. Government transparency Michigan is one of only two states where the state legislature and administration are not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests. Although Governor Whitmer has promised in 2018 to extend the FOIA to cover her office and the legislature and the senate passed legislation in 2025, the House has still left these bills in the House Government Operations Committee with no movement. Do you support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of state government? Yes. I see no reason why I was subject to FOIA as a City Commissioner but would not be as a State Representative, where the decisions I make may affect millions of Michiganders. Michigan is one of the worst states in terms of government transparency, and exempting the legislature and governor from FOIA is one of the primary reasons for our low ranking. Voters deserve to know how decisions are made and who is influencing those decisions. I will proudly support efforts to extend FOIA to both the legislative and executive branches and strengthen transparency throughout state government.

downtownpublications.com

Large scale data centers have become an important issue in Michigan. Should the state be providing incentives to attractive large scale data centers? What regulations should be enacted to protect residents from possible increased electric rates and impact on water sources in the state? Lastly, there have been concerns that the state could intervene in the local approval process along the lines of what has been done on alternative energy projects in the state. Would you support the state taking more control of the local approval process? The widespread pushback against large-scale data centers from across the political spectrum demonstrates that Michiganders believe we have gone too far in chasing data center approval without considering the costs to local communities. We cannot participate in a race to the bottom only to find out that all the benefits are going to large corporations at the cost of Michiganders’ health and quality of life. In truth, we need to be addressing the overall impact of AI, as the insatiable demand for AI in all aspects of our lives is negatively affecting our world in far more profound ways than we are taking into account in the data center conversation. Leaving the development and regulation of AI in the hands of corporations that value making money above all other considerations is a dark prospect for our future. But, here we are. To answer the question about regulations, we need to consider how we can ensure data centers are not causing harm to our homes, families, and communities. It must be nonnegotiable that the data centers bear the cost of all electricity and water needs, that they reuse water and minimize usage, that they use renewable energy, and that the centers are built with union labor. There need to be agreements in place for ongoing regulation, including energy audits, water usage audits, environmental impact studies, and utility-rate monitoring, with the ability to shut it down if non-compliant. I do not support the state overriding local control in the approval process for data centers. If the project is truly beneficial, then I am confident local communities can support them

through open, transparent public approval processes. If they are not beneficial for local communities, I see no reason for the state to force them on a community. Economic incentive policy There has been ongoing debate in both parties in Lansing about past and current administrations’ economic development policies for attracting new business to the state. What is you position on the current economic development efforts? Michigan’s recent approach to economic development incentives has produced mixed results at best. We are not going to grow the Michigan economy by giving tax breaks and incentives to a small number of highly-profitable companies to open a few facilities in the hopes that the promised jobs materialize. The future of Michigan has to be a full reinvestment in people. A skilled workforce will attract business. Keeping our talented students in Michigan to develop their business ideas here will grow business. Rather than focusing on one-off incentive packages, we should invest in the fundamentals that benefit all Michiganders: education, infrastructure, housing, workforce development, and quality of life. Those investments will produce durable economic growth and make Michigan a place where both businesses and families want to stay.

remains an open question that makes it challenging to address, but preserving healthcare coverage must be a priority. If more state revenue is necessary, I would prefer approaches that ask the most profitable corporations to contribute more rather than relying primarily on taxes that disproportionately affect working families. That said, I would support reasonable revenue measures, including those previously proposed by Governor Whitmer, if the alternative is reducing healthcare access, cutting services, or forcing vulnerable residents to lose coverage. Financial disclosure Voters approved financial disclosure for all state office holders and candidates. Are you satisfied with the regulations developed by lawmakers or are there changes you think need to be made? Explain. The financial disclosure laws implementing the measure approved by voters were an important step forward, but there is room for improvement. I appreciated efforts by AG Nessel to close remaining loopholes, but some remain. In particular, I believe we should address the asset carousel problem by requiring spousal financial disclosure and should increase penalties for knowingly filing inaccurate or misleading reports. Transparency and accountability are essential to maintaining public trust.

New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

Validity of voting returns

Michigan is facing major cuts to federal funds for Medicaid, thanks to the 2025 adoption of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. To counteract these cuts, Governor Whitmer had proposed increased taxes on tobacco and vape products and new taxes on digital advertising, which were ignored by legislators in recent budget sessions. Would you support similar tax proposals in the future? Why or why not?

Did you accept the returns of the presidential election in 2020?

The Trump cuts to Medicaid threaten healthcare access for hundreds of thousands of Michiganders and place additional strain on hospitals and healthcare providers. We must increase spending on Medicaid and health care generally in light of the federal cuts. The duration of the cuts

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

Yes. Michigan’s 2020 election was secure, accurate, and thoroughly reviewed. Top three-five issues What are the top three-five issues you want to address if you are ultimately elected? Strengthening Public Education – Fully funding public schools, expanding student support services, investing in career and technical education, and ensuring every child has access to a high-quality education. Making Michigan More CONTINUED ON PAGE 72 >>> 71


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE / 6TH DISTRICT / REPUBLICAN STATE HOUSE 6TH DISTRICT / DEMOCRAT Affordable – Lowering the costs of housing, healthcare, childcare, and utilities while supporting fair wages and strong worker protections. Building Infrastructure and Sustainable Communities – Investing in roads, water systems, clean energy, public transit, and infrastructure that supports long-term economic growth and climate resilience. Growing Economy Through Workforce Development – Investing in workforce training, higher education, apprenticeships, and economic policies that help businesses succeed by investing in people rather than corporate giveaways. Protecting Democracy and Fundamental Rights – Defending voting rights, increasing government transparency, protecting reproductive freedom, and ensuring every Michigander’s voice is heard. Why vote for you Why should a November voter select you over another candidate? I bring a combination of experience, effectiveness, and commitment to public service that will allow me to make an impact from day one. For eight years, I served on the Royal Oak City Commission, where I worked through difficult issues, balanced competing interests, and delivered results for residents. As Policy and Government Affairs Director for Promote the Vote, I helped lead statewide efforts to protect voting rights, draft legislation, build coalitions, and advocate successfully for policies that expanded access to the ballot. I understand how government works at both the local and state levels, and I know how to bring people together to turn ideas into policy. Just as importantly, I am deeply committed to the values that brought me into public service in the first place: protecting democracy, defending fundamental rights, strengthening public education, safeguarding our environment, and creating economic opportunity for everyone. This is a critical moment for Michigan and for our country, where democracy itself seems to be at risk. I am ready to bring both the experience and the energy necessary to meet that moment and fight for the people I represent. 72

MIKE STEGER

benefits should come once the investments, hiring, and construction are fulfilled, and the firm is operational. With good intentions and $5 you can buy a cup of coffee. The state can reward outstanding results, and should, but we need to see it to believe it. New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

Mike Steger of Berkley earned a bachelor's degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara. His career experience includes working in business and managing Promethean Action. Steger has been affiliated with LaRouchePAC National Policy Committee and joined the presidential campaign of Lyndon LaRouche in 2004.

I wouldn’t support more taxes until we see what we really need. The work requirements are reasonable for people who are able bodied. The providers can still contribute to health coverage for those in need. And we have a number of problems with health care in Michigan. Pricing is going up very fast, independent practices are being shut down because of insurance and operational costs, and reimbursement levels from private insurance, compared to states like Indiana and Ohio, are very low in Michigan. So, we need to get the process running better, and see what’s needed in terms of funding.

need to expand energy supply and keep prices down. Without more baseload energy supply, Michigan’s economy cannot grow. Raise the median household income in Michigan from $72k to $81k, the national average, over the next ten years. America is building again and Michigan should be at the center of the manufacturing boom. Why vote for you Devotion. Hard work. Honesty. And a love of Michiganders. I’m fourth generation. Michigan is rich with potential, but we can’t build a future on marijuana and casinos. We need to grow again, invest in our people, and lead the revival of advanced manufacturing as the backbone of the Michigan economy.

Financial disclosure Government transparency Yes, I believe in full transparency of government. The government was established by the people, and is at the service of the population. Fully extend FOIA. Data Center Farms I believe the localities need to set the direction. The state can work with them where needed. I think every data center needs to bring power to the grid. The cost of electricity should go down for the local area. We can protect our water resources by insisting, in the contract, that closed loop cooling systems are mandatory. Data centers can be a windfall of investment for certain towns or cities, especially those which have lost other tax revenue and are struggling. They can lower property taxes, build better schools and facilities, and revive main streets. But the decision should remain in the hands of the local governments. Economic incentive policy You can’t hand money out and expect anything but poor results and outright corruption. Any

I think the disclosures are helpful. I think we need to get Michigan moving, building, and growing again. We have atrocious literacy levels, slow economic growth, an aging population, and rising electricity, health care, and housing prices. We are not in a good situation. We need to get Michigan back on a pro-growth agenda, where we have expanding resources and opportunities for young people and new companies. That’s the mission. Get literacy in the top tier, fix the roads, lower auto insurance rates, bring in new companies, and expand job opportunities, while we build more starter homes and make homes more affordable. Validity of voting returns Yes. Top three-five issues Literacy. 45 percent of our students right now can’t read by the fourth grade. We need all hands on deck. We need starter home construction. Zoning laws need to be changed, and banks need to be engaged. This will increase supply, and lower entry cost for new homeowners. We

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

10.26


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Birmingham, Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE / DISTRICT 19 / DEMOCRAT Data Center Farms New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

SAMANTHA STECKLOFF

Samantha Steckloff of Farmington Hills has a bachelor degree in political science. She is currently a member of the Michigan House and had served on the Farmington Hills City Council. She is active in local party organizations, along with the Michigan Fertility Alliance and Gilda’s Club of Metro Detroit. Government transparency Michigan is one of only two states where the state legislature and administration are not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests. Although Governor Whitmer has promised in 2018 to extend the FOIA to cover her office and the legislature and the senate passed legislation in 2025, the House has still left these bills in the House Government Operations Committee with no movement. Do you support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of state government? I support extending Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act to cover both the legislature and the governor’s office because transparency is essential to public trust. Michigan residents deserve to know how decisions are made and how their tax dollars are spent, and our laws should reflect that expectation. I’m committed to advancing reforms that increase accountability and bring Michigan in line with the vast majority of states.

downtownpublications.com

Large scale data centers have become an important issue in Michigan. Should the state be providing incentives to attractive large scale data centers? What regulations should be enacted to protect residents from possible increased electric rates and impact on water sources in the state? Lastly, there have been concerns that the state could intervene in the local approval process along the lines of what has been done on alternative energy projects in the state. Would you support the state taking more control of the local approval process? Michigan can attract data centers, but only when companies follow our environmental and energy regulations and work in true partnership with the communities they want to join. I support incentives only when projects protect residents from higher electric rates, safeguard water resources, and deliver real local benefits. I do not support taking siting authority away from local governments; communities must retain control over land use decisions, and every project should be required to meet Michigan’s standards before moving forward.

Michigan is facing major cuts to federal funds for Medicaid, thanks to the 2025 adoption of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. To counteract these cuts, Governor Whitmer had proposed increased taxes on tobacco and vape products and new taxes on digital advertising, which were ignored by legislators in recent budget sessions. Would you support similar tax proposals in the future? Why or why not? Yes, I have supported responsible revenue measures in the past, and I would consider similar proposals if they help protect Medicaid and ensure people can keep accessing the care they rely on. When federal cuts threaten our most vulnerable residents, the state has a responsibility to look at fair, sustainable options like tobacco, vape, or digital advertising taxes rather than cutting services. Financial disclosure Voters approved financial disclosure for all state office holders and candidates. Are you satisfied with the regulations developed by lawmakers or are there changes you think need to be made? Explain.

Economic incentive policy There has been ongoing debate in both parties in Lansing about past and current administrations’ economic development policies for attracting new business to the state. What is you position on the current economic development efforts? Michigan’s economic development efforts should focus on attracting new businesses while ensuring strong returns for workers and local communities. I support tools that help us compete nationally, but they must come with clear accountability, transparency, and measurable benefits like good paying jobs and long term investment. We should continue refining our approach to prioritize projects that strengthen local economies, support our skilled workforce, and deliver real value for taxpayers.

The new financial disclosure requirements are a meaningful improvement, and I’m glad Michigan voters pushed for greater transparency. As we implement the law, I’m open to refining it to ensure disclosures remain clear, useful, and accessible to the public. My priority is maintaining a system that strengthens trust in state government while respecting the intent of the voters. Validity of voting returns Did you accept the returns of the presidential election in 2020? Yes or no. Yes. I accepted the certified results of the 2020 presidential election, which were verified by state and federal authorities and upheld in courts across the country. The peaceful transfer of power depends on honoring certified outcomes, and

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

I believe respecting those results is essential to maintaining trust in our democratic institutions. Top three-five issues What are the top three-five issues you want to address if you are ultimately elected? My top three issues are education, health care, and infrastructure. For public education, I plan to continue strengthening higher education by building on Michigan’s free community college program, closing remaining affordability gaps, and increasing funding for dual enrollment and CTE programs. I will also continue programs like free breakfast and lunch and invest in the supports students need to succeed. In health care, I hope to advance legislation that increases drug transparency to help lower pharmaceutical costs, expand access to fertility care by removing financial barriers, bring down overall health care costs, and protect Medicaid and Medicare from cuts. On infrastructure, I will build on our road funding work by prioritizing investments in water infrastructure and modernizing the systems communities rely on every day. Why vote for you Why should a primary voter select you over another candidate? Primary voters should select me because I have a proven record of delivering results for the people of Michigan. With more than a decade of public service, I’ve helped secure major investments in education, expanded access to health care, and brought home funding to improve roads for Michiganders. I’ve consistently focused on solving problems and strengthening our communities, and my commitment to this district is long standing. I’m ready to continue that work with the same energy, accessibility, and accountability voters expect.

Republican opponent did not respond to several requests.

73


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE / DISTRICT 20 / DEMOCRAT NOAH ARBIT

state. Would you support the state taking more control of the local approval process?

Noah Arbit of West Broomfield has a bachelor degree from Wayne State in Comparison Politics and Jewish Studies. He has been a state Representative since 2023 and is the founder of the Michigan Jewish Caucus and a member of the West Bloomfield Diversity Task Force.

I support repealing the tax incentives for data centers, and I co-sponsored HBs 6135-6142, bills that would place stringent guardrails on data center development to protect our environment, workers, and local communities. I support keeping data center siting in the hands of local elected officials. While there are important use cases for AI, we are not resilient enough to assimilate those benefits without also succumbing to the worst externalities of AI. Outsourcing critical thinking and artistic endeavors to algorithms will impoverish humanity. Any massive construction project will bring jobs. But are we willing to support the total AI-ification of our economy? We weren’t ready for how social media upended news, culture, elections, social trust, and we’re not ready for how AI will turbocharge those phenomena. Slowing down is vital.

Government transparency

Economic incentive policy

Michigan is one of only two states where the state legislature and administration are not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests. Although Governor Whitmer has promised in 2018 to extend the FOIA to cover her office and the legislature and the senate passed legislation in 2025, the House has still left these bills in the House Government Operations. Committee with no movement. Do you support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of state government?

There has been ongoing debate in both parties in Lansing about past and current administrations’ economic development policies for attracting new business to the state. What is your position on the current economic development efforts?

Yes. Data Center Farms Large scale data centers have become an important issue in Michigan. Should the state be providing incentives to attractive large scale data centers? What regulations should be enacted to protect residents from possible increased electric rates and impact on water sources in the state? Lastly, there have been concerns that the state could intervene in the local approval process along the lines of what has been done on alternative energy projects in the 74

I believe the Whitmer Administration’s approach to economic development has been a failure, and relied too much on giving billions in taxpayer dollars to large corporations. Instead of paying companies to set up shop in Michigan, we should incentivize them by enacting policies that makes Michigan more competitive. That means: dramatically improving K-12 public education, expanding affordable childcare, investing in arts and cultural amenities in communities big and small, continuing our workforce development and training programs, and enacting a state-backed paid family leave policy. Michigan isn’t economically competitive because our state isn’t family-friendly, worker-friendly, or business-friendly enough. Those three goals must be part of a comprehensive agenda to compel not only innovative companies, but also the most talented and innovative entrepreneurs, to make Michigan home.

Michigan is facing major cuts to federal funds for Medicaid, thanks to the 2025 adoption of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. To counteract these cuts, Governor Whitmer had proposed increased taxes on tobacco and vape products and new taxes on digital advertising, which were ignored by legislators in recent budget sessions. Would you support similar tax proposals in the future? Why or why not? Sure, I would support those excise taxes, but I also think they are a bandaid. Michigan lawmakers should take a comprehensive review of our tax policy, and assess where we are taxing too much, and where we are taxing too little. What is clear to me as a legislator is that Michigan does not take in enough revenue to fund the quality of public services – such as health care, education, and roads – that the public demands. But, I would like to see the state become a far more efficient deliverer of those public services before going to taxpayers and asking for more money in taxes. I feel very confident that a future Governor Benson will work hard to reform executive branch departments and make them more efficient. The people of Michigan deserve a government ruthlessly and relentlessly focused on efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Financial disclosure Voters approved financial disclosure for all state office holders and candidates. Are you satisfied with the regulations developed by lawmakers or are there changes you think need to be made? Explain. I am generally satisfied by the level of disclosure required. While some finetuning of the law can be made, I believe the ultimate goal is to ferret out any potential conflicts of interest on the part of legislators, and I think the law reasonably accomplishes that. Validity of voting returns Did you accept the returns of the presidential election in 2020? Yes or no. Yes, and anyone who doesn’t is in a cult, not a political party. Top three-five issues

New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

you want to address if you are ultimately elected? My big three are combating hate and extremism, reforming Michigan’s mental health system, and strengthening consumer protection laws. After the attack on Temple Israel, I got to work on legislation to form an office of hate crime and political violence prevention within state government. I also have two awesome consumer protection bills; one bans surveillance pricing, which is a practice whereby companies use your personal data to charge you a higher price for the same item when shopping online. I also introduced the Click-to-Cancel Act, which compels companies to allow you to easily cancel online subscription services you no longer use. In my first term, I served as Vice Chair of the Behavioral Health Committee, and I am working on legislation and funding to ensure more kids, seniors, and everyone-in-between has access to mental health care. Why vote for you Why should a November voter select you over another candidate? Our country is under authoritarian assault, and West Bloomfield, Commerce, and the Lakes deserve a passionate, relentless leader who fights, not folds. A leader who takes on special interests and moves heaven and earth to fix the failures that hold us back. That’s the kind of leader I have been – and always will be. Over the past four years, I’ve been relentless and effective, authoring four bills signed into law, including my landmark Michigan Hate Crime Act, and cutting-edge legislation to protect our elections from AI-generated misinformation. I’m running to ban predatory surveillance pricing, to fix Michigan’s broken mental health system, to protect our environment and workers from rapacious AI companies, to combat hate and extremism, and to renew the promise of public education. I’ll always speak truth to power and stand up for my constituents – because I owe my fidelity to two things: my own conscience and the people I was elected to serve.

Republican opponent did not respond to several requests.

What are the top three-five issues DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

10.26


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills

STATE HOUSE / DISTRICT 54 / DEMOCRAT SARAH POUNDS

Sarah Pounds of Lake Orion has worked for over 20 years as a paralegal specializing in construction litigation. She holds a bachelors degree and a paralegal certificate. She has served on the Oakland County Trust Fund and the Oakland County Neighborhood Housing Development Citizen Advisory Committee, both Oakland County Board of Commissioners’ appointments. Government transparency Yes. Michigan families deserve to know how decisions that affect their lives are made, and it says a lot that we are one of only two states where our own legislature can hide from records requests. I support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover both the legislative and administrative branches of state government, and I would push to get these bills out of committee and onto the House floor instead of letting them stall for another session. Data Center Farms Data centers can bring real investment and jobs to Michigan, but they should not get a blank check. I support incentives only when they come with real conditions attached, including guaranteed local jobs, strong labor standards, strict water usage restrictions, and a requirement that the company, not Michigan families, pays for the energy and infrastructure its facility demands. downtownpublications.com

Families should never see their utility bill go up because a data center moved in down the road. I support requiring data centers to cover the true cost of the power and water infrastructure they use, keeping that cost off residential ratepayers, and putting real limits and disclosure requirements in place for how much water these facilities can draw, especially in communities already concerned about water availability. Local communities know their infrastructure, their water systems, and their neighborhoods best, and they deserve a real seat at the table when a data center wants to move in. Giving local communities a genuine say in where and how data centers are built is a core part of my platform, and I do not support stripping that voice away by handing the state final say over local approval for these projects. Economic incentive policy Too often, Michigan has handed out large incentive packages without enough to show for it. I support economic development, but it has to come with accountability. That means requiring companies receiving public incentives to create good jobs with wages that can support our families, meet strong labor standards, and pay the state back if they do not deliver. Every dollar of public investment should be tied to a measurable outcome for Michigan workers, not just a groundbreaking photo op. New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts The federal cuts coming out of the 2025 Big Beautiful Bill put health coverage at risk for families across our state, and I am not willing to let Michiganders lose their care because Washington walked away. I would support raising the tobacco and vape tax, which discourages a habit that drives up health costs in the first place, and I am open to a digital advertising tax that asks large technology companies, not working families, to help fill the gap. I do not support closing this shortfall by cutting services or shifting the cost onto families who are already struggling to keep up.

Financial disclosure Financial disclosure was an important step forward for Michigan, and I was glad voters demanded it. That said, I think the law lawmakers ultimately wrote is weaker than what voters actually asked for. I would like to see more specific dollar reporting instead of broad ranges, and I want to close the gaps that let real conflicts of interest go undisclosed. Transparency laws only work if they give the public real information, not just the appearance of it. Validity of voting returns Yes. Top three-five issues

community leadership, working through complex problems, building coalitions, and making real, measurable change. Through my work on the Oakland County Housing Trust Fund and Citizens Advisory Committee, I helped turn thirty million dollars in public funding into more than three hundred million dollars of investment and helped bring over eleven hundred mixed income homes to our community. That is not a talking point. It is a track record of getting practical results for families. I am running for the state House to bring that same results focused leadership to Lansing: lowering costs, strengthening our public schools, and fighting for the kind of practical, family-focused leadership Oakland County deserves.

Lowering costs for Oakland County families, including capping the price of insulin, inhalers, and other lifesaving prescription drugs and cracking down on price gouging by insurance and pharmaceutical companies. Expanding attainable housing so families, young people, and seniors can afford to live in the communities they grew up in. I plan on building on the work I have already done as a Board Member of the Oakland County Housing Trust Fund and Oakland County Citizens Advisory Committee. Fully funding our public schools, protecting universal free school meals, and expanding mental health services and career and technical education for our kids. Holding monopoly utilities and data centers accountable so Michigan families are not the ones covering the bill for rising electric rates and new infrastructure demands. Why vote for you I bring two things to Lansing that I don’t think we have enough of: realworld experience and the professional qualifications to turn that experience into results. I bring the perspective of a working parent raising four kids, balancing a career, school schedules, childcare, groceries, healthcare, and all of the everyday decisions families are making right now. And I bring nearly 20 years of professional experience, along with years of

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

75


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills

STATE HOUSE / DISTRICT 54 / REPUBLICAN Data Center Farms

ROMAN GASKEY

Roman Gaskey of Lake Orion has degrees from U of M in mathematics of finance and risk management and data science. He is employed as a strategy and product analyst with Altumatim. He is involved with a couple of local community groups plus is a committee member with the Oxford DDA. Government transparency Michiganders deserve more transparency when it comes to lobbyist and special-interest contacts with lawmakers and the governor, budget negotiations, earmarks, and “pet project” records. Extending the Michigan Freedom of Information Act to the legislature and governor’s office is an imperfect way to achieve this goal, because state-level FOIA statutes are specifically tailored to administrative agencies, not for the give-and-take of lawmaking and constituent work. Most states now apply their public records laws to the legislative branch in some fashion, but they pair that with carveouts to protect sensitive constituent information and candid internal deliberations. That’s the balance I’d look for here: we should open up calendars, lobbyist contacts, and spending records, while being careful not to expose private casework or turn staff level brainstorming into a chilling effect. So, I support the spirit of extending FOIA to cover the legislature and governor’s office. My decision to support specific legislation would depend on how it handles constituent privacy and legitimate deliberation. 76

Michigan should not be providing incentives to attract large-scale data centers. Data center developers are interested in our state because of our climate and access to water resources, so we have leverage to demand additional benefits from those seeking to build here. To prevent residential and small-business ratepayers from being forced to subsidize data centers, there must be a requirement that any data center builds out sufficient energy supply to cover all the potential demand for electricity it generates. Further, we must require utility companies to prove that any data center-related power agreement protects existing customers from stranded costs. The state should prohibit data centers from using fresh groundwater or municipal drinking water. Closed-loop cooling, water recycling, wastewater safeguards, and public reporting of water usage should be required. I am strongly opposed to the state taking more control of the local approval process. Local governments exist for a reason. Michiganders move to certain communities because they appreciate their unique character. Communities should have the authority to decide on significant changes that affect infrastructure, land use, and quality of life. When it comes to my district, Bloomfield Township has enacted a data center moratorium. I support their right to do that. If Lansing tries to override the decisions of the communities in my district, I will stand with my constituents and fight to protect local control. Economic incentive policy MEDC has failed Michiganders. Time and time again, recipients of economic development benefits do not create the number of Michigan jobs they promise, and they move economic activity out of Michigan the first chance they get. I want Michigan to compete aggressively for jobs, investment, and manufacturing. Instead, we reward political connections. Our state should be competitive for everyone, not just subsidized companies. Incentive design needs to be informed by accountability and results. For incentives tied to job creation, payroll growth, wage commitments, and workforce training, we should enact milestone requirements such that

payments are made only after specific targets are met. For projects requiring up-front capital, such as site readiness, infrastructure improvements, and strategic manufacturing, incentives need strong recapture provisions to repay our state should agreed-upon targets fail to be reached within a reasonable timeframe. We cannot continue a system where we socialize risk while privatizing profit. Michiganders deserve transparency, measurable results, and recourse when companies fail to deliver. New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts In my view, taxes on vices and unpopular goods and services are political gimmicks which generally fail. Without a broad base of goods, consumption taxes swing wildly based on consumer behavior and economic conditions, often capturing less revenue than projected. See the new twenty-four percent cannabis tax, for example. First and foremost, we must crack down on Medicaid fraud. Studies estimate that over six percent of Medicaid payments are improper. For our state, which often spends over $20 billion annually on Medicaid payments, this amounts to over $1 billion. To reduce this, we should implement existing tools powered by machine learning and AI to flag suspicious claims and correct improper billing. If more revenue is still necessary after reducing fraud, I would be open to targeted assessments on highly consolidated hospital systems or private-equityowned healthcare ventures if they are designed to address monopoly pricing and excessive facility fees—not to burden independent providers or increase patient costs. Financial disclosure I am always open to more transparency, but in general I am satisfied with the disclosure requirements. State office holders and candidates are required to report earned income sources over $1,000, employment-related agreements, assets held for investment valued at over $1,000, real property interests valued at over $1,000, securities/investments valued at over $1,000, and liabilities over $10,000 with certain exceptions. That said, I would be open to reasonable improvements, especially clearer

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

conflict-of-interest rules for when an official should recuse themselves from matters involving a direct financial interest, as well as stronger transparency around gifts, travel, and other benefits connected to lobbyists or groups seeking state action. Validity of voting returns We have a crisis of public trust in the results of our elections, and this is an issue I take very seriously. That’s why I support common sense measures such as voter ID and mandatory annual cleaning of the voter rolls. The fact that Democrat politicians are unwilling to support these measures creates an understandable distrust from many that bad actors are taking advantage of these gaps in the system. Top three-five issues Cost of living: We are in a cost-ofliving crisis. Whether it’s groceries, housing, childcare, healthcare, energy, or auto insurance, constituents of all backgrounds tell me they can’t keep up. I am focused on three expenses: housing, energy, and healthcare. For housing, we can financially reward municipalities for approving affordable single-family units, modernize the permitting process, and invest in training more skilled contractors. For energy, we can hold utility companies accountable for their performance—if they can’t improve service, then you get a rebate. And for healthcare, we can reform provider-insurer contracts to prevent monopolistic providers from preventing price competition. Economic opportunity: One of the biggest reasons I am running for office is to address the sad reality of so many young Michiganders leaving. We have top-tier trade schools and universities which produce capable professionals, but we don’t offer the opportunities available in other states after we invest ione-in, two-out rule— for every new regulation an agency creates, two must be consolidated or eliminated. That also means allowing people to keep more of what they earn by lowering taxes. Cutting the income tax will help young and working people, and we also need to cut property taxes to help homeowners and seniors. Government efficiency:Too much of your hardCONTINUED ON PAGE 77 >>> 10.26


GENERAL VOTER GUIDE | NOVEMBER 2026 STATE HOUSE / DISTRICT 54 / REPUBLICAN earned money is squandered on waste, fraud, and abuse. That’s why I support embracing technology to crack down on Medicaid fraud. As I discussed earlier, we should implement modern tools to flag suspicious claims and correct improper billing. Public safety: Our state and our country have some of the highest crime rates in the developed world. Part of this is due to underinvestment in law enforcement, which is why I strongly support our first responders. However, it’s not enough to intervene during or after a crime is committed—we also must address the root causes of crime in the first place. That means a focus on mental health. Inpatient capacity in our state is abysmal, so I support investing in humane inpatient facilities to help those who need more than outpatient care. Further, that means a focus on recidivism. Being tough on crime is good, but being smart on crime is even better. Artificial intelligence: The world is changing fast, and I am alarmed by our state having no plan regarding the integration of artificial intelligence into our economy. I have spoken to many state legislators, and there is a lack of knowledge and interest in this issue. Different legislators can’t even agree on what committee would oversee AI. I studied mathematics and data science, so I understand this technology in theory. Further, I work for an AI startup in the legal tech space, so I understand how it’s affecting our economy in practice. I will spearhead efforts to create a select committee on AI. Why vote for you Politics as usual hasn’t served our country, and it certainly isn’t serving our state. When I talk to voters, regardless of their ideology and background, they are tired of the same types of people backed by career politicians. I’m running because I believe the next generation needs to step up for the benefit of all Michiganders. You don’t fix a broken system by waiting to inherit it, you fix it by changing it. My values and experiences are deeply rooted in this district. I grew up in Orion and Oxford, attending Lake Orion schools K through 12. After graduating valedictorian of my class, I earned a degree in mathematics and data science from the University of Michigan. Most people in my position downtownpublications.com

would choose to leave Michigan for better opportunities, and, for a while, I assumed I would be one of those people. But when I thought hard about my passions and what really mattered to me, I realized I had to step up. It deeply bothered me how out-of-state students would be so negative about the state I grew up in, so I decided that instead of being part of the problem by leaving, I would be part of the solution. This election should be about who will best represent and deliver for the people of our district. I’m proud to be running a grassroots campaign powered by conservative activists and hardworking volunteers, not lobbyists. You deserve someone who takes public service seriously and honors the commitments he makes. I am not running for this office as a steppingstone, and I will not quit on the people I ask to represent. So, if you trust the status quo, then I may not be your candidate. But if you want someone who will work to reverse Michigan’s managed decline, bring smart solutions to Lansing, and fight for a future where young people, working families, and seniors can afford to stay in our state, then I’m asking for your vote.

STATE SENATE / 7TH DISTRICT / DEMOCRAT including children, seniors, and people with disabilities is not optional. I would support similar revenue proposals in the future to provide the state a viable path to Medicaid stability. Financial disclosure Voters approved financial disclosure for all state office holders and candidates. Are you satisfied with the regulations developed by lawmakers or are there changes you think need to be made? Explain. Michigan only recently passed its firstever disclosure law, and while it was a step forward, it does not go nearly far enough. We need to expand requirements to cover more appointed officials and department heads. We should broaden gift disclosure rules. Under the current law, officials are only required to disclose gifts that lobbyists are already required to disclose under state law. They are not required to disclose gifts from other sources, and would not be required to disclose the kind of secret junkets taken by former House Speaker Lee Chatfield, who is under criminal investigation for alleged financial impropriety. We also should significantly increase fines and penalties for failing to file or filing inaccurate disclosures. A law without real consequences is not much of a law at all. Some states have independent ethics commissions with subpoena power which may help with accountability. I also believe transparency itself is a form of accountability. When the public can see what financial interests officials hold and what gifts they are receiving, voters can draw their own conclusions at the ballot box. An informed public is the most powerful check on elected officials that exists. Top three-five issues What are the top three-five issues you want to address if you are ultimately elected? My top three policy priorities are economic opportunity and affordability, civil rights and equal protection, and strengthening democracy and public trust because these issues directly shape people’s daily lives and Michigan’s future. Affordability - First, I will fight for economic opportunity and affordability by addressing the rising costs of

DOWNTOWN NeWsmagaziNe

housing, healthcare, childcare, and everyday life while expanding access to good-paying jobs. I also want to expand public transit options here in Michigan. Michiganders deserve more than just getting by; they deserve real opportunities to build stable, successful lives. Protecting Civil and Human Rights - Second, I will champion civil rights and equal protection because everyone deserves dignity, safety, and fairness under the law. That means protecting LGBTQ+ rights, workers’ rights, reproductive freedom, and equal opportunity so that progress reaches every community. Strengthen Democracy Third, I believe we must strengthen democracy and restore public trust in government. At a time when too many people feel disconnected or disillusioned, we need transparent, accountable leadership that puts people over politics. That means defending free and fair elections, passing the Michigan Voting Rights Act, increasing government transparency, reducing the influence of special interests, and ensuring government delivers real results. Democracy works best when people trust that their voices matter and that elected officials are accountable to them. Why vote for you Why should a primary voter select you over another candidate? Whether it’s been as a state Representative, Southfield city councilman, or as a legislative staffer for almost 10 years, I’ve been delivering results bringing resources home – like the $25 million in appropriations I brought to my district, creating jobs – like when I created the Michigan Innovation Fund to help fund small businesses, and standing up for our rights when it mattered most – like when I banned conversion therapy in Michigan, protected IVF, helped expand the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act to cover the LGBTQ community and most recently introduced the Michigan Voting Rights Act in the Michigan House to help safeguard our democracy. Right now, too many people are struggling while some politicians play games. We need experienced leadership that knows how to get things done on day one. I’ve been in the room. I know how this works. I’m proven, tested, experienced and I know how to get the job done for my community. 77


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
November 2026 General Election Voter Guide by Downtown Publications Inc. - Issuu