Southfield Sun | Published July 13, 2022
In the Southfield Sun’s coverage area, voters on Aug. 2 will select candidates to represent their respective parties in the general election on Nov. 8
Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim.
Profile forms were not sent to candidates who are running unopposed.
Governor of Michigan
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and six candidates, including a write-in candidate, are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one four-year term in November. The salary for the position is $159,300 plus benefits.
Democrat
Gretchen Whitmer
Running unopposed.
Republican
Tudor M. Dixon
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Ryan D. Kelley
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Ralph Rebandt
Age: 64
Occupation: Retired Pastor
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 35 years
Online campaign information: ralphrebandtforgovernor.com
Education: B.R.E., M.A.R., M.Div.
Previously and currently held elected offices: No
Top goals: We are in a social and moral crisis. My goal is to bring back our Jude’s-Christian values, and together with truth, transparency, and accountability: ensure constitutional protections; make Michigan an open record state; secure election integrity; provide school choice; reduce taxes and budget; eliminate corporate welfare and reduce government agencies by involving faith based organization’s; and establish a Citizens Round Table.
Republican
Kevin Rinke
Age: 61
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Bloomfield Hills
For how long: Michigan born and raised. I built my home in Oakland County, was raised in
Wayne County and worked in Macomb County.
Online campaign information: https://rinkeformichigan.com/
Education: Bachelor’s in Advertising with a minor in Statistics from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: As governor, I aim to make Michigan the best state in America. To do so, we must emulate what other successful states have done. I have called for the elimination of the state income tax by January 1, 2024. I want to create an economic climate that incentivizes businesses and workers to come to Michigan. I want to fix our education system, add vocational training to the common curriculum and get Michigan back on track.
Republican
Garrett Soldano
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
James Craig (Write-in)
Age: 65
Occupation: Served as Chief of Police in Portland, ME; Cincinnati, OH; and Detroit, MI. After eight years as Chief of Police in his hometown of Detroit and 44 years as a dedicated public servant, Craig retired in June 2021. After twenty-eight years with Los Angeles Police Department, the Chief rose through the ranks to Captain Three. 2 1/2 years as a Detroit Police Officer before being laid off.
Municipality of residence: Detroit, Michigan
For how long: Professional experience 44 years
Online campaign information: www.chiefjamescraig.com
Education: Craig graduated from Cass Technical High School in 1977, Obtained an undergraduate degree from West Coast University BS in Business and a master’s degree from the University of Phoenix in Public Administration, James Craig, started coursework in a Doctorate program UOP; however, he had to stop the program when appointed Police Chief in the city of Detroit.
Previously and currently held elected offices: NONE.
Top goals: James Craig is running for Governor of Michigan with a commitment to fix leadership in state government and institute an effective administration that fosters a collaborative environment to drive the vibrancy of the state’s economy, education, public safety, and communities. I will work to WIN as a write-in candidate.
U.S. House of Representatives District 12
Four candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and three candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Members of the U.S. House of Representatives earn a salary of $174,000.
Democrat
Kelly Garrett
Age: 52
Occupation: Mayor of Lathrup Village and a State Director for a National Nonprofit Organization
Municipality of residence: Lathrup Village
For how long: 15 years in Lathrup Village; 35 years in Southfield
Online campaign information: www.voteforkellygarrett.com
Education: Bachelor of Business Administration in Management from Rochester University and a Master of Information Systems from University of Phoenix
Previously and currently held elected offices:
- City Council - 2011 to Current
- Mayor Pro tem - 2013 to 2017
- Mayor - 2017 to Present
Top goals: Mayor Kelly Garrett’s first goal is to reduce Inflation but also want to address these critical issues important to citizens of the 12th District.
· Families & seniors making tough decisions about the rising costs of healthcare including prescription drugs.
· Small business owners trying to stay open post COVID.
· Cities in the 12th District getting their fair share of federal funding.
· Gun violence sweeping through our communities.
· Keeping jobs in Michigan.
· Affordable and Quality Education for everyone.
Democrat
Rashida Tlaib
Age: 45
Occupation: U.S. Congresswoman
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 45 Years
Online campaign information: www.rashidaforcongress.com
Education: Wayne State University BS 1998 in Political Science and JD in Law 2004 from Thomas M. Cooley Law School.
Previously and currently held elected offices: U.S. Congress 2019-Present, MI State Representative 2009-2015
Top goals: I have six top priority issues that are grounded in the work I’ve done since entering congress. Racial and Immigration Justice, Economic and Housing Justice, Healthcare for All, Human Rights around the world, Environmental justice, and LGBTQ/Woman’s rights Justice.
Democrat
Janice Winfrey
Age: 64
Occupation: Presently Detroit City Clerk
Municipality of residence: City of Detroit
For how long: Life-Long Resident
Online campaign information: www.janiceforcongress.com
Education: · Bachelor of Science, Public Administration/Management
· Cass Technical High School
· Certifications/License:
· Certified, Elections Administrator, State Bureau of Elections
· Certified: Leadership and Achievement, National League of Cities
· Election Center Training Program, Washington, D.C.
· Mathematics Teacher, Detroit Public Schools
Previously and currently held elected offices: Presently Detroit City Clerk
Top goals: If elected, I will work to ensure that the interest of each citizen is at the forefront of all policy and legislation. I will pass laws broadening, not restricting, the right to vote; address global warming by reducing dependence on fossil fuels; pass laws protecting a woman’s right to choose and protect the lives of innocent citizens to gun violence by limiting who can be in possession of a firearm.
Democrat
Shanelle Jackson
Age: 42
Occupation: Senior Manager, State Government Affairs
Online campaign information: https://shanelle.us/
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: Lifetime Resident
Education: B.S. Political Science- University of Michigan
M.A. Social Justice- Marygrove College
Previously and currently held elected offices:
State Representative, Ninth District
Top goals: My most immediate priority as a Member of Congress will be to work with the Biden Administration and the Federal Reserve to help stop inflation to reduce the cost of living for all Michiganders. Secondly, I will work to find permanent solutions to sure up Medicare and Social Security for our seniors, and I will partner with both republicans and democrats in the Michigan Delegation to get this done.
Republican
Hassan H Nehme
Age: 32
Occupation: Local Business Owner, Contracting company specializing in abstract interior paint designs
Municipality of residence: Dearborn Heights
For how long: 16 years before the service and working out of state for 4 years and moved back 2 years ago
Online campaign information: HassanNehme.com
Education: Currently working on my behavioral science degree, United States Army combat medic, licensed in contracting, real estate, automotive dealer. Emergency medical technician certification.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate for Wayne County
Top goals: Our current representation forgot they were appointed to represent the constituents of their districts, not to have unquestionable loyalty to their political party. My goal is to bring the power back to the people, putting their interests above all else. Draft process guaranteeing parents involvement in any curriculum changes, any changes then must be voted on before implementation, defend medical freedom, reform mail-in ballot process, secure the southern border, defend and preserve our constitution.
Republican
Steven Elliott
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
James Hooper
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
State Senate District 7
Two Democrats are running to compete for one four-year term in November. Corinne Khederian is running unopposed on the Republican side. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.
Democrat
Ryan Foster
Age: 42
Occupation: American health plans/ sales
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: Born and raised
Online campaign information: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RF75OhS_Txg
Education: Ferris State 2002 BA History
Previously and currently held elected offices: NA
Top goals: Increase spending in k~5 education. Lower taxes for small businesses and focus on cutting Michigan’s budget to address states debt.
Democrat
Jeremy Moss
Age: 36
Occupation: State Senator
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 36 years
Online campaign information: votejeremymoss.com
Education: BA in Journalism, Additional Major in Political Science from Michigan State University; Studied Race Relations in South Africa through MSU; Graduate of the Michigan Political Leadership Program.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council (2011-2014), State Representative (2015-2018), State Senator (2019-present)
Top goals: -- Protecting your right to vote: I’m leading the fight against Senate Republican bills that could restrict access to your ballot.
-- Standing up for reproductive rights: I’m working with urgency to end Michigan’s 1931 abortion felony law. For my advocacy on choice, I am Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan’s only endorsed candidate.
-- Demanding action on common-sense gun reform: I introduced legislation to strengthen background checks and other proven measures to reduce gun violence.
State House of Representatives District 5
Five candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and two candidates are running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Reggie Reg Davis
Age: 51
Occupation: Retired Radio Broadcaster/Former Wayne County Commissioner Detroit
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: 51 years
Online campaign information: ReggieRegDavis.com
Education: Wayne State University (’89 – ’91) Oral Roberts University (’91 –’92) Major: Broadcast Journalism
Previously and currently held elected offices: Detroit Charter Commissioner – (2009 – 2012), Detroit Deputy District Manager 2014 – 2018), Wayne County Commissioner (208 -2019)
Top goals: I lost my 19-year-old younger brother to gun violence, I am the President of CeaseFire Youth Initiative, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving young lives. I am also the author of the “Bullet Bill”, which gained national attention and garnered a unanimous vote of support by Detroit City Council. I am totally prepared to take on the necessary leadership with the anti-gun violence movement in Michigan and I ask for your vote on August 2.
Democrat
Steele P. Hughes
Age: 32
Occupation: Constituent Services Director for State House District 10
Municipality of residence: Wayne County
For how long: 9 years
Online campaign information: www.strongerwithsteele.com
Education: Northwood University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals: My top priorities will be education, specifically focusing on the literacy issues that is quietly attacking our State. Updating our communities underground Infrastructure, Reforming our Juvenile Justice System, improving our crumbling Foster Care system and repealing the Sr. Pention tax are my top goals/priorities once elected.
Democrat
Ksenia Milstein
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Democrat
Natalie Price
Age: 40
Occupation: Berkley City Councilmember
Municipality of residence: Berkley
For how long: 7 years
Online campaign information: www.votenatalieprice.com
Education: MA, English Studies. University of Exeter (UK) 2006. BA, English and Classics. Vassar College 2004.
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was elected to Berkley City Council in 2019, and I continue to serve in this role.
Top goals: As a progressive democrat, former teacher, city councilmember, and mom, my priorities include:
• Creating inclusive communities and securing them with better gun laws
• Leveling the playing field with equitable education funding models
• Supporting essential services and infrastructure by boosting municipal funding
• Fighting for our most basic rights including safe and legal abortion care
We are all connected, and when we work together to lift up every resident, our whole region benefits.
Democrat
Michelle Wooddell
Age: 47
Occupation: Associate Professor, Grand Valley State University ; Founder and Principal, The Nonprofit Spot, LLC
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 5 years
Online campaign information: www.votemichelleformi.com
Education: BA, The University of Michigan; MPA, New York University; PhD, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: I have never held public office.
Top goals: My goal is to ensure that everyone in our district has the opportunity to pursue their best life. For some, that may mean quality schools that prepare their children for the future. For others, that may mean help building their small business or support to stay in their home as they age. For everyone, I think It means that Michigan’s mental health system is stronger, gun safety measures are adopted and our rights are protected.
Republican
Keith Albertie
Did not return questionnaire by press time.
Republican
Paul Taros
Age: 65
Occupation: Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Birmingham
For how long: 25 years
Online campaign information: TimeForTaros.com
Education: BBA University of Michigan, MBA Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: The education of our children is the State’s most important job. We need to get back to teaching our children how to think, not what to think. Our children need a safe learning environment. A refocusing of our efforts to teaching STEM curriculum is needed. Vocational and skilled trades should be added to the high school curriculum. If Michigan is going to compete on the world stage, we need the best educated students.
State House of Representatives District 18
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Jason Hoskins
Age: 38
Occupation: Southfield City Councilman/Legislative Director — Office of State Sen. Jeremy Moss
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 8 years
Online campaign information: votejasonhoskins.com
Education: Bachelors in Political Science — Eastern Michigan University; Master’s in Public Administration — Eastern Michigan University, Juris Doctor — University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council 2019-Present
Top goals: Address rising cost and inflation and that many Michiganders are struggling with right now. I want to increase state revenue sharing and change the state infrastructure funding formula which will result in more critical funding for our road, water and energy infrastructure. Protect and enhance our right to vote, right to reproductive freedom, and remove biases from our criminal justice system.
Democrat
Caprice A. Jackson
Age: 25
Occupation: Full Time Candidate
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 4 years
Online campaign information: www.capricejackson.com
Education: Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: If elected, I am focused on ensuring that every voice is heard in my community. In my various roles at every level of government, it has been my duty to bring resources and sensible solutions to Michigan residents. I will continue to fight for investing in mental and behavioral health, providing fair and equitable housing for all, strengthening our economy and providing pathways to employment, reforming our criminal justice system, repealing the senior pension tax (...)
Republican
Wendy Webster Jackson
Running unopposed.
State House of Representatives District 19
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Running unopposed.
Republican
Anthony Paesano
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 17
Two candidates are running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete in November for a two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Yolanda Smith Charles
Age: 42
Occupation: Business Owner, Realtor, Full Stack Instructor
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 40 years+
Online campaign information: voteyolanda.org
Education: Bachelor of Science, Master’s of Education
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current Oakland County Commissioner, District 17
Top goals: 1. Economic and Workforce Development 2. Accessibility in our services for all members of the community. 3. Transparency in government
Democrat
Lloyd C. Crews
Age: 47
Occupation: College Professor (Oakland Community College)
Municipality of residence: Southfield
For how long: 10 years
Online campaign information: voteforcrews.com
Education: BA/MA Political Science - Clark Atlanta University : Ph.D. Educational Leadership and Policy Studies - Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Southfield City Council since 2014
Top goals: I want a sustainable Oakland County. This is the integration of environmental health, social equity, and economic vitality, by creating employment and mentoring programs for our youth. And to ensure our seniors have affordable housing and services. Secondly, I’m in support of the ideas of DEIJ. Lastly, I want to ensure that the county engages in Community Benefits Agreements. This will specify the benefits the developer will provide in exchange of its proposed development.
Republican
Aaron Tobin
Running unopposed.
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 18
One candidate is running for the Democratic nomination and one candidate is running for the Republican nomination to compete for one two-year term in November. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Janet Jackson
Running unopposed.
Republican
Kat Phillips
Running unopposed.