Troy voters to decide local and state races
Troy Times | Published October 12, 2022
In the Troy Times’ coverage area, voters will choose candidates for local their school board, as well as governor and more Nov. 8.
Below are profiles submitted by the candidates. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goals if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim. Profiles do not appear for uncontested races.
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 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.
State House of Representatives District 57
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. State representatives earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Aisha Farooqi
Age: 38
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Sterling Heights
For how long: 21 years
Online campaign information: www.farooqifor57.com
Education: University of Detroit Mercy-School of Law (JD). University of Michigan-Dearborn (BA).
Previously and currently held elected offices: None.
Top goals: As an attorney and Sterling Heights Zoning Board of Appeals member, I know the importance of listening to the needs of the community. As your representative, I will be your voice in Lansing. My goals include:
• Creating good paying jobs and repealing the retirement tax
• Fully funding public education
• Investing in road and water infrastructure
• Safeguarding our freedom to make private healthcare decisions without government interference
• Supporting our local police and fire departments
Republican
Thomas E. Kuhn
Age: 71
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 21 years
Online campaign information: VoteTomKuhn
Education: BA, MA, Ph.D degrees (Political Science); JD (Law degree)
Previously and currently held elected offices: 12 years, City Commissioner; 12 years, Community College Trustee; 4 years, County Commissioner
Top goals: My top goals include K-12 educational reform, as well as support for increased funding for local police and infrastructure. School closures have left many of our children below grade level in basic reading and math skills. We need to make sure that no kids are left behind. Also, we need to significantly improve funding for our local police-- particularly retention, training and forensic work-- and improve funding for infrastructure—roads, sewers and water.
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.
State Senate District 9
Two candidates are competing for one four-year term in November. The salary for a state senator is $71,685.
Democrat
Padma Kuppa
Age: 57
Occupation: MI HD 41 Representative
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: www.electpadmakuppa.com
Education: Mechanical Engineer (BS) and Master programs in Computer Science and Engineering Design
Previously and currently held elected offices: Office Location Date(s) Election Result: MI HD-41, Lansing MI, 2018 to present (two terms) won both times;
Top goals: I am focused on investing in public education, and strengthening our economy by supporting small businesses and enacting policies to address worker shortages. We must protect our environment and our water: from clean, safe drinking water for all, to our Great Lakes, and ensure access to reproductive healthcare. We must educate all children, providing them opportunity and keep them safe from gun violence, and retrain workers for the changing dynamics of the 21st century.
Republican
Michael Webber
Age: 44
Occupation: Insurance Agent
Municipality of residence: Rochester Hills
For how long: 33 years
Online campaign information: www.electwebber.com
Education: BA in International Relations from Michigan State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Former State Representative 2015-2020, Former Rochester Hills City Councilman 2007-2014
Top goals: I share my neighbors’ frustrations. I am running to tackle the tough issues that lower the cost of living and help hard working people get ahead. We need to get our communities, schools, and jobs back on track. Parents know what’s best for their kids and they want to be empowered to ensure their children are getting a quality education. We must support our first responders, knowing that public safety improves our quality of life.
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 if elected: 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 Senate District 3
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. State senators earn a salary of $71,685.
Democrat
Stephanie Chang
Age: 38
Occupation: State Senator
Municipality of residence: Detroit
For how long: ~17 years
Online campaign information: www.stephaniechang.com
Education: BA in Psychology and Minor in APIA Studies, Master of Social Work, Master of Public Policy, University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Previously and currently held elected offices: State Representative (2015-18), State Senator (2019-present)
Top goals: I will continue to work for an economy that works for everyone, quality education for all our kids, preventing flooding in our neighborhoods and ensuring clean air and water, fixing our roads and bridges, housing justice, a strong and fair justice system, gun violence prevention, and protecting reproductive freedom.
Working Class Party
Linda Rayburn
Did not answer questions 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 2
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.
Democrat
Penny Luebs
Age: 68
Occupation: Social Worker
Municipality of residence: Clawson
For how long: 43 years
Online campaign information: Facebook: Penny Luebs Oakland County Commissioner
Education: Master’s Degree from Eastern Michigan University in Social Work. LMSW
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Commissioner, 2018 to present; Mayor, City of Clawson, 2007 - 2017; Council Member, City of Clawson, 2003-2007
Top goals: Maintain safe, friendly cities with great services. Support mental health in our schools and communities. Support seniors, infrastructure and the environment while maintaining a balanced budget. With the assistance of CARES and ARPA dollars, we directed grants to businesses, local groups, non-profits, seniors, veterans and children throughout the pandemic and now. I help people everyday. I’m committed to bringing people together to solve problems.
Republican
Ken Roberts
Age: 44
Occupation: Residential Remodeler
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: Roberts4commissioner.com
Education: School of Infantry USMC, Criminal Justice Assoc., Business Assoc.
Previously and current held elected offices: No office; Precinct delegate
Top goals: As a veteran and former first responder; Safety. Fund the police, fire and responders with the training they deserve. We call them when in need; support them. Fiscal responsibility is a must. In this economy, we can’t take money out of our households and seniors with fixed incomes on proposals that are not going to work. Food and gas prices are high enough at the moment; we need accountability on our tax dollars. Schools!
Oakland County Board of Commissioners District 3
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Oakland County commissioners receive a salary of approximately $36,000.
Democrat
Gary McGillivray
Age: 70
Occupation: Oakland County Commissioner
Municipality of residence: Madison Heights
For how long: Not given
Online campaign information: Facebook Page
Education: 2 years of College in Law Enforcement, many classes through Michigan Assc. Of Counties, Michigan Municipal League, Mparks and others.
Previously and currently held elected offices: Madison Heights City Councilman & Mayor 1983- 2009, Currently serving as Oakland County Commissioner 2009 – Present, Oakland County Parks Commission currently Chairman.
Top goals: I believe the top goal as a Commissioner is to be a good fiscal steward of your tax dollars. It will be important to provide good practices for increased economic development. It is important also for good service to all county residents and businesses. Getting past our COVID pandemic has been difficult, but I think we have done a good job to prevent recurrence of the past couple years.
Republican
Ronald Dwyer
Age: 48
Occupation: Business owner of RCS JANITORIAL, a multi-state operational janitorial company; Realtor 20+ Years; Insurance Agent 30+ years
Municipality of residence: Troy Homeowner
For how long: Troy for 27 years, Oakland County for 48 years
Online campaign information: ronforoakland.com
Education: Associates Degree Oakland Community College ; Insurance Degree American Institute of Insurance ; Licensed Insurance Agent, Licensed Realtor
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate 5 terms city of Troy
Top goals: 1) Protect our AAA bond rating. 2) Stop wasteful spending like $3 Million to the World Economic Forum which states we have too many automobiles and paying $25 Million to the Highland Park water bill. 3) Properly fund the Sheriff department and return it’s $1.5 million shortfall as crime is on the rise. 4) Protect parents’ rights. 5) Protect small business from interference by intrusive unconstitutional mandates. 6) Build a business-friendly Oakland. 7) Protect Oakland County Parks.
Troy Public Schools Board of Education
Five candidates are running for two six-year terms. Troy Board of Education members are paid $100 per year for the position.
Emina Alic
Age: 42
Occupation: Attorney
Municipality of residence: City of Troy
For how long: 30 years
Online campaign information: www.electEminaAlic.com
Education: University of Michigan Ross School of Business (’02); University of Illinois College of Law (’07)
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My goal is to continue providing a high-quality public education so all students can succeed in school and life. To do this, I will work to foster an environment where all students are supported in learning by providing the spectrum of necessary resources to offer students and staff a safe and supportive environment. Ensuring that teachers have the resources and developmental opportunities they need to support each student is among my top priorities.
Matt Haupt
Age: 37
Occupation: Senior Manager, Client Services (SXM Media / Pandora)
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 6 years
Online campaign information: https://www.electmatthaupt.com
Education: Juris Doctor (Wayne State University Law School), Bachelor’s Degree in Advertising Management (Michigan State University)
Previously and currently held elected office: None
Top goals: If elected, my goal is to partner with the district and community to ensure we deliver a world-class education for all our students and support them academically, emotionally, and socially. My priorities are to focus on the safety and well-being of our students, retain and attract highly qualified teachers, and give our teachers and all of our students the tools and resources to help them succeed. Let’s lead our district with empathy and partnership.
Daniel Mingee Kang
Age: 27
Occupation: Software Engineer
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: electmingee.com
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science from University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My priorities are improved curriculums, better mental health, and equitable conditions and services for all students. That being said, I am informally opting out and would like to give my support to the candidates Emina Alic and Matt Haupt.
Christopher Kus
Age: 43
Occupation: Engineer
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 12 yrs
Online campaign information: www.facebook.com/christopherkus4ourkids
Education: University of Michigan
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given
Top goals: I’m running for Troy school board with a focus on Academic Excellence, Parental Involvement and Fiscal Transparency. Parents chose Troy schools for the high standards in academics and high graduation rate. In the last few years we have seen the reputation of Troy schools decline and attendance drop. As board trustee, I plan to work hard listening to parents and teachers to solve issues and always focus on academics.
Jeff Schaeper
Age: 67
Occupation: Procurement
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 22 Years
Online campaign information: Jeff Schaeper for Troy School Board | Facebook
Education: BA – History Ohio State, BS – Accounting Ohio State, MBA Ohio State
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: To return Troy Schools to Academic Excellence. Test Scores (and enrollment) have fallen over time. The reading curriculum is a huge problem and needs to be replaced. Also, to be the voice of the parent on the School Board. When parents have raised issues to the board, they dismissed their concerns. Parents are a vital part of their child’s education and that needs to be respected. Vote Jeff Schaeper for School Board in November.
Judge of the 52nd District Court 4th Division
Two candidates are running for one six-year term. A district court judge earns $45,724 from the county and $108,065 from the state annually.
Tonya Clawson Goetz
Age: 50
Occupation: Prosecuting Attorney
Municipality of residence: Troy, Michigan
For how long: 15 Years
Online campaign information: www.Goetz4Judge.com
Education: 1994-1997-Boston University, Boston, MA, Juris Doctorate; 1990-1994-Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY, B.A. in History and French; 1986-1990-University Liggett School, Grosse Pointe Woods, MI, H.S. Diploma
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Create a positive and respectful work environment in the courthouse by maintaining professional relationships with prosecutors, attorneys and officers who appear before me. Be mindful of the Judicial Canons and act within the limited judicial authority granted by the Michigan and United States Constitutions. As your judge, I will follow the law while protecting everyone’s rights. I will treat all parties with courtesy and work to restore integrity, ethics and respect to our District Court.
Kirsten Nielsen Hartig
Age: 56
Occupation: Judge of the 52-4 District Court, serving Clawson and Troy
Municipality of residence: Troy
For how long: 24 years
Online campaign information: keepjudgehartig.com
Education: Michigan State University, James Madison College, Urban Policy Planning graduated in 1988
The American University, Washington College of Law, Washington D.C., graduated 1991
Previously and currently held elected offices: I was elected judge of the 52-4 District Court in 2010 and have served in that capacity from 2011 to present.
Top goals: My top goal is to do justice every day, as I have for the past twelve years. I will continue to treat each case carefully and fairly, and make informed decisions. I will always remember that each case affects our whole community. I will support the addition of a Veteran’s Court, and continue to preside over the Mental Health and Sobriety Treatment Courts. I will- as always- avoid partisanship and serve all my neighbors.
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
One candidate is running for one six-year term. Michigan court of appeals judges receive a salary of $173,092.
Colleen A. O’Brien
Running unopposed.
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 Michigan’s Court of Appeals.
Troy School District School Improvement Bond Proposition
Shall the Troy School District, County of Oakland, State of Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Five Hundred Fifty-Five Million Dollars ($555,000,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds, in one or more series, for the purpose of paying for the cost of the following projects: - Remodeling, equipping, re-equipping, furnishing, re-furnishing school buildings, athletic fields, playgrounds and other facilities to create a modern learning environment for students and for health, safety, security and other purposes; - Erecting, completing, equipping and furnishing a replacement middle school and classroom additions and other additions to existing school buildings and other facilities; - Acquiring and installing instructional technology infrastructure and equipment in school buildings and other facilities; and - Acquiring sites, preparing, developing and improving sites at school buildings and other facilities and the purchase of school buses? The annual debt millage required to retire all bonds of the School District currently outstanding and proposed pursuant to this ballot is expected to be at or below 6.10 mills which is a 2 mill increase from the 4.10 mills of annual debt millage levied in 2022. The maximum number of years any series of bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of refunding, is not more than thirty (30) years; the estimated millage that will be levied to pay the proposed bonds in the first year is 3.35 mills (which is equal to $3.35 per $1,000 of taxable value); and the estimated simple average annual millage that will be required to retire each series of bonds is 3.94 mills annually ($3.94 per $1,000 of taxable value). If approved by the voters, the bonds will be guaranteed by the State under the School Bond Qualification and Loan Program (the “Program”). The School District currently has $104,165,000 of qualified bonds outstanding and $0 of qualified loans outstanding under the Program. The School District does not expect to borrow from the Program to pay debt service on these bonds. The estimated computed millage rate required to be levied to pay the proposed bonds may change in the future based on changes in certain circumstances. (Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited, and the proceeds cannot be used for teacher, administrator or employee salaries, repair or maintenance costs or other operating expenses.)
Oakland County Public Transportation Millage
A proposal to authorize Oakland County to levy a millage for the purpose of funding public transportation services in Oakland County, including operating, maintaining, improving, and expanding transit services, creating and expanding new fixed routes for bus service connecting local communities, expanding transportation services for seniors, veterans, and people with disabilities, and providing transportation to get employees to jobs, patients to healthcare, students to colleges and universities, for the general public to have more transportation options, and for related purposes authorized by law.
This millage would be levied at a maximum rate of .95 mills (95 cents per $1,000 in taxable value) for a period of 10 years beginning in 2022 and ending in 2031.
This millage would replace an expiring millage levied by the Oakland County Public Transportation Authority supporting the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART), and fund replacement of other local public transportation millages.
If this new millage is approved and levied, revenue will be distributed to Oakland County, SMART, North Oakland Transportation Authority (NOTA), Older Persons’ Commission (OPC), and the Western Oakland Transportation Authority (WOTA). It is estimated that $66,163,000 will be collected in the first year. Expenditure of revenue from the millage will be subject to oversight by the Oakland County Board of Commissioners and to independent audits.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Macomb Intermediate School District
Counties of Macomb, St. Clair and Oakland
State of Michigan
Special Education Facilities Improvement Bond Proposal
Shall the Macomb Intermediate School District, Counties of Macomb, St. Clair and Oakland, State of Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Ninety-Seven Million, Four Hundred and Sixty-Five Thousand Dollars ($97,465,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds, in one or more series, for the purpose of paying for the cost of the following capital projects:
Serving special education students, including infants and toddlers, throughout Macomb County, with disabilities such as autism, cerebral palsy, cognitive impairments and emotional disabilities by:
• Acquiring sites and erecting special education buildings, acquiring buildings for special education, erecting additions to existing school buildings and other facilities and preparing developing and improving sites at school buildings and other facilities for special education; and
• Remodeling, equipping, re-equipping, furnishing, re-furnishing school buildings and other facilities for special education; and purchasing school buses for special education students?
The maximum number of years any series of bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of refunding, is not more than Twenty-four and one quarter (24.25) years; the estimated millage that will be levied to pay the proposed bonds in the first year is 0.17 mills (which is equal to $0.17 per $1,000 of taxable value); and the estimated simple average annual millage that will be required to retire each series of bonds is 0.15 mills annually ($0.15 per $1,000 of taxable value). The tax levy to pay the proposed bonds in the first year for a homeowner with a home value equal to the Macomb County average value of $230,767 is estimated not to exceed $19.62 for the year.
The proposed projects to be financed under this bond proposal will benefit special education students from public school academies and the following school districts located within the School District:
Anchor Bay School District
Armada Area Schools
Center Line Public Schools
Chippewa Valley Schools
Clintondale Community Schools
Eastpointe Public Schools
Fitzgerald Public Schools
Fraser Public Schools
Macomb Intermediate School District
Mount Clemens Community Schools
New Haven Community Schools
Richmond Community Schools
Romeo Community Schools
Roseville Community Schools
South Lake Schools
Utica Community Schools
Lake Shore Public Schools
Lakeview Public Schools
L’Anse Creuse Public Schools
Van Dyke Public Schools
Warren Consolidated Schools
Warren Woods Public Schools
(Pursuant to State law, the proceeds may not be used for teacher, administrator or employee salaries, repair or maintenance costs or other operating expenses.)
Statewide proposals
Proposal 22-1
A proposal to amend the state constitution to require annual public financial disclosure reports by legislators and other state officers and change state legislator term limit to 12 total years in legislature.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Require members of legislature, governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and attorney general file annual public financial disclosure reports after 2023, including assets, liabilities, income sources, future employment agreements, gifts, travel reimbursements, and positions held in organizations except religious, social, and political organizations.
• Require legislature implement but not limit or restrict reporting requirements.
• Replace current term limits for state representatives and state senators with a 12-year total limit in any combination between house and senate, except a person elected to senate in 2022 may be elected the number of times allowed when that person became a candidate.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-2
A proposal to amend the state constitution to add provisions regarding elections.
This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Recognize fundamental right to vote without harassing conduct;
• Require military or overseas ballots be counted if postmarked by election day;
• Provide voter right to verify identity with photo ID or signed statement;
• Provide voter right to single application to vote absentee in all elections;
• Require state-funded absentee-ballot drop boxes, and postage for absentee applications and ballots;
• Provide that only election officials may conduct post-election audits;
• Require nine days of early in-person voting;
• Allow donations to fund elections, which must be disclosed;
• Require canvass boards certify election results based only on the official records of votes cast.
Should this proposal be adopted?
Proposal 22-3
A proposal to amend the state constitution to establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make all decisions about pregnancy and abortion; allow state to regulate abortion in some cases; and forbid prosecution of individuals exercising established right. This proposed constitutional amendment would:
• Establish new individual right to reproductive freedom, including right to make and carry out all decisions about pregnancy, such as prenatal care, childbirth, postpartum care, contraception, sterilization, abortion, miscarriage management, and infertility;
• Allow state to regulate abortion after fetal viability, but not prohibit if medically needed to protect a patient’s life or physical or mental health;
• Forbid state discrimination in enforcement of this right; prohibit prosecution of an individual, or a person helping a pregnant individual, for exercising rights established by this amendment;
• Invalidate state laws conflicting with this amendment.
Should this proposal be adopted?