Across Greater Lansing, voters have begun to cast ballots for the 2020 state primary election – absentee ballots are being sent out, with in-person voting to follow on Tuesday, Aug. 4. Winners of the primary advance to the 2020 general election on Nov. 3.
LSJ asked area candidates running for office to share their backgrounds, and answer a few questions on major topics to aid voters in their decision. Read excerpts from their answers below, in order of district number (only districts 65, .
Michigan House District 65
Sarah Lightner | Republican (Incumbent)
No response submitted.
Dave Rowland | Democrat
No response.
Nancy Smith | Democrat
I was born in Jackson. I grew up in Okemos and Williamston, graduating from Williamston High School. I’m married and we have one daughter who is headed to college in the fall. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan, studying in the School of Natural Resources. I received a Master’s degree in Education from the University of Toledo.
We’ve lived in Jackson since 2001. In that time, my community leadership and involvement includes:
- Jackson Community Forum, founding member & Chair
- Jackson Area Youth Council, adviser
- Jackson Personal Care Ministry, volunteer
- UU Church of East Liberty, Board Member, Education Committee Chair
- Jackson High School Project Graduation
- Hanover-Horton High School GSA Faculty Adviser
I am a retiring public school teacher. I’ve taught for the last 23 years. For the last 19 years, I’ve been a special education teacher at Hanover-Horton High School.
I’ve been active with the Jackson County Democrats for many years. I’ve been elected Liberty Township Precinct Delegate for most years since 2006. I’ve been active in my teacher’s union locally and at the county and state level. I’ve served on my local union Board since 2013.
Michigan House District 67
Kara Hope | Democrat (Incumbent)
I have lived in Holt for nearly 15 years and the children I’ve raised (my niece Emma, age 22 and my nephew Jared, age 17) have attended Holt Public Schools. My husband Evan Hope and I have been married for 14 years. About 12 years ago, I started an all-volunteer nonprofit arts organization that provides free and low-cost, family friendly events like Music in the Garden, our summer concert series. I have also volunteered my legal services with/to Elder Law of Michigan, the Sam Corey Senior Center Club and the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council. I also served on the executive board of the Capital Area College Access Network.
I grew up in Ionia, Michigan. I am a graduate of Michigan State University (B.A. with high honors, Phi Beta Kappa) and WMU Cooley Law School (J.D. cum laude). I was elected to serve as managing editor of the Cooley Law Review and I interned with the Innocence Project. I am an attorney with experience in the public, private and academic sectors. I had a solo family law practice until I started running for state representative in 2017. Before attending law school I worked as a journalist at a small daily newspaper.
I currently serve as state representative for the 67th House District. I previously served on the Ingham County Board of Commissioners for three terms (2012-18), including one year as board chairperson. I held other leadership positions as well, including chairing the Tri-County Office on Aging board, chairing the Law & Courts committee, and chairing the Indigent Defense Collaborative Committee.
Nate Ross | Republican
I am a Christian, saved by God’s grace. I am married to my wife, Amber and we have two daughters, Nora and Ruby. I am a mid-Michigan native, originally from Grand Ledge and am proud to call the Mason area my home. I am a graduate of the Michigan State University college of Engineering with a degree in Applied Engineering Sciences. I am a member of Red Cedar Church and volunteer with Endeavor House Ministries.
I am currently a Senior Engineering Analyst in the food and beverage packaging industry. Previously I worked in the plastics compounding industry in both Supply Chain, and Engineering functions and have also held a position in Data Analytics in the financial services industry.
I have served as the Ingham County Republican Party Executive Committee member, Vevay Township Republican Precinct Delegate and am a Former Limestone County Republican Executive Committee member.
Clyde Thomas | Republican
No response.
Michigan House District 68
Sarah Anthony | Democrat (Incumbent)
Hometown: Lansing
Education: Lansing Everett High School, Central Michigan University, Western Michigan University
Personal/volunteer affiliations: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Capital Area United Way (board member) Capital Area Michigan Works! (former board member); Greater Lansing Food Bank (former board member); Lansing Branch NAACP (former board member)
My political experience includes:
- Michigan College Access Network (Assistant Director/ Interim Executive Director
- Ingham County Commissioner 2013 – 2018
- Legislative Assistance, Office of State Representative Joan Bauer (D-Lansing)
Robert Atkinson | Republican
No response submitted.
Michigan House District 69
Julie Brixie | Democrat (Incumbent)
I am an environmentalist by training, with a Master of Science degree from MSU in Environmental Toxicology and Soil Chemistry. I spent several years traveling all over the state conducting investigations and cleanups at contaminated sites before getting involved in local government. Since winning my primary election in 2018, I’ve worked really hard to help flip Michigan through the formation of my PAC Brixie Blue Wave Fund. Please visit www.brixiebluewave.com for more information.
My political experience includes:
- Meridian Township Trustee, 2000-2008 (2 Terms)
- Meridian Township Treasurer, 2008-2018 (2.5 Terms)
- State Representative, 2019-Present (1 Term)
Grace Norris | Republican
No response submitted.
Michigan House District 71
Angela Witwer | Democrat (Incumbent)
I was born in a small farming community outside of Traverse City and lived on our family farm. I have lived in Delta Township for the past 45+ years.
I have served on many volunteer committees and boards including American Cancer Society, Boys and Girls Club, McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation Board, Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Club, Wharton Center for Performing Arts Board, Volunteers of America Homeless No More Committee and St. Gerard Catholic Church marketing committee. Additionally, I served two terms as an elected Waverly Community Schools Board member where I served six years as the vice president.
I am a graduate of Waverly Community Schools (within Eaton County) and a Magna Cum Laude graduate of Northwood University. I am married and have two married children and four granddaughters.
I spent 22 years at Sparrow Health System both in the clinical arena and administration.
For the past 13 years, I have co-owned and successfully operated Edge Partnerships. Edge is a full-service branding, marketing, advertising, public-relations and advocacy business. Edge has been honored with many awards including Entrepreneur of the Year, Pace Awards, Telly Award, Athena Award for Organizational Development, INC 5000, Top 50 Business to Watch
I was appointed, elected, and reelected to the Waverly Community Schools Board of Education serving six years as the Vice President. I was elected in 2018 and I am in my first term as the State Representative in the 71st District (Eaton County.)
Christine Barnes | Republican
I was born in RAF Lakenheath, England, I am a proud Air Force brat. I have lived most of my life in Eaton County. I believe we have a moral and ethical obligation to take care of the most vulnerable amongst us. Therefore, I spend most of my days volunteering within formal organizations or within my community. During the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic I delivered materials and distributed over 600 masks to local families and organizations in need at no cost. I currently volunteer with the Eaton County Transportation Authority, Stephen Ministry, Kiwanis, Legion, Court Appointed Special Advocate and Veterans of Foreign Wars. I am currently an NRA instructor and small business owner.
My political experience includes:
- Republican Nominee for 71st in 2018 Election Cycle
- 2016 Elected Eaton County Commissioner District 1
- Eatran appointee 2016-Current
- TCRPC (Tri-County Regional Planning Commission)– Commissioner 2018-1019
- Eaton County Planning and Zoning Commissioner – 2018-2019
- Zoning ordinance Committee Eaton County – 2018-2019
- Precinct Delegate 2016 - Present
Gina Johnsen | Republican
I was born, raised, and educated in the Lansing area, and currently live in Delta Township. I hold a bachelor of arts degree from Wellesley College in economics and international studies. I am a mother, and have a business background in healthcare and finance.
I serve as an Advisory Board Member of Protect Life Michigan and the Executive Director of Michigan Capitol House of Prayer. I am also a community organizer dedicated to initiatives that restore and empower the family. I've spent 20-years as a businesswomen in healthcare industry and currently own a small business.
My political experience includes campaigns, serving as precinct delegate and as a Eaton County Parks & Recreation Board Member.
Michigan House District 93
Graham Filler | Republican (Incumbent)
I live in DeWitt with my wife Alicia, an OB/GYN at Sparrow Hospital, and my daughter Claire who is 2 years old. I was named the MIRS Freshman of the Year in 2019.
Muhammad Salman Rais | Democrat
I have been a resident of Dewitt since 2007 and served community with volunteer work, health education, free medical services and food programs. I am now planning to serve in public office. My professional experience includes work as a family medicine physician and in health administration.
Questionnaire section
Candidates answer questions on major topics
Systemic racism and police brutality are major concerns of mid-Michigan residents. As an elected official, what do you pledge to do to address problems in the community you hope to serve/continue serving?
Lightner: No response.
Rowland: No response.
Smith: First, we should recognize that systemic racism and police brutality are the culmination of centuries of racist policies and practices that were perpetuated by our government. These policies and practices have led to widespread racial disparities in access to quality schools, affordable housing, and the means to build wealth, in addition to inequities in policing and criminal justice. Thus, we must commit ourselves to implementing new policies — policies that begin to correct this long and painful history of racial injustice. Specifically, I will work to end ‘qualified immunity’ for police officers, mandate the establishment of independent review boards to investigate police misconduct, and ensure police resources are focused on training, de-escalation, and community-building. Additionally, I will champion initiatives to bridge other racial inequities, especially in the areas of school funding, housing, and access to health care. This is a complex and multifaceted issue — but the first step is to elect leaders who are committed to addressing it.
Hope: First, we must have zero tolerance for bad actors in our police departments. Departments should reflect and, ideally, be a meaningful, caring part of the communities they serve. Police are public servants: public servants cannot have a “warrior” mindset. An “us against them” approach to policing just reinforces systemic racism and perpetuates brutality.
We must also improve training standards and de-militarize police departments. Here in Michigan, we are taking steps toward these goals. While changes can and must be made at the federal and state levels, ultimately, the most meaningful and lasting changes will be made at the local level in strong partnership with the community.
The House recently passed House Bill 5837, which would improve training standards for state-certified police officers and I recently introduced House Bill 5925, which would ban the use of tear gas as a crowd-control mechanism.
Ross: As a public servant, I will work with our community members and our police force to build public trust and implement common sense solutions that strengthen citizens' civil rights. I support the unanimously passed Michigan State Senate bill that would require police to be trained on implicit bias and de-escalation techniques. I will also seek greater transparency regarding the disclosure of reasons for dismissal of officers when they are excused from duty and move to a new department.
Thomas: Author legislation that would mandate sentencing for law enforcement officers double that of citizens. Author legislation with mandatory sentencing for any officials that cover up for or misrepresent a violation of any public servant. Author legislation making tax dollars for sensitivity training mandatory spending , not only in the academy but in each department across the state every 6 months. In that training having the public conduct public speaking of their personal accounts, so officers can see first hand how actions affect the everyday citizen.
Witwer: I pledge to continue to listen to those who are affected the most stand with change agents and elevate events to advance conversations about racial challenges in our region. Overcoming and breaking down systemic racism requires all of the district and region to work together to bring education, activism, hope, unity, and civility to the solution. In the House, I will advance ideas and meaningful legislation to address concerns and issues raised. I have committed to work with fellow representatives who are former police officers to author and cosponsor meaningful legislation on criminal justice reform packages.
Barnes: I understand better than any candidate/legislator on the ballot for the 71st the reality and ramifications of systemic racism. I am the wife and matriarch of a bi-racial family. I am also proud to have many LEO’s in my family currently employed and retired. This unique perspective of direct impact allows me to articulate the concerns as a family member of both sides of this issue. I will bring clear leadership to this discussion. I will continue to advocate for common-sense solutions that does not marginalize the concerns of our citizens.
Johnsen: Identify areas where we can improve police training, accountability, and support. Establish a law enforcement evaluation matrix to include citizen feedback to incentivize law enforcement funding. Foster peer to peer accountability among law enforcement and first responder personnel.
Anthony: My entire career has been dedicated to expanding opportunities and dismantling systemic racism in education, housing, employment, health, and the criminal justice system. As state representative, I have supported and introduced a number of bills aimed at reforming our criminal justice system, which disproportionately impacts African Americans. This includes reforming police training, increased reporting and transparency, addressing qualified immunity, enhance community oversight, and reallocating resources to address mental health, educational, and other needs.
Atkinson: No response.
Brixie: We can start by banning chokeholds in police training and implement policies that will ensure police departments reflect the communities they serve. But there is so much more we can do to address the public health crisis that is racism. Education and access to healthcare are huge factors.
Many of our tax policies hurt majority minority communities and school districts. We must ensure that every child in Michigan has access to quality affordable education so that they can realize their full potential.
Our healthcare system has also failed the black community. We need affordable healthcare for all.
Norris: No response.
Filler: We love and respect law enforcement in mid-Michigan; police officers I know are sick to see the actions of the Minnesota officers. I am currently working on police training bills in my House judiciary committee; a bipartisan piece of legislative reforms to raise the standard on police training across the state of Michigan.
Salman Rais: Improved police training with cultural competency. No place for any discrimination. I do support police and law enforcement who work hard to keep us safe. Any deficiency in service need to be addressed with proper education and training.
The COVID-19 pandemic hit Michigan hard, resulting in more than 6,000 deaths in the span of three-plus months. How would you rate the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic?
Lightner: No response.
Rowland: No response.
Smith: According to COVID Act Now, a nonprofit coalition of public health and policy experts, Michigan is one of only three states currently on track to contain COVID-19. That is a remarkable turnaround from March, when Michigan was among the states hardest-hit by the coronavirus — and one that would not have been possible without Gov. Whitmer’s leadership. As we proceed in our process of phased reopening, we must continue to build our capacity to test and contact-trace, and encourage continued mask-wearing and physical distancing. We must also take additional measures to mitigate the economic impact of COVID-19 by offering financial relief to families and businesses. COVID-19 presents an unprecedented challenge — but, with the right policies, it is one I am confident we can overcome.
Hope: The governor has done an outstanding job of responding to the pandemic. Her quick, decisive actions significantly reduced the number of infections and deaths in Michigan. She did the absolute best job she could with no overarching national strategy and, unfortunately, not much help from the Michigan Legislature. While my caucus has introduced bills to protect essential workers and to improve the unemployment system, as two examples, the majority has dragged their feet. Their inaction shows that they are more interested in obstructing and making petty partisan attacks. Nobody likes that stuff during the best of times; during a global crisis, it is unconscionable.
Ross: The number of deaths caused by the COVID-19 pandemic is tragic, and the physical, emotional, and spiritual toll on our communities is evident. The more we learn about the virus, the better equipped we are to evaluate the state’s actions. The state legislature worked quickly and nimbly to grant the Governor emergency powers to combat the virus at the onset. Unfortunately, once that order expired, they had little to no input into the governor’s decisions. It would have been much more comforting to the people of the state to have a unified position involving all of their duly elected officials.
Thomas: I have never been so disappointed in our state Government, A disgusting display of party politics. Michigan has a vast medical stock pile that never got used. Michigan has hundreds of millions of dollars in disaster relief and rainy day accounts that never got used. Instead our citizens suffered for political reasons.
Witwer: I rate the state’s response to COVID-19 as very good. I have a healthcare background and maintain close contact with health systems to stay up to date on information as it pertains to COVID-19. We are beginning to see, the decisions our Governor made have shown that Michigan will be less likely to have a second hit like other states are starting to see. This truly was an unprecedented situation. With the tools we had available at the onset, the Governor, made decisions to protect the citizens of our state and contain COVID-19.
Barnes: I am unclear what the State’s response refers to. Are you asking about the Governor’s administration? Are you asking about the constituent’s adherence to safer at home practices? I am not sure since we are still under Emergency Order if we have enough data to analyze and rate anyone’s response yet. Regardless I need to know what I am rating please.
Johnsen: Initially, we all agreed to be conservative and learn the dangers of this novel virus. As a state, we worked together, agreed to preserve life, shelter in place, and take necessary precautions. As time went on, confusion increased, collaboration decreased, and bipartisanship was abandoned. The people lost their voices in their elected legislators. I intend to ensure this never happens again. Presently, our 22% unemployment rate, displaced labor force, and fearful business owners are left hopeless, poor, and discouraged. Many don’t know how they will independently provide for themselves. The state’s response to COVID-19 leaves much room for improvement.
Anthony: I believe that the state of Michigan responded relatively well to the COVID-19 pandemic. The public health crisis was one like we have never experienced, leading to thousands of deaths as well as an economic crisis that impacted thousands of businesses and workers. Despite the lack of support and strategic direction from the federal level, our governor took swift, decisive action to save tens of thousands of lives. We are now seeing evidence that the closures and “stay at home” orders were effective in reducing our COVID-19 deaths.
Atkinson: No response.
Brixie: Gov. Whitmer did an incredible job in flattening the curve. Michigan leads the nation in the reduction of COVID-19 cases while southern states are seeing huge spikes.
The Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) issues preceded the pandemic. The system that is failing residents today was created by Gov. Snyder in 2013 when he eliminated a third of all positions within UIA to pay for business tax cuts. The first thing this system did was falsely accuse over 40,000 residents of fraud, ruining lives. We have to invest properly in state systems and staffing so we can deliver essential services we need.
Norris: No response.
Filler: I am proud of Michigan residents for following social distancing guidelines, especially in March and early April, when the government was working to ensure hospital systems weren’t overrun. I am proud of the legislature appropriating over $100 million quickly to ensure these same hospital systems and our government could take the proper steps necessary to fight COVID-19.
I was hoping for bipartisan cooperation between the Republican legislature and the Governor when it came to crafting legislation, executive orders, and reviewing applicable data for deciding when businesses can reopen. That has not happened; the Governor has taken a unilateral approach to dealing with COVID-19, deciding when businesses open, deciding what regions can open. Unfortunately the legislature is not privy to what information or why certain businesses can reopen. I hope for a better, cooperative approach as the year goes on.
Salman Rais: I am a physician and it is important to educate people about this public health topic. There is no treatment or vaccine for this disease. Social distancing and prevention is only option and the Government is doing what it can do in Michigan.
What are the next steps for the state as it relates to COVID-19, its health ramifications and the rebuilding of the state’s economy?
Lightner: No response.
Rowland: No response.
Smith: COVID-19 has laid bare the racial and socioeconomic inequities present in our state. For example, while African-Americans comprise only 14% of our state’s population, they have suffered over 40% of Michigan’s coronavirus deaths. So, to recover from this pandemic, it is not enough to simply return to a “normal” that isn’t working for all of us. Instead, we should reimagine and rebuild our state’s economic and health care systems by facilitating universal health coverage and ensuring each worker is paid a fair, living wage with adequate benefits, including paid sick leave. Never again should any Michigander be faced with the choice between their health and their financial well-being.
Hope: It is important to acknowledge that long before the pandemic hit, Michigan’s revenues were not keeping up with costs and Michigan is legally required to balance its budget. After 20 years or so of disinvestment in public services, there is little to no “fat” left to cut. Without major federal assistance, Michigan will be in dire straits. We need help to address the ongoing public health crisis as well as our economy. So that’s the first and most important step: implore the federal government for aid.
Unfortunately, whether we get that aid (i.e., our tax dollars) is not totally up to us here in Michigan. In the meantime, the state must stay the course, closely monitoring infections and easing hardships when possible.
Ross: We have bought time to ready our hospitals and have attained more equipment for the next wave should one occur. Going forward it is important to safeguard the most vulnerable segments of our population. If a second wave does occur, the most vulnerable should be encouraged to isolate and be monitored. Those in the low risk category should be able to use their own judgement on what is prudent behavior. For our business community, we must return to normalcy while closely monitoring not just positive tests, but more importantly, the severity of those infected and any increase in hospitalizations.
Thomas: Honesty and transparency would be a great start. You cannot provide an accurate opinion without all of the unbiased and factual numbers.
Witwer: The state still has work to do on our unemployment laws to make access easier for our citizens. Additionally, the state needs to continue a careful watch to keep COVID-19 contained. I personally lost a family member and a friend from this virus. The ramifications of not proceeding carefully are deadly. We are already seeing the rebuilding of our economy with new jobs in our state. Our priority needs to be rebuilding the economy and getting people back to work. People are excited to get back out, get to work and invest in our economy.
Barnes: We need to stop housing COVID-19 patients in facilities with our most vulnerable citizens. We need to open businesses with safe operating procedures and allow Michiganders to go back to work.
Johnsen: Place a temporary moratorium on lawsuits against businesses. Allow businesses to implement precautionary measures that are appropriate for their employees and customers. Ensure the healthcare community has the necessary medications to treat COVID-19 amply, and in a way that is affordable and equitable for all. I am against the restriction of access to any kind of healthcare, whether related to COVID-19 or not. The state should ensure the availability and usage of all possible medication treatments, even those that have been shown to be anecdotally effective.
Anthony: Our state needs to prioritize fixing our state’s unemployment system, which has failed thousands of residents in our community. The state should also work to expand health care for everyone, including essential workers who were on the frontlines during the public health crisis
Atkinson: No response.
Brixie: The next step is for us to adhere to the new norm of social distance, wearing masks and following CDC guidelines to prevent a second wave and help keep businesses open until we’re able to get a vaccine.
We also need more supplies from the federal government so we can test proactively to better treat and trace those who are infected.
Norris: No response.
Filler: The House just passed a supplemental bill with federal money, ensuring that first responders would be properly compensated and the State’s Unemployment Insurance Agency would have more resources; the UIA has been unable to process hundreds of thousands unemployment benefits claims owed to Michigan residents.
Salman Rais: Support for small businesses and education of people about new normal with prevention while living life.
What is one issue currently not on the radar of the Legislature that you’d champion if elected?
Lightner: No response.
Rowland: No response.
Smith: Gun safety. As someone who has been personally affected by gun violence, I understand the devastating toll it has taken on communities and families across our state. Between 2008 and 2016, deaths related to gun violence rose 12.8% in Michigan, yet our state’s gun laws remain dangerously lax. We don't require guns to be stored safely, we haven't implemented universal background checks on gun purchases, and we don't have 'red flag' laws to keep guns out of the hands of people who pose a threat to themselves or others. Gun violence is an epidemic, and I plan to tackle it head-on.
Hope: I have championed the issue of statutory revenue sharing, and I will continue to do so. It’s not that this issue isn’t on the Legislature’s radar: to the contrary, this pot of money has been used to balance the state budget at the expense of local communities. This money rightfully belongs to local communities – no one disputes that. Balancing the budget on the backs of cities, townships, villages, and counties has allowed the Legislature to give huge tax breaks to corporations. They pretend to be anti-tax while their decisions force local units of government either to raise their taxes or to eliminate or reduce services like public safety and parks.
Ross: In the wake of greater reliance on broadband infrastructure for work and communication, I would like to see an emphasis on rural broadband infrastructure, as well as maintenance for existing telecommunication lines. In more remote areas that do not currently have access to broadband, telecommunication reliability is essential for community members. Investing in rural broadband and telecommunications will allow students flexibility for hybrid (online/in-person) classes and will be a conduit for economic development.
Thomas: To have a supervisory committee to oversee everything our elected officials do. Unfortunately, our leaders need babysitters now.
Witwer: Prescription drug cost transparency. Many issues are on the radar, but we need to champion this important issue as people are having to choose between groceries or a house payment and their prescription drugs. We need to have full transparency on the cost of needed medication.
Barnes: Reciprocity with medical and emergency personal licenses
Johnsen: Restore the constitutional balance of power between the branches of government in our state, and with the 10th Amendment at the Federal level. The 10th Amendment delineates the differences between Federal level responsibilities and State level responsibilities. Michigan should not be beholden to the Federal Government in areas not already assigned to the Federal Government. The best solutions for Michigan, come from Michigan and will be tailored the needs of our local communities.
Anthony: Since I was elected in 2018, I have worked to introduce bills to protect families and expand opportunities for the middle class. If re-elected, I will continue to fight to address the physical and financial abuse of senior citizens, create a child care tax credit for working parents, expand educational and training opportunities for low-income students and disconnected workers, address mounting student loan debt, and address disparities in health care.
If I could select one issue to prioritize, it would be closing our state’s skills gap but expanding skilled trades programs and investing to K-12 and post-secondary education.
Atkinson: No response.
Brixie: Our cities are struggling financially and I have a plan to help. For example, Meridian Township is able to fund services at a third of tax rate as Lansing due to how flawed our funding system is for local government and school districts. So if Okemos and Lansing want to build new schools, taxpayers in Lansing will have to pay about three times the property tax rate because the taxable value of land is about one-third based on population.
This plays a significant role in these inequities we must address in order to end racism in our society.
Norris: No response.
Filler: I am going to continue championing a proportional, updated criminal justice system. The Republican House has led the charge on Raise the Age legislation that became law (treating 17 year old kids as minors, not as adults except for heinous crimes) and expungement reforms that will help thousands get jobs and access to loans.
Salman Rais: Agriculture and support for farmers.
Given the recent Supreme Court decision and ongoing efforts to place the issue on an upcoming ballot, do you favor amending the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination at the state level based on a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity?
Lightner: No response.
Rowland: No response.
Smith: Yes. Although the Supreme Court’s recent decision prohibits anti-LGBTQ discrimination in the workplace, LGBTQ Michiganders remain vulnerable to discrimination in housing, healthcare, and other public accommodations. It is unacceptable that — in the year 2020 — you can still be evicted from your apartment or denied medical care simply because of who you are or who you love. It is crucial that we amend the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to include LGBTQ people as a protected class — either through the legislative process or through a ballot initiative.
Hope: Yes. Michigan needs to have its own law on the books to protect its residents. I co-sponsored legislation introduced earlier this year to amend ELCRA to include sexual orientation and gender identity.
Ross: The Supreme Court recently ruled that federal law under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 protects gay and transgender workers from discrimination in employment. All citizens deserve equal rights regarding housing and employment opportunities. Article 4 of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act will also have implications on both religious schools and single-gender schools which will deserve additional discussion. I will work with stakeholders to assure compliance with the federal statute and determine the next steps for Michigan law, while giving interested parties input into the legislation.
Thomas: I will always stand for equality and personal prosperity of our citizens.
Witwer: I do favor amending the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act.
Barnes: I believe that this issue should be taken to the ballot and let the good people in the State of Michigan decide.
Johnsen: I support returning civil rights decisions to our state, instead of being dictated to by the federal government. From the found of our state, Michigan has championed civil rights and equality under the law for all citizens. I have the utmost faith that we will continue to do so in the future, always striving toward finding better ways to protect our individual liberties.
Anthony: Yes, I support amending the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination at the state level based on a person’s sexual orientation and gender identity.
Atkinson: No response.
Brixie: Yes, this issue is near to my heart and has always been one of my top priorities. Two of my children are members of the LGBTQ+ community. What I want is for my kids to live in a world where they don’t have to ‘come out’, they will just say they’re in love, which is all that matters.
We have to flip the House in November and advance the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act reforms over to the Senate for the first time in state history.
We’ve waited far too long. Even the highly conservative U.S. Supreme Court favors LGBTQ+ protections.
Norris: No response.
Filler: No response.
Salman Rais: I am against all type of discrimination. I will do every thing which I can to end discrimination. Not from law making but also from attitude and state of mind through information/education.
The above information was compiled from questionnaires emailed to each candidate. If you have questions about our process, email opinions@lsj.com. To support work like this, consider subscribing. For more information, visit LSJ.com/subscribe.
"House" - Google News
July 17, 2020 at 10:57PM
https://ift.tt/3jh1X92
Election 2020: Candidates for the Michigan House of Representatives - Lansing State Journal
"House" - Google News
https://ift.tt/2q5ay8k
Shoes Man Tutorial
Pos News Update
Meme Update
Korean Entertainment News
Japan News Update
Bagikan Berita Ini
0 Response to "Election 2020: Candidates for the Michigan House of Representatives - Lansing State Journal"
Post a Comment