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

FARMINGTON/FARMINGTON HILLS — In the Farmington Press’ coverage area, voters will decide on Nov. 8 Michigan’s next governor; national and state legislators; county commissioners; and more. Candidates were asked, in 75 words or fewer, to state their top goal(s) if elected. If a candidate went over the word limit, (…) replaces the rest of the answer. The answers are printed verbatim except where material is omitted due to personal attacks or items we know to be false or that are blatant misrepresentations.

 

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 18
Two candidates are running 
for one two-year term. State 
representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

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.

Republican
Wendy Webster-Jackson
Age: 50
Occupation: Podiatrist
Municipality of residence: Southfield resident
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: Drwendyforstaterep.com
Education: Doctorate in Podiatric Medicine, New York College of Podiatric Medicine,  BS Biology Wayne State University, Cass Technical High School
Previously and currently held elected offices: No answer given.
Top goals: Families build communities and I want to attract families to the 18th district with the following agenda. 1. My goal is to promote and foster new and established businesses.  2. To promote education for students, stop gender identity taught in schools, to have teachers concentrate on the basics. Reading, writing, math, financial literacy, and other skills to be competitive nationally and globally. 3. To increase the public safety budget to equip officers with the latest technology, and increase pay and benefit packages.  4. Stop unnecessary milages.

 

 

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

Democrat
Samantha Steckloff
Age: 38
Occupation: State Representative
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: I was born and raised here.
Online campaign information: www.SamanthaSteckloff.com
Education: B.A. Foreign Policy, Purdue University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current State Representative for the 37th District (Farmington and Farmington Hills), and former Farmington Hills City Councilwoman.
Top goals: I want to keep working hard to improve access to quality healthcare for all Michiganders. I want to continue augmenting our colleges and universities and making them more affordable for students. I also want to really focus on building a transportation and mobility infrastructure to face the challenges and opportunities of the future so that Michigan continues to be a leader in mobility.

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

 

State House of 
Representatives District 21
Three candidates are running for one two-year term. State 
representatives earn a salary of $71,685 plus expenses.

Democrat
Kelly Breen
Age: 42
Occupation: Michigan State Representative, Democrat (current minority party): Insurance and Judiciary Committees
Municipality of residence: Novi, Michigan
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information:
https://kellybreen.com/
Education: 1) Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University, James Madison School, and 2) 
 J.D. from Wayne State University Law School.
Previously and currently held elected offices:
· Novi City Council Member, 2017-2020
· (Current role) State Representative for Michigan House of Representatives, District #38
Top goals: “Healthy Michigan” includes our physical, mental & economic needs:
· Quality accessible affordable physical, mental, recovery, prescription, and reproductive healthcare.
· Protection from toxins in air and water.
· Freedom from gun violence through common-sense regulations and anti-violence programs.
· Quality equitable public education from pre-K through community college, trade schools, and apprentice programs.
· Good-paying “blue and green” jobs in clean energy, conservation, transportation, building, and sustainable agriculture.
· Supports giving small businesses competitive edges.
· Tax, judicial, and governance reforms.

Republican
David Staudt
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Libertarian
James K. Young
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: For 9 years
Online campaign information: None
Education: B.S. Business Management, Ferris State University
A.S Chemical Technology, Lawrence Technological University
B.S. Chemical Engineering, Wayne State University
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: Regarding my top three goals, first I would like to reduce taxes. These could include the Income Tax and the Retirement Tax. The more taxation is eliminated, the more money will be in the pockets of the citizens. Second, I would like to reform auto insurance. We did have some auto insurance reform, but it still needs more work. Third, I would like to find ways to make it easier to start businesses in Michigan.

 

 

State Senate District 6
Three candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.

Democrat
Mary Cavanagh
Age: 31
Occupation: currently serving as the Michigan State House Representative for district 10  (Redford Twp & NW Detroit)
Municipality of residence: Redford Township in Wayne County
For how long: I was raised, graduated, and have bought my first home in Redford Twp. I have lived here for over 20 years other than staying on-campus when attending Michigan State University from 2009-2011.
Online campaign information: www.MaryforMichigan.com
Education: Graduated from Redford public schools with an early acceptance into Michigan State University. I transferred after two years to Wayne State University where I received my bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with a focus in the evolutionary analysis of human behavior.
Previouslyand currently held elected offices: I currently serve as Executive Board member for MDP Women’s Caucus, Member-at-Large for MDP Youth Caucus. I am a precinct delegate and currently serve as the State House Representative for Michigan’s 10th house district that includes NW Detroit and Redford Twp.
Top goals: My top goals include improving healthcare through bodily autonomy, lowering prescription drugs, increasing access and awareness to mental and behavioral health in our communities to expanding paid sick-leave, advocating for seniors by repealing the pension tax, giving relief and support to our small business, common-sense gun legislation, protecting our voting rights by removing barriers to expanding access, investing in our crumbling infrastructure, and prioritizing education through equitable funding and resources for all students in Michigan. 

Republican
Ken Crider
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

Working Class Party
Kimberly Givens
Did not return questionnaire by press time

 

State Senate District 13
Two candidates are running for one four-year term. The salary for a state senator is $71,685 plus benefits.

Democrat
Rosemary Bayer
Age: 63
Occupation: State Senator, long career in information technology, as a computer engineer, analyst, architect, and executive business leader, then owner of a small information technology company serving schools and non-profits.
Municipality of residence: Keego Harbor
For how long: 8 months
Online campaign information:
http://rosemarybayer.com
Education: BS Computer Science Central MI University, MBA Lawrence Technological University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Currently State Senator MI District 12.
Top goals: My goals for my second term are to
- provide adequate and equitable funding to public schools for ALL students, including physical and mental health services, resources for special needs, and teacher supports
- pass common sense gun safety legislation as well as legislation protecting reproductive freedom and voting rights.
- protect our environmental assets -- water, air and land -- with legislation to both protect and to make polluters pay for their messes, and invest in rebuilding inadequate infrastructure.

RepublicanName: Jason Rhines
Age: 47
Occupation: Small Business Owner
Municipality of residence: Northville Township
For how Long: 8 years
Online campaign information: RhinesforSenate.com
Education: Associates Degree; Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program
Currently and previously held elected offices: Northville Township Treasurer
Top Goals: My top goal is to get Michigan’s economy moving and deliver immediate income tax and retirement tax relief for hardworking Michigan families to fight the rising cost of inflation and high gasoline prices. Businesses have closed for good and people were made to wait for months for help from the state when they filed for unemployment. There is no more time to wait. We need bipartisan action now.

 

Oakland County 
Board of Commissioners District 15
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
Gwen Markham
Age: 69
Occupation: Retired Manufacturing Operations manager
Municipality of residence: Novi
For how long: 27 years
Online campaign information: www.gwenmarkham.com
Education: BS Chemistry Western Michigan University 
Previously and currently held elected offices: Novi City Council, 2013-2018, Oakland County Commission 2019-2022
Top goals: Reduction of the County’s carbon footprint is a major goal of mine. Since I became a Commissioner, we have distributed over 7000 trees throughout the County. We have surveyed all County buildings and our fleet of vehicles for utilization and energy sources, to reduce the use of fossil fuels in our energy profile. We are repurposing older parks to enhance access to green space for all areas of the County.

Republican
Michelle DiNardo
Age: 54
Occupation: Financial Advisor
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 8 years, previously resided in West Bloomfield for over 20 years.
Online campaign information: electmichelledinardo.com
Education: BS Indiana University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate
Top goals:
Oakland County taxpayers cannot accept continuous higher tax rates! I would fight to lower tax rates which would offset the inflationary costs of gas, food, and energy.
Our tax dollars need to benefit our residents, not handed over to foreign entities such as THE WORLD ECONOMIC FORUM.
We must keep our schools open without forced mask or vaccine mandates.
We must fight to secure our borders.

 

Oakland County 
Board of Commissioners District 16
Two candidates are running for one two-year term. Commissioners earn an approximately $36,000 salary.

Democrat
William Miller
Age: 42
Occupation: Political Director with Operating Engineers 324
Municipality of residence: Farmington / Farmington Hills
For how long: 7years
Online campaign information: Facebook Williammiller14thcoun tycommissioner
Education: Trade School
Previously and currently held elected offices: Oakland County Commission since 2019
Top goals: *Infrastructure: continue to make sure the county investment in our counties infrastructure issues. *Diversity: continue to make the county more welcoming and everyone in the county has equal opportunity. Better then 50( Seniors) : continue to work to make sure we invest Services for them

Republican
Michael F. Mrozovich
Age: 67
Occupation: No answer given.
Municipality of residence: No answer given.
Online campaign information: No answer given.
Education: BSME at WMU
Previously and currently held elected offices: Elected office is precinct delegate.
Top goals: Our county enjoyed solid, efficient, dependable leadership under L. Brooks Paterson, our county is no longer the model of efficient representative government it once was. We need lower spending, fewer programs, better law enforcement and better roads. Our county board should be looking for ways to lower our property taxes using innovative techniques to reduce spending and eliminate wasteful, archaic programs. As Ronald Reagan once said, the nearest thing to eternal life on earth is a government program. We are spending ourselves in bankruptcy, it is time to change course.

 

 

Farmington Public Schools Board of Education
Six candidates are running for three six-year terms.

TR Carr
Age: 75
Occupation: Retired University Faculty; Currently Evaluation Management Consultant
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 6 Years
Online campaign information: TRCARR.COM
Education: Ph.D. in Public Management and Analysis
Previously and currently held elected offices:
Mayor, City of Hazelwood, MO ( 9 Years)
Top goals: My goals are: 1) Increase curricular accountability of the Board and School District to parents of children in the District; 2) Improve the academic performance of all students within the District; 3) Improve financial accountability of the District to all residents; 4) Conduct regular “listening sessions” to hear the concerns of parents and residents of the District.

Björn Olson
Age: 47
Occupation: Cybersecurity
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: 16 years
Online campaign information: https://www.bjornforfps.com/
Education: Eastern Michigan University - Bachelor of Business Administration with a focus on Information Systems Management & Marketing.
Previously and currently held elected offices: None
Top goals: My #1 goal is to address the 41% and 55% proficiency gaps in literacy and math in our district. The Board has a duty to each student to help them achieve the best educational outcomes in Math, Reading, Writing and Science. I believe each student should be given the opportunity to reach their highest academic potential. I bring the perspective of a parent with four kids in the district, a taxpayer, and strong business acumen.

Angie Smith
Age: 60
Occupation: Vice-President, Farmington Public Schools Board of Education
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills, MI
For how long: 26 years
Online campaign information: N/A
Education: Wayne State University and Wayne County Community College
Previously and currently held elected offices: 2016-2022 Trustee- Board of Education, Farmington Public Schools- I served as Board Secretary and am currently Board Vice-President, former DEI Co-Chair
Top goals: My top goals are to create an optimal learning environment by making our schools safe for both students and staff, by continuing our work with DEI and with Social Emotional Learning and implementing our strategic plan and developing our profile of the life-long learner. Hiring and retaining highly qualified teachers, administrators and staff are crucial to reduce student-staff ratios and to enhance academic performance.

Donna Swoboda
Age: 67
Occupation: Retired Orchestra Teacher from West Bloomfield Schools. Presently substitute teacher for Farmington Schools.
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 15 years
Online campaign information:  https://www.electdonnaswoboda.com/blank-1
Education: Walled Lake Western High School, BA: Olivet College, Permanent Teaching Certificate: Eastern Michigan University 
Previously and currently held elected offices: Precinct Delegate            
Top goals: We need to teach smarter, better! 47% of Farmington students have below average literacy scores. In our fervor to compete with our Asian counterparts, teachers are being pressured to move quickly and cover more material. Students need to master basic reading and math skills before moving on to something harder. We need to be Good Stewards with Taxpayers money! As a substitute in the district, I see the needs. Promote transparency and Accountability to parents in the curriculum. 

Donald Walker
Age: 54
Occupation: Career and Technical Education (CTE) Administrator, Director, Advance CTE Fellow
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 22 years
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/elect donwalker
Education: Doctoral student, Education Studies, Wayne State University, Digital Media/Broadcast two-time certification Specs Howard School of Media Arts (Specs at LTU), MBA, University of Phoenix, BA Communications, University of Detroit-Mercy
Previously and currently held elected offices: Current Farmington Public Schools Board of Education Trustee
Top goals: Continued use of data to develop a plan to address literacy and math gaps via our strategic plan, addressing student and staff mental and physical health, support of career readiness and continued community engagement and increasing student voice

Terri Ann Weems
Age: 45
Occupation: President and Certified Public Accountant
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 12 years
Online campaign information: www.ElectTerriWeems.net
Education: Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Master’s in Accounting degrees from Ohio University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Farmington Public Schools Board of Education Trustee
Top goals: I believe it is important to work together, functioning as one. I introduced the development of joint goals, as Board President, two years ago and successfully accomplished all goals since. My suggestions for focus areas going forward:
· Improve academic performance for all students
· Ensure spending is in priority areas including students and district talent
· Build relationships, actively engaging with students, staff and parents
· Lead as a cohesive, informed, and professional governing body with integrity

 

Farmington Public Schools Board of Education
Three candidates are running for one term ending Dec. 31, 2024.

Michelle Bushey
Age: 47
Occupation: Teacher
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills 
For how long: 18 years
Online campaign information: https://www.busheyfpsboard.com
Education: Bachelors in Elementary Education, Masters Degree in Special Education 
Previously and currently held elected offices: none 
Top goals: My #1 goal is to ensure that every student has the opportunity to achieve his or her potential for academic success. Currently, FPS has extreme deficits in both reading and math. I’m well-qualified, with 21 years teaching experience, my education, plus three school aged children of my own.  As a board member, it is imperative administration, teachers, support staff, other parents, and students work together to give our children the education they deserve.

Claudia Heinrich
Age: 68
Occupation: Retired Educator
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills
For how long: 47 years
Online campaign information: Facebook: Claudia Heinrich Farmington School Board Candidate
Education: BA Education, University of Michigan Ann Arbor; MA Mathematics, Eastern Michigan University
Previously and currently held elected offices: Farmington School Board Trustee
Top goals: My priorities are ensuring a safe environment for students to learn, adequate resources to meet the needs of every student along with time and support for teachers to focus on teaching and learning.

Carl Mintz 
Write-in Candidate
Age: 40
Occupation: Realtor, Account Executive, Delivery Driver.
Municipality of residence: Farmington Hills.
For how long: 37 years.
Online campaign information: https://www.facebook.com/fps carlmintz
Education: AA in Liberal Arts; BS in Criminal Justice.
Previously and currently held elected offices: N/A
Top goals: My goals are to push reading, writing & arithmetic as well as the true teaching of our history w/o leaving anything out. The reading scores & comprehension is at 41% and that is ridiculous. I will vote against everything dealing w/Critical Race Theory, the teaching of politics that is one sided & all mandates. I will push for extra help for students w/disabilities & special needs & finally, push for more parental involvement.

 

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

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

Kyra Harris Bolden
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

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

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

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

 

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

Sima Patel
Did not return questionnaire by press time.

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

 

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?

 

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?

 

Farmington Public School District Operating Millage Restoration Proposal

This authorization will:(i) restore the authority of Farmington Public School District to levy 18.00 mills previously authorized and levied for general operating purposes on all property, except principal residence and other property exempt by law which has been reduced by 0.6152 mill by application of the Headlee Amendment; and (ii) increase the prior authority by 1 mill in the event of future Headlee rollbacks of the same amount. This authority, combined with other unexpired authorizations, would allow the School District to receive revenues at the full foundation allowance permitted by the State. Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on all property, except personal residence and other property exempt by law, in the Farmington Public School District, County of Oakland, State of Michigan, be increased by 1.6152 mills ($1.6152 on each $1,000 of taxable value) for four (4) years, the years 2022 to 2025, inclusive, to provide funds for operating expenses? This millage would raise an estimated $878,336 for the School District in the first year that it is levied.