Who's on Your Ballot? Meet the Candidates Running for U.S. and Michigan Offices

15 candidates share why they believe in our state and what they'll do for their constituents

By Northern Express Staff & Contributors | Oct. 19, 2024

There's a lot of attention at the top of the ticket this November, but don’t let the presidential election be the only race you’re watching. Michigan has an open seat in the Senate with Sen. Debbie Stabenow’s retirement, a regular election cycle for the House of Representatives, and plenty of folks looking to secure a spot in the Michigan House. (And that’s to say nothing of local elections, of which there are hundreds happening in our coverage region.)

We asked candidates from the two major parties to share their answers to two simple questions. First, why are they passionate about the state of Michigan and serving the people who live here? And second, what are their top three priorities if they get the job?

U.S. SENATE

Elissa Slotkin (Democrat)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I’m a third-generation Michigander. For me, service is not about partisanship—it’s about doing what’s right to protect our country. I’m running for Senate because I believe that we need a new generation of leaders that thinks differently, works harder, and never forgets the mission of public service. In the Senate, I will continue to champion the diverse needs of our great state, from the spirited City of Detroit to the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, and from the lively college towns of Ann Arbor and East Lansing to the storied business hubs of Flint and Grand Rapids.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
My number one priority is to make it easier for Michiganders to get into and stay in the middle class. Michigan invented the middle class by maintaining a strong union presence and making investments in small businesses. We can keep people there by reducing healthcare costs, putting Americans on the path to homeownership, and making more critical items in America. Lastly, I hope to codify the standard set by Roe into law—in the wake of attacks on women’s health across the nation, it is clear that a strong federal standard is necessary.

Mike Rogers (Republican)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I was born and raised in Michigan. I went to public school here, I worked in a Michigan car factory, I served in the Army, the FBI, as a State Senator and a Congressman. I care deeply about our state. Under the Democrats’ leadership, Michigan is struggling. Families are living paycheck to paycheck, communities have been shaken by the open southern border, our autoworkers are losing their jobs because of EV mandates, and our literacy rates have plummeted. When I saw Michigan hurting, I knew I had to get back in the fight to get America back on track.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
As Senator, I will bring down prices and relieve families who are living paycheck to paycheck. I’ll end the Democrats’ wasteful spending and unleash American energy, bringing down gas and grocery costs. I’ll work with Republicans and Democrats to end the violence and the flow of fentanyl by securing the southern border and restoring the Remain in Mexico policy. Under Democrats’ rule, America’s threats abroad are emboldened. Radical EV mandates make us more reliant on the Chinese Communist Party for EV battery technology. As Senator, I will end these senseless mandates and have the backs of Michigan’s auto workers.

U.S. HOUSE

District 1

Callie Barr (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I was born and raised here, and we deserve representation that puts us first. I’m a fifth-generation Michigander, and proud graduate of Cheboygan High School where I met my husband, Matt. After September 11, Matt enlisted in the Marines and served in Iraq and Afghanistan while we raised our two daughters. I would eventually care for Matt after he suffered combat injuries, and advocated for other military families like ours. I then received my law degree so that I could better advocate for policy changes at the federal level. This is our home, and we deserve real representation.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
Protecting our democracy, strengthening the middle class, and ensuring a future for our children. We are at an inflection point in American democracy, and we need to protect against extremism that weakens our government. I’m also committed to supporting the middle class—we keep being told the economy is strong, but too many families are struggling to make ends meet. And to ensure a future for our kids, we need to fight for clean air and water as this not only protects our natural resources but also ensures the health of our local economy and overall public health.

Jack Bergman (R)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
Michigan is not only the most beautiful state and place to call home, it’s also a place where the founding principles of our country really shine. We’ve proven in Michigan that individual liberty and hard work can empower all in their pursuit of happiness. Those ideals are under threat, though. This election is one of the most important of our lifetimes, and the work I’ve been doing for veterans, securing our border, giving a voice to the working men and women of our District, and strengthening our military—that really speaks to why I’m running again for Congress.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
Our country is in distress. We have a failing economy, faltering national security, open borders wreaking havoc on our communities, and unelected bureaucrats creating policies which exacerbate all of that. I will continue to fight for transparency and accountability in our government, rolling back harmful regulations and ensuring Michiganders can prosper once again—economically, in energy security, and with safe and secure borders. The top priorities for me are economic prosperity, national security, and energy independence so we can drive down costs for families at the pump, help taxpayers keep more of their money, and secure our nation’s borders.

District 2

Michael Lynch (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I’m passionate about Michigan because of its natural beauty, economic potential, and the strong sense of community. Michiganders are hardworking, resilient, and always willing to lend a hand. However, northern Michigan faces challenges that we need to address, like reliable and affordable healthcare, childcare, and housing. We need to create more good-paying jobs to ensure that our communities thrive. Our veterans and active duty personnel deserve better, with respect, services, and support for their transitions to civilian life. I will be honest and transparent because the people of northern Michigan deserve leadership that respects them.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
If given the opportunity to serve, my top priorities will be: supporting families with reliable healthcare and strong public education, revitalizing rural communities by making housing more affordable and expanding broadband access, and ensuring that women have the freedom to make their own healthcare decisions. Transparency in government is essential, and I will always fight against misinformation and any attempts to undermine our democratic elections. My commitment to families, farms, and freedom is unwavering. We need people who are going to roll up their sleeves and work across the aisle to deliver cost savings to people and not further divide us.

John Moolenaar (R)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
Americans know the policies of Biden-Harris and the Democrats have put America on the wrong track: rising prices hurting seniors and families, excessive mandates, lawlessness on the southern border, rising crime, and schools in disarray. I am running for reelection to stand up for conservative values including the right to life, the Second Amendment, election integrity, and keeping taxes low so Michigan families keep more of their own money. In Washington, D.C., I will defend our Constitution, protect the freedoms we enjoy, fight tax increases, secure the border, and support our law enforcement.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
In the next Congress, my goals include continuing to protect American global competitiveness and positioning America to win the strategic competition with the Chinese Communist Party. I also will continue my work in the fight against inflation, wasteful spending, and reducing federal regulatory burdens. Another policy priority I have for the next Congress is to continue my efforts in expanding rural broadband access.

MICHIGAN HOUSE

District 101

Christopher Crain (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I am deeply proud to have been born and raised in Michigan. The people of this state, with their unparalleled work ethic, patriotism, and fairness, have always been a source of inspiration for me. This admiration for the people of Michigan is what drives my ambition to contribute to a brighter future for all of us.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
My top three priorities are improving the overall quality of life for my fellow Michiganders by improving our educational systems, job, and business opportunities; housing affordability; and healthcare, which should be more affordable and available no matter where someone lives in the state. I will defend the rights of every person in Michigan and will work exhaustively to return their voice to our state government because it is the only way we can move forward together.

Joseph Fox (R) did not return multiple requests for comment.

District 102

Kathy Pelleran-Mahoney (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
Michigan is part of my soul. My family owned and operated a market in Alpena selling fresh produce, breakfast items, plants, and Christmas trees and wreaths. As a kid, I worked in the family business and went on buying trips with my dad. It gave me the chance to interact with people from across Michigan. In dealing with the public, I knew them. They were my family, neighbors, friends, and customers. Together, we worked, learned, lived, and played. It’s personal to me. I only want the best for our people and will work hard to help them.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
Equipping our people with a great public education and ensuring healthcare access, reproductive freedom, affordable housing, transportation, good jobs, and childcare options are vital to our thriving communities. My priorities include protecting and promoting these democratic values by working across the aisle and across the different levels of government to ensure that we modernize regulations and prioritize these values in our budget.

Curt VanderWall (R) did not return multiple requests for comment.

District 103

Betsy Coffia (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I’m pro choice, pro environment, pro public education. Former newspaper editor, social worker, two-term Grand Traverse County Commissioner. I’ve lived nearly my whole life in northern Michigan. It’s an amazing place but increasingly challenging for working/middle class people to make it here. I’ve lived the struggle of renting and high housing costs and of accessing healthcare. I grew up in a family that worked hard but had no health insurance and sometimes went without healthcare. I’m in public service because I love my community. I’ll keep working to make our region a place we all can thrive.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
Fighting for rural priorities, especially housing, healthcare and education. Here I will focus on housing: our neighbors’ and small businesses’ well-being is tied to housing access. In my first term, I voted to expand the Brownfield Redevelopment program to add housing as an allowable use. I got $300,000 in the state budget to support local communities that seek to update zoning for housing. Sen. John Damoose and I worked across the aisle to get $5 million in the budget to support housing for educators in northern Michigan. There’s much more to do, so housing remains my top focus.

Lisa Trombley (R)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I am passionate about representing the people of the 103rd District because they work every day to do what’s best for their families and give their all for their jobs. They fully appreciate the beauty around us, as well as understand the challenges faced by many in our community. I feel compelled to help navigate a future where they will have more autonomy, keep more of their tax dollars, and have more trust that Lansing is acting in the best interest of all of us.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
As a State Representative, my goal is to move Michigan forward in a direction that enables our state to be all that it can be. My top priorities will be to: 1) Identify opportunities to reduce government spending without jeopardizing critical government functions. 2) Put the focus back on student success. The current education budget is $24 billion and Michigan is No. 40 of 50 states. This is unacceptable! 3) Help create a more business friendly environment that offers lower taxes, fewer regulations, and more stability to attract and retain businesses.

District 104

Larry Knight (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I am passionate about ensuring this country remains a democracy—to that end, I am on the ballot to keep the Democrat in democracy and give the people in the 104th District a progressive choice as they contemplate their decision in the ballot box. If elected, I will work to ensure democracy is not separated from the republic by supporting progressive causes that align with the broader goals of economic growth, talent retention, and improving the quality of life for our district, state, and country that contributes to the well-being of all constituents and their families.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
I will champion policies that advance social justice, economic equity, and environmental sustainability for our district and state. My top priorities include: Economic Growth: Driving job creation and revitalization through tax equity, innovation, and support for manufacturing and small businesses. Educational Excellence: Ensuring accessible, high-quality education and workforce development by adequately funding public schools, expanding vocational training, and supporting teachers, the social sciences, and the arts. Community Well-being: Addressing the housing shortage and improving infrastructure to create a more affordable and livable community.

John Roth (R) did not return multiple requests for comment.

District 105

James Wojey (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I have wanted to run for office for many years. For me, standing on the sidelines and watching nothing getting done has made me act. They say, “don’t get mad, get elected,” and here I am. The people of northern Michigan deserve someone who is up to the challenge of making a difference.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
First, education—so much more needs to be done. All students need to have the tools to be successful in their careers once they graduate high school. I think all students should be able to try multiple job applications before leaving high school. Meaning they should get a taste of welding, auto mechanics, computer programming, industrial arts, carpentry, electrical/electrician, pipe fitting. These types of classes should be offered to all students starting with 8th grade. Second, housing—where are the substantial tax credits to build single family homes to live in? Third, a mix of stuff—Line 5, PFAS, UIA, DTE, Consumers Energy. All have issues nobody at the state level is talking about. Why?

Ken Borton (R) did not return multiple requests for comment.

District 106

Trina Borenstein (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I am passionate about the state of Michigan because I live here, and because I believe it is an exceptional place. We have over 20 percent of the world’s fresh water. We have a temperate climate. I believe, actually, Michigan may be where humanity makes its last stand! I want Michigan to prosper, but maintain the healthy land, air, and water that we so cherish.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
My first priority is making housing available to all of Michigan’s citizens. Michigan House District 106, in particular, has nearly twice as many homes as households. It is criminal that except for the wealthy, people must wait months before something they can afford becomes available. What would help with this? Reliable and affordable internet. Most of Michigan is rural, and most rural areas have only spotty and expensive coverage. Finally, Enbridge’s Line 5 must be decommissioned. It is a calamity waiting to happen, and the risk far outweighs any benefit to the people of Michigan.

Cameron Cavitt (R) did not return multiple requests for comment.

District 107

Jodi Decker (D)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
As a lifelong Michigander, and Yooper, I have grown up here, raised my own children here, and now my grandchildren are being raised here. With climate change happening and threats to our Great Lakes, I believe that someone who understands that the policies we make here in Michigan will affect the planet is important. The Great Lakes are approximately 21 percent of the freshwater reserve in the world, and we have a responsibility to protect it. I work as a social worker now, so I also see the shortages of services and housing that rural northern Michigan has, and we need real representation to make our living situation better.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
Since I have been a foster parent and I currently work in this system as a Family Preservation Worker, foster care reform is something I want to work on. I have a BS in Criminal Justice-Corrections from Lake Superior State University, so Criminal Justice reform is also important to me. We have a massive shortage of Corrections Officers and we need to encourage more people to go into that field. The third priority is bringing services to our area; we need programs that address priorities for rural communities. This includes things like broadband internet, but also specialty doctors, public transportation options, making sure that our island communities have services they need as well.

Parker Fairbairn (R)
1. Why are you passionate about the state of Michigan and representing its people?
I am passionate about the future impact we can have throughout the world. Michigan’s history is steeped with innovations that have affected the daily lives of many across the globe. We put the world on wheels, start countless people’s days with a nutritional breakfast, and have healed the soul with the sounds of Motown! I am confident that if we invest in our future by supporting small business and entrepreneurs and invest in our kids by supplying the tools for success, our possibilities are endless. I am passionate about our potential and will fight each day for a brighter future.

2. What are your top three priorities if you get the job?
I have signed on to the Mission for Michigan platform set out by House Republicans. This 10-point plan is a blueprint I will follow to get Michigan back on track. Some of the main priorities from our Mission will be to make Michigan more affordable by rolling back the Democrats’ tax increases, improve education in Michigan to prepare our kids for a bright future, and grow our economy to create high-paying, long-term careers. I encourage you to visit missionformichigan.com to learn more about this plan.