General Election Voter Guide - Rochester/Rochester Hills by Downtown Publications Inc.

GENERAL ELECTION

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NOVEMBER 6, 2018

VOTER

GUIDE Special Publication of Downtown Newsmagazine

PRESENTED BY THE FOLLOWING COMMUNITY SPONSORS: ASTREIN’S CREATIVE JEWELERS BIRMINGHAM FOOTCARE SPECIALISTS ROBERTS RESTAURANT GROUP SHADES OPTICAL

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VOTER GUIDE 11.18

This November General Election Voter Guide provides readers with candidates' answers to questions posed by Downtown newsmagazine. To be represented in the Voter Guide, candidates had to return a questionnaire. Downtown newsmagazine's recommendations of the best candidate for each of the offices appears on the Endnote page in the final pages of this edition.

8th District U.S. House/ Elissa Slotkin vs. Mike Bishop

11th District U.S. House / Haley Stevens vs. Lena Epstein

12th District Michigan Senate / Rosemary Bayer vs. Michael McCready

Rochester, most of Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, and nearly all of north Oakland County communities, most of Livingston County and Ingham County, including East Lansing.

Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, southwest Rochester Hills, Auburn Hills, west Oakland lakes area and south Oakland County, along with parts of western Wayne County, including Plymouth, Livonia and Canton.

Bloomfield Township, Franklin, Beverly Hills, Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township, along with Orion, Independence and Oxford townships.

13th District Michigan Senate / Mallory McMarrow vs. Marty Knollenberg

40th District Michigan House / Mari Manoogian vs. David Wolkinson

45th District Michigan House/ Kyle Cooper vs. Michael Webber

11th District County Commission/ Ann Erikson Gault vs. Thomas E. Kuhn

15th District County Commission/ Mary Ward vs. Adam Kochenderfer

Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Troy, Clawson, Royal Oak, Berkley.

Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township, along with part of West Bloomfield.

Rochester, Rochester Hills and the lower portion of Oakland Township.

Almost the western half of Rochester Hills, along with the northern portion of Troy and the southeast corner of Auburn Hills.

Rochester and the eastern portion of Rochester Hills.

november 6 general election voter guide Rochester, Rochester Hills, Oakland Township

U.S. HOUSE 8TH DISTRICT ELISSA SLOTKIN DEMOCRAT

Do you support the tax cuts enacted by Congress at the urging of the Trump administration? Explain your position. I support tax reform that lifts up the middle class and Michigan’s small businesses. But I was disappointed that the tax bill passed by Congress gave deep, permanent cuts for the ultra-wealthy and large corporations like the pharmaceutical industry, while giving shallow, temporary cuts to the average taxpayer. I would change that approach and close the enormous number of loopholes that keep many of the ultra-wealthy from paying taxes at all.

struggling with health care due to her preexisting condition of breast cancer as a young mom. The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has made important strides towards expanding coverage for key segments of the population, particularly those with preexisting conditions, like my mom, before she passed away. However, the ACA desperately needs reform, and I believe there is a lot we still must do to bring costs down, and make sure that people who have health insurance can actually access the care they pay for. One critical way to do that is by implementing a public option, a buy-in to Medicare. This could help drive down all health care costs significantly. DACA/IMMIGRATION POLICY

BUDGET/NATIONAL DEBT

Slotkin grew up in Oakland County, graduated from Cranbrook Schools and Cornell University before getting a masters degree from Columbia University. She lives in Holly on her family farm and is married to Dave Moore, a former Apache pilot, who retired as a colonel from the U.S. Army. Slotkin served three tours in Iraq in military intelligence, and worked as a national security expert for both Democratic and Republican administrations. She served at the White House and in top roles at the Pentagon, including as Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs under the Obama Administration. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS When President Trump came to office, he began to roll back a number of environmental regulations enacted by the past administration and reversed a number of decisions dating back to the Clinton administration that were designed to promote a cleaner environment. Do you support the administration’s efforts to minimize environmental regulations? No. Protecting our Great Lakes, inland waters, drinking water and parks must be a key priority for anyone who claims to love this state. As a former national security analyst, I believe we need to start thinking of environmental security the way we think about homeland security: it’s about the safety and security of our kids. By rolling back protections for our environment, our clean air, and our access to clean drinking water, the administration is using the banner of deregulation to threaten our way of life in Michigan. If elected, I would help reinvigorate the Great Lakes caucus; push for a comprehensive, ten-year environmental plan for Michigan – instead of piecemeal initiatives – to preserve the natural gifts we have as a state; and conduct prudent planning to manage and mitigate the impact of warming temperatures.

President Trump has eliminated the policy governing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) that granted deportation relief for immigrants who came here as children (under the age of 16), which was created in 2012 by the Obama administration. Do you support continuation of the DACA program? Should Congress move to find a common ground that will provide a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants?

I believe that the federal budget should be treated like your budget at home: you don’t spend outside your means without a plan to pay for it. The recent tax bill added more than a trillion dollars to our national debt, which isn’t healthy for us as a nation. Coming from a national security background, you never know what national disasters or security crises you may need to deal with in the future, and racking up endless debt is irresponsible. We should close the significant loopholes left open in the latest tax bill, particularly with regard to holding profits or moving American jobs offshore, to help bring the budget back under control, in addition to fat-cutting actions to rein in our national debt. But to be clear, Social Security and Medicare are not fat, and I support neither cuts to them nor privatizing them.

I believe that immigration is a moral, economic, and national security issue. And right now, the immigration system isn’t working for anyone: not Michigan businesses or workers, not undocumented immigrants, not Dreamers, not farmers, or anyone else. Our elected representatives have failed to address the public outcry for reform – we need to pass comprehensive legislation, tailored to our economic needs, that brings in workers when we need their specific skills; provides a pathway to citizenship to young people brought to the United States as kids who are Americans in every way other than their papers; increases border security, especially through technology; we need to hold companies accountable for exploiting undocumented labor, when they undercut our American workers; and provide safehaven, as we have since the Founding Fathers, for refugees escaping death and destruction in their home countries.

NATIONAL HEALTH CARE

GUN CONTROL

Despite attempts by the current administration and Republican members of Congress, a substantial number of persons continue to sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as Obamacare. What is your position on the current Affordable Care Act and the issue of a national health care plan in general?

What is your position on the need for added gun control legislation? Which, if any, of the following gun control measures could you support: Requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons?

I believe figuring out healthcare and healthcare costs is our generational challenge, and we need new representatives in Congress who will get to work on dealing with this issue responsibly – instead of playing politics with our care. It’s also a deeply personal issue, and the one that got me into this congressional race: my mom died of ovarian cancer in 2011 after

Lake Orion

Oakland Twp.

Orion Twp.

Lake Angelus

Rochester

Pontiac

Auburn Hills

Rochester Hills

Sylvan

TAX CUTS

Rochester, most of Rochester Hills, Oakland Township, and nearly all north Oakland County communities, most of Livingston County and Ingham County, including East Lansing.

our Congress has failed to take meaningful action for years. No one expects everyone to agree, but I do expect our elected officials to be willing to have tough conversations and make some sort of progress. I believe that we must pass common-sense gun safety legislation including instituting a robust, universal background check system to prevent terrorists, domestic abusers, and the mentally ill from obtaining guns, prohibit purchase of bump stocks and high-capacity magazines, and raise the age to purchase certain firearms. But we can’t make progress if our elected leaders simply refuse to have a conversation. AUTHORIZING MILITARY ACTIONS Should this or any President be required to consult with Congress before sending our military forces into foreign countries? I’ve served in various defense and intelligence roles under Presidents Obama and Bush, including three tours in Iraq. I’m an Army wife and the step-mom to a current Army officer. So I feel strongly about this issue. Congress has the legal obligation, as given by the U.S. Constitution, to authorize any act of war. Since the Iraq war, we’ve seen little action on the part of our elected representatives to truly demand that authority, and to seek to update the Authorization of Military Force (AUMF). Our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines serving in combat zones today are still operating under the 2001 AUMF, aimed at al Qaeda, because our Congress has backed away from their responsibilities. In Congress, I would serve as a vocal proponent for an update to the AUMF, and start to bring back the appropriate checks and balances in our system set up by our founding fathers. TRADE AGREEMENTS/TARIFFS

I grew up in a gun-owning family. I was trained on a Glock-17 and an M-4 for my three tours in Iraq. And my husband, a retired Army officer, carried a weapon every day he was deployed. So I believe in and support the Second Amendment. It is because of my background that I believe we need to both protect the Second Amendment and be smart about gun safety reforms; this is not an either/or issue. But

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

The current administration has expressed its desire to withdraw from many of the international trade agreements entered into by past administrations. The President has also authorized import tariffs in recent months. Do you agree with the President on the trade agreements? What will the impact be of the import tariffs?

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My great-grandfather started Hygrade Foods – famous for creating the Ballpark Franks at Tigers Stadium. My grandfather bought our family farm in Holly, where a local farmer now grows soybeans and feed corn. Stability is everything for business owners and farmers. So our approach to tariffs needs to be strategic and well thought out, and I’m concerned by some of President Trump’s actions in this area. While it’s unclear what tariffs will ultimately be put in place, I do not believe in unnecessary instability for businesses and farmers, and a trade war with China, should it come to that, leaves both the American consumer and producer a loser. When it comes to trade agreements, I take a principled approach: what does a trade deal do for Michigan businesses, Michigan workers, and will foreign partners be held to the same high quality and human rights standards? This is the scorecard that any trade deal should be graded against. WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? I am running for Congress because I believe our politics must change – and that Congress isn’t going to fix itself. As a national security professional who has served both Democratic and Republican administrations, I know what it means to put politics aside, put your head down, and get to work. To serve. I have been tested in war zones and national security crises, and I know how to bring disparate parties together and hammer out solutions. If elected, I will bring that same mission-focus to expanding real economic opportunity to our communities here in Michigan, fighting for our fundamental rights to safety, security, and health for our kids, and preserving what makes our state great. I will always be governed by the simple idea that our representatives’ job is to be available and serve the public. It’s time to send a different generation of leaders to Congress, and I hope you give me the chance to do it.

MIKE BISHOP REPUBLICAN

Bishop, of Rochester, is the incumbent Congressman of the 8th District, since 2014. Before that, he served two terms in the state House (1999-2003), and two terms in the state Senate (20032011), where he was the Majority Leader. He graduated from University of Michigan and Michigan State University College of Law. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS All Americans deserve clean air to breathe and clean water to drink. And every Michigan family is a part of the heritage of the Great Lakes, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are preserved for generations to come. This does not require a labyrinth of government regulations, some of which do little to actually protect the environment. A National Association of Manufacturers study estimates that compliance with burdensome regulations cost our economy nearly $2 trillion annually. This places a massive disincentive to manufacture, farm, or produce energy in America, costing workers good paying jobs, and driving up costs for families. That is why I’ve supported a reduction in the regulatory burden throughout my time in Congress. In Michigan our economic security is dependent on manufacturing, and our national security is dependent on energy security. I will fight any government overregulations which threaten those imperatives. TAX CUTS Not only did I support it, as a member of the tax-writing Ways and Means Committee, I helped write it. I’m proud that this legislation delivers real relief to nearly every hardworking Michigan family including doubling the standard deduction and the child tax credit, expanding the medical expense deduction, and preserving higher education tax relief for our students. As a result, a typical family of four in Michigan’s Eighth earning $90,000 will see a tax cut of approximately $1,700. We’re also seeing something extremely exciting in our state – jobs returning from Mexico! Fiat Chrysler Truck Assembly Plant is relocating their new Ram Truck production line from Mexico to Michigan, bringing with it 2,500 new jobs. In addition, every Chrysler employee received a bonus check for $2,000 as a result of tax reform. The economy is growing and jobs are returning to the United States – and this is just the beginning. BUDGET/NATIONAL DEBT The national debt and deficit continue to be some of America’s most pressing issues. Effectively dealing with this will require tough fiscal decisions but most importantly we need the growing economy that is resulting from tax reform. We must also continue to cut wasteful spending while protecting the benefits of folks who have paid into the system and need these

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benefits for their retirement. Programs like Social Security and Medicare, which people have earned, need to be strengthened and protected, not cut. Last year, I supported reforms to Medicaid as a part of the American Health Care Act which would have given states more flexibility and delivered a great deal of savings, but the Senate failed to act. I will continue to work toward such reforms to bring fiscal responsibility while protecting Michigan families. I support a balanced budget amendment that will force the government to live within its means. NATIONAL HEALTH CARE Sadly, the Affordable Care Act has failed American families across the nation. Americans are facing higher premiums and out-of-pocket costs, and fewer participating providers. I don’t believe the Affordable Care Act is the right way forward for our nation. My goals are the same as those of Michigan families, to increase quality, reduce costs, and put healthcare decisions back into the hands of the American people. That is exactly what I am working to enact. I voted in support of the Small Business Health Fairness Act, which would allow small businesses to band together to purchase health insurance through an association giving their employees greater access to health coverage at reduced costs. I also voted for legislation recently signed into law that provides a two-year extension of funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers, also known as community health centers, which provide affordable health care to low-income Americans. DACA/IMMIGRATION POLICY Our immigration system is broken and our borders are not secure. I support legislation that secures the border, transitions away from chain migration to a merit based system, eliminates the Visa lottery and cracks down on sanctuary cities. It would also provide stability for the DACA recipients who are here through no fault of their own by restoring the DACA program without giving a special pathway to citizenship. This is a reasonable and commonsense approach which will treat those currently protected by DACA with compassion so they can continue to work and study here while also protecting the sovereignty of our nation by restoring the rule of law. GUN CONTROL The House has been taking action on this important issue. In March, legislation I supported was signed into law that will strengthen our nation’s gun background check system (NICS). This is vital to ensure criminal histories are accurately reported to the national background check database. I have supported banning bump stocks and submitted a letter encouraging a ban. But there are those who would propose a ban on a wide-range of

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

commonly-used firearms, which I don’t believe will solve the problem. I voted for the Violence Against Law Enforcement Officers and Ensuring Officer Resilience and Survivability (VALOR) Initiative, which trains law enforcement to handle active shooter situations, provides increased grant funding to train teachers, first responders, and others to identify and aid someone with mental health issues before a crisis occurs. I also voted for the bipartisan STOP School Violence Act (H.R. 4909) which increased grant funding for school security from $30 million to $75 million for the next ten years. AUTHORIZING MILITARY ACTIONS The decision to send American service members into harm’s way is something every American takes very seriously, and I believe it must only be done when vital U.S. interests or those of our allies are at risk. While the President does have the unilateral power to deploy U.S. forces in combat to protect our national interests from imminent threat, the President is required to consult with Congress beforehand, and must seek Congressional authorization to continue such a deployment beyond 90 days. There are also two existing Authorizations for the Use of Military Force (AUMFs) on the books that Congress enacted in the aftermath of 9/11. These AUMFs provide the President with broad authority to fight terrorism overseas. I believe that any future effort to expand the authorities granted by these two AUMFs should be fully debated by the people’s representatives in Congress and passed into law before action is taken. TRADE AGREEMENTS/TARIFFS I believe in free trade, but it must be fair trade. We should pursue level trade rules for American manufacturers, farmers, and small businesses given that they must compete in the global market. I support modernizing NAFTA and applaud the Trump Administration’s successful renegotiation of the U.S.-South Korea Free Trade Agreement which has achieved fair treatment for U.S. auto exports. Bad actors like China have distorted world markets through currency manipulation and theft of intellectual property bringing the loss of American jobs and entire industries. This must be confronted. In response, the Trump Administration has threatened tariffs while also entering negotiations with nations like China. I’ve heard from a number of small businesses right here in Michigan who are concerned these tariffs could harm their businesses, and I understand their concerns. Going forward, please know that I will continue to fight for American producers and American workers.

november 6 general election voter guide Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Rochester Hills

U.S. CONGRESS - 11TH DISTRICT HALEY STEVENS DEMOCRAT

Congress at the urging of the Trump administration? Explain your position. After years and years of corporate executives buying seats in Congress, Donald Trump and Washington Republicans repaid the debt to their donors and then some with a massive tax giveaway to people who need it the least. They might call that bill a “tax cut;” I call it a massive return on investment for the wealthy donors who bought their members of Congress and expected something in return. I could never support that kind of approach to policymaking. We need to stop giving out millions and billions and – in this case – $1.5 trillion in tax breaks like they are party favors. Let’s target tax breaks for the middle class families who work hard and just want to get ahead. BUDGET/NATIONAL DEBT

Stevens currently lives in Rochester Hills after growing up in Birmingham. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees at American University, and served as chief of staff of President Obama's Auto Rescue, and worked for the White House Office for Manufacturing Policy and Office of Recovery for Automotive Communities and Workers. Recently, she led a national workforce development program. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS When President Trump came to office, he began to roll back a number of environmental regulations enacted by the past administration and reversed a number of decisions dating back to the Clinton administration that were designed to promote a cleaner environment. Do you support the administration’s efforts to minimize environmental regulations? Absolutely not. President Trump’s reckless rollback of environmental protection standards not only damages our environment but hurts our economy. Like it or not, climate change is real and we need to start acting accordingly or we will not be able to compete with the rest of the world. I served as Chief of Staff on President Obama’s auto rescue. When our auto industry was in crisis we not only helped save GM and Chrysler, we did it while improving fuel efficiency standards and spurring American auto companies to build the cars of the future. We designed and implemented Cash for Clunkers, an incentive-based program that allowed consumers to trade in old, environmentally inefficient vehicles for 21st century models. I don’t buy the argument that we can have a clean environment or cars but we can’t have both; for over a decade Detroit’s automotive industry has shown the opposite. TAX CUTS Do you support the tax cuts enacted by

In the most recent budget adopted by Congress, and in tax legislation approved by both the House and Senate, the national debt has continued to skyrocket. There has been talk of Congress now attempting to reduce the deficit by cutting back on programs such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid. Do you support trimming these programs to reduce the budget? Are there other areas of the budget that should be targeted to bring the budget back under control and over time reduce the national debt? Social Security and Medicare are a promise we made to America’s working families – our guarantee that if you work hard and put your time in you will be able to retire with dignity. That means financial and health security without forcing your kids to pay for your ability to get by. That is why we need to strengthen Social Security and Medicare, not cut them. It is unfathomable that Donald Trump and Republicans in Washington think it is OK to hand out a $1.5 trillion tax giveaway while trying to balance our national debt on the backs of the people who need our help the most. That is true for Medicaid, too. I would never support a plan that cuts these critical benefits, and to strengthen them I would start by cutting Trump’s $1.5 trillion tax giveaway to the wealthy. NATIONAL HEALTH CARE Despite attempts by the current administration and Republican members of Congress, a substantial number of persons continue to sign up for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, sometimes referred to as Obamacare. What is your position on the current Affordable Care Act and the issue of a national health care plan in general? The two biggest things President Obama accomplished were the Auto Rescue and Obamacare. I stepped up and served as Chief of Staff for the Auto Rescue when our economy was in crisis, and now that Donald Trump is creating a healthcare crisis

I’m stepping up again and running for Congress. I supported the Affordable Care Act and do not believe it is Congress’s job to remove people from their healthcare plans without alternatives. Let’s protect and improve Obamacare, not sabotage it. Let’s ensure that everyone has access to health coverage, that we tackle the costs of prescription drugs and bring forward a public option. It is time we focus first on how to meet Americans’ healthcare needs, then focus on how we get our healthcare companies to step up to the challenge. Profits should never be put before people. DACA/IMMIGRATION POLICY President Trump has eliminated the policy governing Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) that granted deportation relief for immigrants who came here as children (under the age of 16), which was created in 2012 by the Obama administration. Do you support continuation of the DACA program? Should Congress move to find a common ground that will provide a path to citizenship for illegal immigrants? For generations, families have come to America seeking a better life for themselves, their children, and their grandchildren. We are a nation of immigrants, but sadly our immigration system today is broken. It can and must be fixed without tearing apart families who come here in pursuit of the American dream. I support the DACA program and our Dreamers because I do not believe Congress should be in the business of punishing children brought to this country through no choice of their own. Many of our Dreamers know no other country or home and serve our nation proudly. We must pass common sense legislation to fix DACA and our immigration system so that America will always be the city upon the hill we strive to be. GUN CONTROL What is your position on the need for added gun control legislation? Which, if any, of the following gun control measures could you support: Requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons? In Congress I will be the NRA’s worst nightmare. My commitment is that on day one of the 116th Congress, I will have issued a letter to every single one of my colleagues asking them to join me in passing gun safety legislation that will include universal background checks, reinstating the assault rifle ban from 1994, “no-fly-no buy” provisions, banning bump stocks, and raising the age in which individuals can purchase guns. I made this commitment on January 3, 2018, one year before I plan to follow through on it. Our country’s gun violence epidemic is not

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Hills

ntiac

eld

Rochester Hills

Troy

Bloomfield Hills

Birmingham

Clawson

going away and Michiganders can count on me to continue being an outspoken advocate for gun violence prevention. It is time we elect bold and courageous leaders willing to take on tough challenges – I will be one of them. AUTHORIZING MILITARY ACTIONS Should this or any President be required to consult with Congress before sending our military forces into foreign countries? Going to war with a country is one of the most grave and serious decisions any President can make. It costs time and money and, most importantly, the lives of the most patriotic Americans – our service members. We cannot afford to make that decision lightly. It does not matter if our President is a Democrat, a Republican, an Independent, or a reality TV show host – he or she must consult with Congress before committing an act of war. TRADE AGREEMENTS/TARIFFS The current administration has expressed its desire to withdraw from many of the international trade agreements entered into by past administrations. The President has also authorized import tariffs in recent months. Do you agree with the President on the trade agreements? What will the impact be of the import tariffs? I oppose NAFTA and other free trade deals that hurt American workers, but, as with all things, Donald Trump’s approach creates massive dysfunction and inconsistency. While I agree we need to renegotiate trade agreements to make them more beneficial for workers, the President’s inconsistent approach to trade and import tariffs troubles me. WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? In 2009, economists were singing Detroit’s swan song. The auto industry was in crisis. Analysts wanted to let Detroit go bankrupt.

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november 6 general election voter guide

I disagreed: I believed then, as I do today, that Detroit hustles harder. So I went to Washington and hustled, serving as chief of staff for President Obama’s auto rescue that helped save more than 200,000 jobs. I’m running for Congress because I see a different kind of crisis today: Donald Trump’s reckless agenda is hurting us and raising healthcare costs. America’s working families can’t afford inaction – we need real leadership, and that’s what Michiganders can expect from me. I’m a Seaholm alum and proud product of this district. I got into this race when it didn’t seem easy but I outraised the incumbent and soon after he announced his retirement. I’ve delivered for Michigan before and voters should choose me because I’ll always deliver for Michigan in Congress.

LENA EPSTEIN REPUBLICAN

to succeed. We need to cut waste and abuse; however, I will protect Medicare and Social Security and make certain we keep our promises to our seniors. NATIONAL HEALTH CARE First and foremost, we need to ensure those with pre-existing conditions are covered. But, we can cover pre-existing conditions without messing with everyone else’s healthcare plan. The Affordable Care Act caused many to lose their healthcare plans. And under the ACA, we saw out-ofpocket costs sharply increase. I support federal subsidies for state-run high-risk pools or any sort of state-run program that will provide coverage for those with preexisting conditions. I support the federal government block granting Medicaid funding to the states. And, young people should be able to stay on their parent’s healthcare until they are 26. When we talk about healthcare, I firmly believe we can find solutions that work for everyone.

by way of job creation and not by way of Washington, DC. I am an outsider. DC elites got us into this mess, they will not get us out. We need more practical problem solvers who have accomplishments in the private sector. I am reaching across the aisle and taking my message to Democrats, Independents and Republicans alike. I have created jobs. I have signed both sides of a paycheck. When I look at a bill or proposed policy, I can tell what the impact on jobs will be. My primary mission is job creation. We live in a special place. This district has a rich diversity. We have people from every walk of life, but we all agree that we want more opportunities. I will work to keep southeast Michigan a special place where persecuted people can seek refuge, where business owners can set up shop, and every child grows up knowing that they have a shot at the American dream. We need to work together and I’m ready to unite the people of this district and be their voice in Washington, DC.

DACA/IMMIGRATION POLICY I support enforcing our current laws. I want to secure our borders. I also believe it is vitally important that we reunite families with children and work to keep families together. GUN CONTROL I support the right to keep and bear arms. I support enforcing our current laws more stringently. AUTHORIZING MILITARY ACTIONS

Epstein, a resident of Bloomfield Township, is a co-owner of Vesco Oil. She has an economics degree from Harvard and an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. ENVIRONMENTAL REGULATIONS

Our President is the Commander in Chief of the military. He cannot declare war; only Congress can. However, he has broad powers in dictating military operations. The proper course of action for a president to take depends on the nature of the situation. Generally, I would prefer more congressional oversight. However, there are times when a president must act swiftly and will not be able to consult Congress.

I support the President’s efforts to roll back outdated regulations that place an undue burden on our economy and businesses in southeast Michigan. I strongly support efforts to protect our Great Lakes so that our children and grandchildren can continue to enjoy them and help keep out tourism economy strong.

I support the President’s efforts to renegotiate trade deals that have put American workers at a disadvantage. The result will be better deals for working families of southeast Michigan and across the country.

TAX CUTS

WHY YOU

I support the tax cuts. They have enabled the citizens of southeast Michigan to keep their hard earned money and invest it as desired. The result has been economic growth; our GDP was up by 4 percent last cycle. The tax cuts are working.

I am a member of the community of southeast Michigan with deep ties to the business and Jewish community. I have lived almost my entire life right here in southeast Michigan. I grew up here, I am raising my family here. My husband, Eric, and I are getting ready to celebrate our daughter, Emma’s, first birthday. We want America to offer Emma and all of our nation’s children the tremendous opportunities that it offered me. I am a business leader who comes to the district

BUDGET/NATIONAL DEBT I support a full audit of the Pentagon. However, I also support our military and will work to get our troops whatever they need

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TRADE AGREEMENTS/TARIFFS

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

SPEAK TRUTH TO POWER It does little good to sit on the couch and complain, then not exercise your voting rights. Registered voters have the power to decide who will make the policy decisions that set the public agenda. Your vote is the most direct way to communicate with those in power. So if you are not registered to vote in the November 6 general election, then call your local municipal clerk today. Make sure you speak truth to power this election. 7B

november 6 general election voter guide Oakland Township

STATE SENATE - 12TH DISTRICT ROSEMARY BAYER DEMOCRAT

underground tanks), and countless (huge) numbers of lead water pipes to be replaced. We need the DEQ strongly funded to lead, identify and manage all these activities for the health of our people and environment.

roads. Tapping the rainy day fund may be necessary. But only if it includes a long term plan to restore our budget to a sustaining level, where everyone pays a fair share and schools, infrastructure and the environment are funded adequately to sustain our quality of life.

GUN REGULATIONS CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS Because Congress has failed to act on proposed increased regulation of gun ownership, a number of states have taken the initiative to address the issue. Should Michigan be taking the lead on gun control? Would you support requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons? Red flag laws?

Bayer lives in Beverly Hills, and has computer science and math degrees from Central Michigan University and an MBA from Lawrence Technical University. She is the co-founder and chief inspiration officer of a database technology company, and is co-founder of Michigan Council of Women in Technology. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Michigan has a rich history of protecting the environment but in recent years there have been several legislative attempts to restrict the DEQ as to rule-making to implement laws of the state, including the now pending legislation that would place control of future rule-making with an appointed committee comprised of special interests, including factions of the business community. There has long been a realization that the DEQ is underfunded in terms of being able to carry out its mission of protecting the quality of life in the state. Do you agree with recent attempts to curtail the DEQ? Do you feel that more funding needs to be allocated to the DEQ for enforcement purposes? I would allocate more funds to the DEQ to compensate for 18 years of budget reductions, particularly severe cuts in the last eight years. This year’s reduced funds included cuts for: lead and copper water system testing; cleanup of vapor intrusion sites like the emergency cleanup recently experienced in Franklin; chemical sites; waterfront and state park cleanups and emergency cleanups; the recycling program; and more. Michigan DEQ failed its last federal audit, due to critical shortages in people and knowledge. We need to reinvest here, rapidly. We are facing an estimated 11,000 PFAS (water contamination) sites that must be cleaned up, plus an identified 4,000 vapor intrusion sites (hazardous chemical vapors from

Yes. Since Congress failed to act, Michigan must act to protect our children from senseless gun violence. I support common sense gun regulation including expanded background checks, closing loopholes like gun show exceptions, implementing red flag laws and banning military style weapons and bump stocks for non-military use. In addition to sensible regulations, we need to invest in providing school counselors again. They serve as the front line defense to identify and help those who may take violent action in schools. And we must properly fund and restructure our state’s decimated mental health system. It is an outrage that red flag law legislation has languished on the desk of the head of the House committee who could have brought it to the legislative body over one year ago. He is now running for state Senator in another district. He, and all who take no positive action, should be defeated. ROAD REPAIRS While the state has announced that $175 million will be disbursed this year for road and bridge repairs, do you feel that is sufficient while we wait three more years for the road funding proposal to finally kick in? Should the state rainy day fund be tapped in the interim, as some have suggested? Our state road commission reports road funding needs at $4 billion annually. Instead, the current administration cut road funding from $3.3 billion to $1.9 billion. Adding $175 million doesn’t dent a $1.4 billion annual reduction. Corporate tax cuts, seven years ago, eliminated over $2 billion annually, forcing cuts in roads, schools, etc.. Like all “trickle down” attempts, this failed completely. We haven’t recovered the $2 billion per year, let alone seen growth. Pushing this cost to taxpayers through additional user fees continues to shift the burden from corporations to people, including carrying the burden of the heaviest nationwide trucks on Michigan

Michigan has developed a reputation as one of the most deregulated school environments in the country, with the largest number of charter schools – 80 percent of which are for-profit ventures. Charter schools were originally billed as a cure for declining student achievement and inequality, but a number of reports in the last few years show that 70 percent of the state’s charter schools are in the lower rungs of student achievement reviews. Lawmakers in Lansing, however, have on more than one occasion rejected tightening the overview of charter schools and have allowed for their continued growth. Should there be more state control over charter schools for performance and finances? Does the ongoing expansion of charter schools threaten the public schools K12 system that we have relied on for education? Increase charter school controls; eliminate for-profit charter funding. Michigan’s K-12 system is among the U.S. weakest. Since 2008, as charters exploded, Michigan students dramatically declined in reading/math with national data showing systemic deterioration: all students, all schools, regardless of race, economic strata. 2018 Brookings Institution national analysis ranked Michigan last in proficiency improvement. EMO’s operate 80 percent of Michigan charters, versus 16 percent nationally. With the most for-profit charter schools and minimal oversight, even staunch charter advocates blanch. Companies that own for-profit charters protect return on investment but don’t ensure learning. Seventy percent are in the bottom 50 percent, and 16 are on the Michigan Education Department’s list of 21 failing schools. Charters selectively enroll; kids not at the top or needing help cannot enter or obtain support – unlike public schools. We should stop giving tax dollars to for-profit entities, and establish charter performance/finance control. Public funding without accountability is profoundly irresponsible. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION What is your position on the marijuana legalization proposal appearing on the November ballot? I’m glad the issue is on the 2018 general ballot for Michigan voters to decide, and I will vote yes on the ballot proposal.

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

12 Oakland Twp.

Bloomfield Township, Franklin, Beverly Hills, Pontiac, Auburn Hills, Oakland Township, along with Orion, Independence and Oxford townships.

ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY Although Michigan has 1973 Act (196) to regulate conduct of public officials, it is considered less than rigorous when it comes to legislative ethics and transparency, leaving Michigan ranked near the bottom in comparative studies with other states. Would you support financial disclosure by state lawmakers? What about including the governor’s office and the legislature when it comes to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act, from which they are now exempt? Would you support a bill that prohibits “Pay to Play” when it comes to lawmakers approving contracts with companies or people who are campaign contributors? Are there any other areas that need to be addressed if we are to strengthen ethics/transparency laws/rules in Michigan as they apply to the legislature and administrative offices? I support all initiatives mentioned: financial disclosure for state lawmakers, removing FOIA exemption for all branches including the governor, and prohibiting “pay to play” for legislators approving contracts. In addition, since much money in politics is contributions to campaign funds, I will work to eliminate all “dark money” contributions, requiring full disclosure of PAC donors. I would also limit total contribution from all types of PACs or individuals to each candidate; and limit the amount a candidate can spend per election cycle as well as the time candidates are allowed to campaign. I support any effort to eliminate contributions, gifts, travel, from lobbyists and PACs to our state legislators. I think transparency in Michigan government is long overdue. My leadership philosophy has always been based on full information disclosure and transparency. I will continue to run my Senate office that way, and encourage colleagues to do the same. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE Are you pro-life or pro-choice? If you are pro-life, are there any exceptions

NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

november 6 general election voter guide

to prohibitions on abortions that you find acceptable? Explain your position on this issue.

CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS

MICHAEL MCCREADY REPUBLICAN

I am pro-choice. I fully support a woman’s right to make her own health care decisions. I am endorsed by Emily’s List, Michigan List and Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan. CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS Should the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act be amended to extend civil rights protections in housing and employment to include sexual orientation? Why or why not? Yes. The claim that the existing ElliottLarsen Civil Rights Act is sufficient protection for LGBTQ+ people is inaccurate, particularly since our Attorney General issued a statement in July 2018 stating explicitly that the Act does not extend protections to LGBTQ+ people. All people are people. Constitutionally, and morally, all people deserve the same rights and protections, period. There is no acceptable discrimination. In our history, every time we try to separate human beings, and discriminate against some group of people, we are later proven wrong and need to make amends. This is just another case of doing that, and setting our government up for extensive future reparations. This is unconscionable. It simply exemplifies the current government’s desire to punish those who are not “the same” as the majority in our government today. WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? I bring a set of skills/experiences that our government sorely lacks. First, I am not a career politician. I’ve had a successful career solving real problems in the real world. I am a software engineer, leader, business owner, with decades of experience collaborating with teams who don’t always agree, building innovative solutions to reduce costs while making things work better. I bring a lifetime of civic achievements, improving lives and communities, including co-founding a non-profit that brings technology education and support to thousands of women and girls across Michigan. I am a mom, wife, daughter, aunt, sister – I bring the caring commitment I learned in all those roles. Lastly, I know how to listen and be of service. District 12’s citizens deserve more than career politicians who accomplish little, follow the party line, and ignore what people need, especially in public education, public health, personal healthcare and environmental protection.

NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

I support the rights of parent to have the ultimate choice in the educational path for their children. Charters are one of the many options that should be available, in addition to traditional public schools as well as parochial, private and home schooling. Regardless of the avenue our educational system as a whole must be held to strict standards to ensure that we are properly preparing our future generations for the challenges they will face. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION

McCready, a business owner from Bloomfield Township, is the current state Representative for the 40th District, a position he has held since 2012. Prior to that, he was a mayor and city commissioner for Bloomfield Hills, and served on the city's planning board and zoning board of appeals. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION The beauty and wonder of our natural environment is an integral part of our state’s identity as well as it is a powerful economic driver of Michigan’s robust tourism industry. The Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) should be a partner with our business community to continue to help drive economic growth, while preserving our natural beauties for the next generation.

My colleagues and I in the legislature worked diligently in 2016 to implement a new and improved regulatory framework for medical marijuana, to give those legitimately suffering from debilitating conditions or disease more flexibility, and safety when pursuing medical marijuana as a treatment option as well as give marijuana producers more certainty in the market. I believe that we should continue to allow that system to work before moving to the step of legalization of recreational marijuana. ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY Transparency is an important facet of a government that is accountable to the people, and that is why I support transparency for both the legislature and the governor. I have voted twice (2016 and 2017), to apply the Freedom of information Act to the legislature and the governor’s office. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE I am proudly pro-life. The only exception is when the life of the mother is in danger.

GUN REGULATIONS

CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS

Discussions on firearms are always contentious and divisive, but we can all agree that government should work to keep firearms out of the hands of those who should not have them. I support working towards that goal while also not infringing on the rights of law abiding citizens. Because of this I would support implementing a red flag law in Michigan, but only if it includes strong protections for due process and stringent penalties for frivolous complaints.

I don’t believe any changes are needed to the Elliot Larsen Civil Rights Act. The act already includes sex as a protected class, which has been interpreted by the courts to include members of the of the LGBT community.

ROAD REPAIRS There is no debate that our roads, particularly in Oakland County, are in serious need of repair. I supported allocating the $175 million dollars to be used for road funding but more is needed. It is why I have publicly supported spending the higher than expected forecasted revenues directly to road repair. In addition, Act 51, which determines that distribution of road dollars to counties and cities, needs to be overhauled to better reflect the higher need of more populous counties which have larger road systems that see more use.

WHY YOU I have lived most my life in the Bloomfield area of Oakland County. From humble means I started my own business, McCready and Associates, which celebrates its 28th year anniversary next year, and raised a family. My experience in business and from serving in local government, has given me insight to the challenges faced by local governments and the residents who call our community home. Having served in the legislature as the Representative for the 40th District, I now understand the complicated appropriations process which ultimately determines where we invest the taxpayers’ dollars. These experiences have given me the necessary tools to represent our communities and their needs in the Michigan State Senate.

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

CAST A BALLOT FROM HOME Can’t make it to the polls on Tuesday, November 6? You can request an absentee ballot from your local municipal clerk’s office. Simply phone your local clerk’s office and ask for an absentee ballot application. The application will arrive by mail at the address you supply. Fill it out and mail it back. Your local clerk will then mail you a ballot to vote in the November 6 election.

november 6 general election voter guide Rochester, Rochester Hills

STATE SENATE - 13TH DISTRICT MALLORY MCMORROW DEMOCRAT

McMorrow, of Royal Oak, has a degree in car and industrial design from Notre Dame. She is a self-employed industrial designer. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Michigan has a rich history of protecting the environment but in recent years there have been several legislative attempts to restrict the DEQ as to rule-making to implement laws of the state, including the now pending legislation that would place control of future rule-making with an appointed committee comprised of special interests, including factions of the business community. There has long been a realization that the DEQ is underfunded in terms of being able to carry out its mission of protecting the quality of life in the state. Do you agree with recent attempts to curtail the DEQ? Do you feel that more funding needs to be allocated to the DEQ for enforcement purposes? Environmental protection is one area where we can’t afford to let the market decide. As the Great Lakes state and home to 21 percent of the world’s fresh water supply, we have a unique responsibility to protect our water and environment. We need an independent body to oversee that protection. I’ll always support collaborative efforts with the business community to develop sustainable solutions that move us all forward, but we should not let biased corporate interests self-regulate. I support more funding for the DEQ to adequately protect our water and environment for generations to come, especially in the wake of reductions in the EPA on the federal. We must protect our Great Lakes. GUN REGULATIONS Because Congress has failed to act on proposed increased regulation of gun

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ownership, a number of states have taken the initiative to address the issue. Should Michigan be taking the lead on gun control? Would you support requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons? Red flag laws? Michigan is in the Top 10 Most Concerning States for violence and threats of violence against schools. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for young people ages 10-24, with research indicating that the decision to take one’s life is often impulsive and made more dangerous by easy access to a firearm. We need to take lobbying for gun-maker profits out of politics and pursue common-ground legislation that protects Michiganders while respecting the Second Amendment. Research shows that despite rhetoric from organizations like the NRA, a majority of Americans favor various measures on regulation, including expanded background checks, banning bump stocks, and passing Red Flag laws that would temporarily remove firearms from those deemed a threat to themselves or others. I support these efforts and would work collaboratively with conservationists, hunters, gun owners and non-gun owners alike to forward solutions that put the safety of residents first.

originally billed as a cure for declining student achievement and inequality, but a number of reports in the last few years show that 70 percent of the state’s charter schools are in the lower rungs of student achievement reviews. Lawmakers in Lansing, however, have on more than one occasion rejected tightening the overview of charter schools and have allowed for their continued growth. Should there be more state control over charter schools for performance and finances? Does the ongoing expansion of charter schools threaten the public schools K12 system that we have relied on for education? We need to authorize and oversee charter schools the same way we oversee public schools. While Michigan’s education rankings continue to drop to some of the worst in the nation, we should take a page from Massachusetts which consistently ranks at or near the top for both public and charter schools. We should disallow private, for-profit charters who put their financial bottom line before students. We should hold all charters to the same standards as public schools. Charter and public schools can co-exist to benefit all students and should be overseen by one unifying State Board of Education. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION What is your position on the marijuana legalization proposal appearing on the November ballot?

I support the ballot proposal to legalize and regulate marijuana like alcohol.

CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS

Transparency, accountability, and accessibility are some of my top priorities – and further some of my strongest personal values. I know that much of our cultural and political divide stems from people lacking trust in those who purport

On roads alone, Oakland County residents pay an average of $865 per year on car repairs due to bad roads. A recent analysis from the Detroit Free Press of Governor Snyder’s 2011-2017 budgets highlights a staggering shift in tax burden from corporations to residents. While corporate taxes shrunk by $1.2 billion, or 57.1 percent, personal income taxes increased by $2.5 billion, or 32 percent. Businesses benefit from these public services and infrastructure as much as residents and they should be required to pay their fair share to ensure we have adequate funds to provide public services and infrastructure.

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Rochester

Rochester Hills

Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Berkley, Clawson, Franklin, Royal Oak, Rochester, Rochester Hills and Troy.

to represent them. We need to do everything in our power to make the process transparent. I support opening up the Governor’s office and legislature to FOIA, requiring disclosure of finances and potential conflicts of interest, prohibiting “Pay to Play” and reversing Michigan’s “Citizen’s United on Steroids” law which has allowed unlimited amounts of money into our campaign process. Additionally, I wholly support Proposition 2 which would eliminate partisan gerrymandering of the state’s electoral districts and create an independent redistricting commission, ensuring every voter that their voice and vote truly matters. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE Are you pro-life or pro-choice? If you are pro-life, are there any exceptions to prohibitions on abortions that you find acceptable? Explain your position on this issue. I am fiercely pro-choice and will always fight for a woman’s right to choose and have access to necessary reproductive healthcare. I’m against any efforts to limit that access. Recent efforts in states like Colorado have shown that the most effective way to reduce the number of unwanted pregnancies and abortions is to increase access to science-based sex education and contraception, and in that state’s case – they were able to reduce the overall rate of teen pregnancies and abortions by over 40 percent over a sixyear period by providing long-term contraceptive devices to young women free of charge. As a woman who was raised Catholic and attended the University of Notre Dame, I deeply understand how personal this issue is for so many, but I challenge the notion that we cannot find common ground on this emotionallycharged issue to protect women’s healthcare while simultaneously reducing unwanted pregnancies. The data is there. . CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS Should the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights

NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

november 6 general election voter guide

Act be amended to extend civil rights protections in housing and employment to include sexual orientation? Why or why not? Yes. Legislators have a responsibility to serve and protect all Michiganders, and it’s shameful that in 2018 our LGBTQ residents are not guaranteed the same protections from discrimination as the rest of us. I was heartened to see the Civil Rights Commission vote in May to expand the interpretation of the term “sex” to include sexual orientation but was incredibly disheartened to see Lansing Republicans then move to have that interpretation invalidated only a few short months later. It’s time we amend Elliott-Larsen to explicitly include all Michiganders, once and for all. WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? I got into this race for no other reason than to try to make Michigan better – for us, and for the next generation. I bring more than a decade of proven high-level management, creativity, collaboration and problem-solving as an industrial designer and creative director for companies like Mattel, Mazda, and Gawker Media to offer a fresh new approach to our politics. I’m the only candidate who has committed, if elected, to relinquish my current job in order to focus 100 percent of my time and energy on being your state Senator. Like so many people I talk to, I’m tired of feeling like our system is broken, and of the divisive rhetoric we hear every day that keeps us apart more than it brings us together. I’d be honored to represent you, to hear and share your stories, and to work with you to create a Michigan that works for everyone.

MARTY KNOLLENBERG

County resident and graduate of Bloomfield Hills Schools and Albion College. He was an Oakland County commissioner from 2003-2007, a state Representative, 2007-2012, and since 2014, the state Senator for the 13th District. He owns an insurance company and Sedona Taphouse in Troy. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Stakeholders impacted by DEQ decisions should have a voice at the table, but ultimate DEQ rulemaking and enforcement should – and does – reside with the department. I support a robust DEQ that has the resources and tools to protect our environment, using measurable and scientifically proven methods. Further, I oppose the untrue scare tactics that some are using for political purposes. I was disappointed to hear my opponent tell an interviewer that Birmingham's water supply is tainted with lead. It's not. This sort of intentional fearmongering has no place in our public discourse, and makes it more difficult for those of us who care about the environment to achieve consensus.

There has to be a balance. Some parents view charters as the right fit for their children. They like having that option, and we must have a place for them. But at the same time, it must be a fair option. I'm concerned that charter (and cyber) schools are cherry picking the most able students, and leaving the most costly students for traditional public schools. That's not fair to traditional public schools. I have a unique perspective on this. I was born hard of hearing, which wasn't discovered until I was three-and-a-half years old. I credit my public school teachers for helping me catch up with my peers. Because of my teachers, and all that they did for me in helping me reach my potential, education has become my passion. I’m especially sympathetic to the mission of traditional public schools. They must be protected from unfair competition. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION

The federal government needs to enforce existing gun laws. Under current federal law, individuals barred from purchasing a firearm because of mental health issues often are still able to do so because local law enforcement cannot access their health information in a timely manner because of HIPPA privacy rules. The federal bureaucracy makes it very difficult for our local law enforcement to do its job, and that has to change – but that's a change that has to occur at the federal level. Further, a key component to this is school safety. I was the only Senate Republican to vote to allow schools to have gun free zones. Local schools and communities should decide what’s best for them, not Lansing. I oppose loopholes to purchasing a firearm. I support banning bump stocks. I do not support banning firearms based on cosmetics, but on what they do. I support red flag laws. ROAD REPAIRS

NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS

GUN REGULATIONS

REPUBLICAN

Knollenberg, of Troy, is a lifelong Oakland

process. It was a missed opportunity. Tapping the rainy day fund is shortsighted. We should save that money to protect our vulnerable citizens during the next economic downturn.

Michigan is investing an additional $800 million into roads and bridges this year, not $175 million. And I’m pleased to have obtained additional funding this summer for important road projects in my district. Roads didn't crumble overnight, but over the past generation – under both Republican and Democratic administrations. It's disappointing that Senate Democrats refused to work with Republicans on a bipartisan roads solution; choosing, instead, not to offer any legislation or amendments, and then – with the exception of one Senator – all voting NO on the final bill. Democrats wanted a campaign issue more than they wanted their constituents to have good roads. We could have done so much more for our citizens had they participated in the

I personally oppose the legalization of recreational marijuana, and I’m voting against the ballot proposal in November. This ballot proposal will create a Wild West environment for recreational marijuana similar to that which Michigan experienced for 10 years following legalization of medicinal marijuana. However, I respect the will of the people and will abide by their decision.

post first trimester, late-term, Downs syndrome, gender selection, etc…People of good will can disagree on this issue. It's not black or white and there used to be common ground that abortion was not a desirable outcome. Hillary Clinton famously said, "Abortions should be safe, legal and rare." For 20 years, that was the policy of the Democratic Party. Not anymore. There's a radicalized wing of the Democratic Party that promotes abortion as a morally positive, progressive action. Indeed, actor and Democratic activist Lena Dunham told her podcast listeners in 2016, "I still haven't had an abortion, but I wish I had." I find that tragic. CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS Yes. As for codifying it into state law, it’s not likely to be taken up. However, if it is, I will vote for it. WHY YOU • Increased education funding by $2.8 billion/year • Obtained $340 million for career development • Wrote the law to keep schoolchildren safe • Wrote the law to increase the number of teachers • Wrote the law to protect sexual assault survivors • Wrote the law to combat opioid abuse • Wrote the law to give seniors more housing options • Voted to eliminate the senior pension tax • Wrote the law to give disabled individuals easier access to handicapped parking placards • Wrote the law to ban animal shelters’ use of gas chambers

ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY People don't contact their state Senator when their life is going great. They contact their state Senator when they're desperate and afraid. The letters, calls and emails that I receive are from people who don't know where else to turn – they're about to lose their home to foreclosure, or their utilities are about to be turned off, or they don't have food for their children, or they have some other type of personal family crisis. Opening up their files to public inspection through FOIA requests does not serve the public interest, and I will resist it. As for campaign finance, committees are currently required to declare late contributions that arrive after the filing deadline. The technology is readily available to require immediate (24 hour) disclosure of all contributions. Allow the people to see for themselves if contributions are being made to coincide with legislation.

Finally, I'm the likely next chair of the Education Committee, where I can do even more for our schools.

PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE It's been said the true measure of a society is how it treats those least able to defend themselves. I'm pro-life. I find it interesting this question doesn't ask pro-choice candidates if there are circumstances when abortion shouldn't be permitted, such as

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

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november 6 general election voter guide Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE - 40TH DISTRICT

Manoogian, a Birmingham resident, attended undergrad and graduate school at George Washington University's Elliott School of International Affairs. She was the program officer in the Office of English Language Programs, and Digital Engagement Officer, Office of eDiplomacy, both at the U.S. State Department. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Michigan has a rich history of protecting of the environment but in recent years there have been several legislative attempts to restrict the DEQ when it comes to rule-making to implement laws of the state, including the now pending legislation that would place control of future rule-making with an appointed committee comprised of special interests, including factions of the business community. There has long been a realization that the DEQ is underfunded in terms of being able to carry out its mission of protecting the quality of life in the state. Do you agree with the recent attempts to curtail the DEQ? Do you feel that more funding needs to be allocated to the DEQ for enforcement purposes? I disagree strongly with recent attempts to curtail the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. This agency is critical to ensuring Michiganders are healthy and safe, and that our natural resources remain for generations to come. We should be relying on scientists and public servants for staffing this rule making agency, not corporate polluters and CEOs who have a financial interest in how the rules are made. I support increasing resources for the DEQ, so that they can fully ensure a healthy and safe Michigan. GUN REGULATIONS Because Congress has failed to act on proposed increased regulation of gun ownership, a number of states have taken the initiative to address the issue. Should Michigan be taking the lead on the gun

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Yes, the ongoing expansion of charter schools has negatively impacted our K-12 public school system. We must take the profit motive out of educating our children. I support capping the number of schools that can be chartered in any given year. Presently, charter schools are able to use taxpayer dollars, but are not subject to the same transparency laws that local schools and school boards must be compliant with. I will champion legislation that will ensure transparency wherever our public dollars are spent on education. Given our state’s struggles with meeting third-grade literacy standards, and falling test scores, underfunding our local schools is not the answer to the question of how to build a Michigan that is prepared for the 21st century. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION What is your position on the marijuana legalization proposal appearing on the November ballot?

ROAD REPAIRS While the state has announced that $175 million will be disbursed this year for road and bridge repairs, do you feel that is sufficient while we wait three more years for the road funding proposal to finally kick in? Should the state rainy day fund be tapped in the interim, as some have suggested? We know that $175 million is insufficient for road funding; some estimates put the amount at $2 billion annually to adequately fund road and infrastructure repairs. Waiting for three more years to repair our roads is untenable. This is costing Michiganders across our district, and indeed our state, an average of $700 in repairs per year. It is estimated that our state will have a budget surplus between $279 million and $348 million. This money should not be allocated to the rainy day fund; it must be used to begin the much needed repairs to our county and local roads. CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS Michigan has developed a reputation as one of the most deregulated school environments in the country, with the largest number of charter schools – 80 percent of which are for-profit ventures. Charter schools were originally billed as a cure for declining student achievement and inequality, but a number of reports in the last few years show that 70 percent of the state’s charter schools are in the lower rungs of student achievement reviews. Lawmakers in Lansing, however, have on more than one occasion rejected tightening the overview of charter schools and have allowed for their continued growth. Should there be more state

I support the legalization of marijuana. By legalizing marijuana, our state can regulate and tax it, similar to how alcohol is regulated, and we can conduct better research on its impacts. Additionally, the legalization of marijuana is also a civil rights issue, given that criminal enforcement disproportionately impacts low-income communities and communities of color. While other states have made marijuana legal with some net positives and some challenges, our state has the opportunity to get it right. ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY Although Michigan has 1973 Act (196) to regulate conduct of public officials, it is considered less than rigorous when it comes to legislative ethics and transparency, leaving Michigan ranked near the bottom in comparative studies with other states. Would you support financial disclosure by state lawmakers? What about including the governor’s office and the legislature when it comes to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act, from which they are now exempt? Would you support a bill that prohibits “Pay to Play” when it comes to lawmakers approving contracts with companies or people who are campaign contributors? Are there any other areas that need to be addressed if we are to strengthen ethics/transparency laws/rules in Michigan as they apply to the legislature and administrative offices? As a former U.S. Department of State program officer, I strongly support strengthening Michigan’s ethics and transparency laws. I support financial disclosure by lawmakers and expanding

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

Orchard Lake

Bloomfield Twp.

rmington Hills

Bloomfield Twp.

40 Franklin

Bloomfield Hills

Birmingham Bingham Farms

I support implementing common sense gun laws in Michigan that will keep our communities safe. I am proud to have earned a Moms Demand Action Gun Sense Candidate Distinction. On student walkout day, I spoke at the Capitol in Lansing, and advocated for red flag legislation at our state representative’s office hours. I support expanding background checks, including requiring background checks at gun shows. I firmly believe that weapons of war have no place in our communities, and bump stocks or other modifications to firearms to make them automatic should be made illegal. I support red flag legislation that takes into account civil liberties, but also ensures an individual will not be able to harm themselves or others. I do not believe arming teachers is the answer to making our schools safer. I will advocate for increased funding to ensure schools across Michigan are able to take proper safety precautions.

Sylvan

DEMOCRAT

Pontiac

control over charter schools for performance and finances? Does the ongoing expansion of charter schools threaten the public schools K-12 system that we have relied on for education?

Keego

MARI MANOOGIAN

control? Would you support requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons? Red flag laws?

Beverly Hills Southfield Twp.

Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, Bloomfield Hills and West Bloomfield.

Michigan’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) to the legislature and governor’s office. This will allow lawmakers to provide much needed oversight and a check on the executive branch. Additionally, I support prohibiting “Pay to Play” regarding lawmakers approving contracts with companies or people who are campaign contributors. Ethics and transparency laws should also be extended to the MDEQ, and other agencies operating in the executive branch. I also support increased transparency with regard to any taxpayerfunded expenditure, including public dollars that are spent on charter schools. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE Are you pro-life or pro-choice? If you are pro-life, are there any exceptions to prohibitions on abortions that you find acceptable? Explain your position on this issue. I support a woman’s right to make her own healthcare decisions. The choices a woman makes regarding her health should be between her and her doctor. CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS Should the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act be amended to extend civil rights protections in housing and employment to include sexual orientation? Why or why not? Every Michigander must be considered equal under the law, therefore the ElliottLarsen Civil Rights Act should be amended to extend civil rights protections to every citizen regardless of sexual orientation. I applaud the decision of the Michigan Civil Rights Commission to extend the definition of the word, “sex” to sexual orientation and gender identity with regard to Elliott-Larsen via a regulation. However, we must take steps to amend Elliott-Larsen to ensure Michigan is inclusive under the law, in the event a future MCRC repeals the regulation. WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot?

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november 6 general election voter guide

I was born and raised in Birmingham and it’s the place I’ve called home for my entire life. I’m proud to be this district’s hometown candidate. Over the years, I’ve been a Harlan Hare, a BCS Cobra and a Seaholm Maple – and I believe it really does matter that the leaders we elect to represent us in government can understand our district. I’m proud to have a diverse record of public service experience from my time in the Office of Congressman John Dingell to working with Ambassador Samantha Power at the United Nations, to representing America abroad at the State Department and the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro. After eight years of Governor Rick Snyder and an incredibly long 20 months of President Donald Trump, it’s clear that the experiment of electing leaders with no experience in government has failed Michigan. Democrats shouldn’t follow down that same failed path.

DAVID WOLKINSON REPUBLICAN

considering new regulations or stricter enforcement of current ones absent a compelling reason otherwise.

MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION GUN REGULATIONS I believe very strongly in the Second Amendment. Our right to bear arms is entrenched in our Constitution. However, our recent history of gun violence has made it clear that we need to be more effective in getting guns out of the hands of those that are severely mentally ill and are prone to violence. I do not think that all, or even most, of our horrible gun violence can be solved with new legislation, but it is clear that certain perpetrators of these horrendous crimes (like the young man in the recent Parkland shooting) should never have had access to the guns that he did. He had demonstrated mental incapacity to possess weapons and an eagerness to commit violence. If legislation were proposed to increase the effectiveness of background checks and it was narrowly tailored, so as not to infringe on the rights of law abiding Americans, I would support it.

ROAD REPAIRS

Wolkinson lives in Birmingham and is a small business owner. He served as Gov. Snyder's policy director and administrative vice chairman of the Michigan Republican Party. He has undergrad, masters, and a law degree from University of Michigan. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION In 2010, I served as policy director for Gov. Rick Snyder’s gubernatorial campaign. I met with business leaders, environmentalists and other stakeholders throughout the state. Under the Granholm administration, the single most complained about state agency was the DEQ. Governor Snyder came into office determined to roll back what he viewed as an overly aggressive DEQ and given the nature of this question, it appears he was quite successful in doing so. There has been no greater failure of this administration than the Flint water disaster. That disaster (shamefully, totally manmade) reminds us why strong environmental regulations are so important (they are literally of life and death importance.) With that said, I would be very wary of swinging the pendulum in the other direction. It is important that we be conservative about

NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

appropriate to consider tougher oversight of those failing schools.

$175 million is not sufficient. Our roads are in serious disrepair. While I would support legislation to use money from the rainy day fund, my first priority would be to fight for our district’s fair share of the current road money being spent. We are the biggest donors to the state (as far as House districts go). In Oakland County, we only get back some 70 cents on the dollar of what we send to Lansing – in the 40th district it is even lower. Thankfully we are the wealthiest district in the state, but the formula for road money does not account for either a) how much we disproportionately send to Lansing for the entire state’s benefit; b) being the economic and social engine of the metro Detroit region, how much our roads are driven on. The bottom line is that Oakland County (and the 40th district in particular) do not get our fair share of road revenue based on the current formulas and the next state representative needs to fight for our fair share. CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS The idea behind charter schools having less accountability than traditional public schools is that no one is obliged to attend a charter school. Public schools in our district are for the most part fantastic, but there are other places (like the city of Detroit) where plenty of parents failed their kids are trapped in a failing system. Charter schools were created to give parents more choices. Unlike traditional public schools, if a charter school is failing then the parents have the option of pulling their child out. This is an inherent accountability that does not exist at traditional public schools. With that said, the state funds a major part of every student’s public education dollars. If charter schools are failing, then it would be

Let the people decide. The people are smarter than Lansing politicians. As William F Buckley once said, “I’d rather be governed by the first thousand names in the phone book than the Harvard faculty.” I think the people have been way ahead of the politicians throughout the marijuana legalization process. I have great confidence in the people and will support whatever decision they make. ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY Yes, I believe that there is a deep deal of insider dealing in Lansing and there are a number of reforms that I would support to hopefully transform this negative/corrupt culture. This is most prevalent when one examines the state’s economic development efforts. Simply put, investing is hard, it is not easy (I do it for a living) it is not the role of state bureaucrats (or legislatures for that matter) to speculate as to what the next economic “growth” area will be. Our economic development efforts should be narrowed to providing a safe secure place to invest, top flight infrastructure and fantastic educational systems. It is not the role of the state to invest in private enterprise (directly or through the tax system). Predicting winners and losers should be left to private citizens and I think draining Lansing of this money will clean up the ethical environment in state government. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE I am pro-life. CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS Yes. Same gender loving couples (LGBTs) and all Michiganders deserve the same housing and employment rights. This is past due. No one should be discriminated against on the basis of sexual orientation or gender identity. Of course, there must be robust protections of our religious freedoms (no church or synagogue should ever be forced to violate their beliefs) but extending Elliot Larsen to the LGBT community should be done immediately. WHY YOU I am a businessman. I have built up a small but successful real estate management company in the last five years. I know how economies work and I have deep experience in public policy from my years of activism in the Republican Party and my service as Governor Snyder’s policy director. I think I am the candidate with the best combination of energy and experience to fight for what matters to voters in the district. I know how government works and I want to fight for more money for our roads, more dollars in the classroom and to make Michigan the best place to live, work and raise a family.

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

THE WASTED YOUTH VOTE The U S government reports, election after election, that the age bracket that turns out to vote less than any other is the 18-24 years of age group. The youth vote in 2018 could be one of the more powerful voting blocks ever. But you must vote. Call or visit your local municipal clerk’s office to register for the November 6 general election. Youth holds the power. Use it. 13B

november 6 general election voter guide Birmingham, Bloomfield Hills, Bloomfield Township

STATE HOUSE - 45TH DISTRICT KYLE COOPER DEMOCRAT

Cooper, of Rochester, is a bartender. He attended Oakland and Eastern universities. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Michigan has a rich history of protecting the environment but in recent years there have been several legislative attempts to restrict the DEQ when it comes to rule-making to implement laws of the state, including the now pending legislation what would place control of future rule-making with an appointed committee comprised of special interests, including factions of the business community. There has long been a realization that the DEQ is underfunded in terms of being able to carry out its mission of protecting the quality of life in the state. Do you agree with the recent attempts to curtail the DEQ? Do you feel that more funding needs to be allocated to the DEQ for enforcement purposes? We need to do everything in our power to protect our states environmental resources. We have been shown on several occasions over the past decade that the DEQ does not possess the necessary manpower or authority to protect our state from threats to our environment, manmade or otherwise. From the Flint water crisis, to the Asian carp invasion, to Line 5, we need to do more to protect our citizens and wildlife. Michigan used to be a world leader in environmental protection, and I will be leading the charge in Lansing to return us to our former status. GUN REGULATIONS Because Congress has failed to act on proposed increased regulation of gun ownership, a number of states have taken the initiative to address the issue. Should Michigan be taking the lead on gun control? Would you

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support requiring expanded background checks? Background checks at gun shows? Banning bump stocks? Raising the age on the purchase of weapons? Banning military style weapons? Red flag laws? As a proud recipient of the Moms Demand Action Candidate Distinction, I will work hard in Lansing to keep the children of our state safe while at school. Universal background checks, regardless of where a weapon is purchased, are a must. This is a measure that is widely supported by most Americans and must be enacted. Creating red flag laws that keep guns out of the hands of those most likely to hurt others and themselves is also imperative. Ensuring domestic abusers are added into red flag laws is crucial as well. As for banning bump stocks and most military style weapons, we cannot as a government create loopholes in laws that make it easier for potential criminals to kill large amounts of innocent people. I believe in “gun violence prevention” and “gun safety,” not “gun control.” These efforts are about preventing gun violence, not controlling the rights of responsible gun owners. ROAD REPAIRS While the state has announced that $175 million will be disbursed this year for road and bridge repairs, do you feel that is sufficient while we wait three more years for the road funding proposal to finally kick in? Should the state rainy day fund be tapped in the interim, as some have suggested? Our state’s rainy day fund is nearly $1 billion. I think I speak for nearly all Michiganders when I say we are tired of excuses from Lansing. Funding for our roads throughout Rochester and Rochester Hills are the direct responsibility of our current representative in Lansing. I challenge anyone to drive down Livernois Road and tell me they are happy with what’s been done the past four years. Everything from the formula we use to calculate road funding, to where the funding is generated from needs to be overhauled. The system that our state government has been complacent in using is outdated and failing Michigan families.

Lawmakers in Lansing, however, have on more than one occasion rejected tightening the overview of charter schools and have allowed for their continued growth. Should there be more state control over charter schools for performance and finances? Does the ongoing expansion of charter schools threaten the public schools K12 system that we have relied on for education? As you mentioned, studies have shown time and time again that divesting in public education and shifting public money into these for-profit charter schools does not work. Mike Webber himself is endorsed by the Great Lakes Education Project (GLEP), a Devosfunded group that’s sole purpose is to deregulate our public education system and establish as many for-profit charter schools as possible. The direction I want to take our schools in is student centered, not profit driven with your tax dollars. We need to give teachers the freedom to work more closely with students in a one-on-one modality as well as lowering the importance of standardized testing. We need to focus on making education rewarding for the student, not stress filled and anxiety inducing. With education at the forefront of my campaign, I will fight to ensure all students have an equal shot at a quality education in Michigan. MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION What is your position on the marijuana legalization proposal appearing on the November ballot? I am in support of the marijuana legalization ballot proposal. I believe that legalization can provide a very large boost in tax revenue that is specifically earmarked for education, roads and infrastructure. This is also another large potential industry to help stimulate our state’s economy. Data also shows that states with legal marijuana have seen a large reduction in the number of opioid addictions. Through legalization and state regulation, we can also take better steps as a government to keep marijuana out of the hands of minors and underaged users. Overall, we can see several significant economic and public safety benefits for families in our community through the legalization of marijuana.

CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS

Auburn Hills

Rochester

Rochester Hills

Rochester, Rochester Hills and the lower portion of Oakland Township.

Freedom of Information Act, from which they are now exempt? Would you support a bill that prohibits “Pay to Play” when it comes to lawmakers approving contracts with companies or people who are campaign contributors? Are there any other areas that need to be addressed if we are to strengthen ethics/transparency laws/rules in Michigan as they apply to the legislature and administrative offices? I wholeheartedly believe in transparency when it comes to taking positions of responsibility and authority, and no elected official in this state should be entitled to secrecy over wrongdoing. Financial disclosures must be made common practice, if not the law and our state government should be subject to the terms of FOIA as well. I would support any efforts to eliminate “Pay to Play” practices. We need to strengthen the ethical framework our government operates in, so that we not only improve how government functions today, but also to facilitate the entry of more ethical and trustworthy politicians into the system. Lansing is meant to be run as a government of the people, and transparency is key in maintaining this integrity. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE Are you pro-life or pro-choice? If you are pro-life, are there any exceptions to prohibitions on abortions that you find acceptable? Explain your position on this issue.

ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY Michigan has developed a reputation as one of the most deregulated school environments in the country, with the largest number of charter schools – 80 percent of which are for-profit ventures. Charter schools were originally billed as a cure for declining student achievement and inequality, but a number of reports in the last few years show that 70 percent of the state’s charter schools are in the lower rungs of student achievement reviews.

Although Michigan has 1973 Act (196) to regulate conduct of public officials, it is considered less than rigorous when it comes to legislative ethics and transparency, leaving Michigan ranked near the bottom in comparative studies with other states. Would you support financial disclosure by state lawmakers? What about including the governor’s office and the legislature when it comes to the Michigan

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My goal with this issue is to reduce the number of abortions through responsible and medically safe means. We must listen when women speak regarding what they need to make informed decisions. We must increase access to contraception for all people who need it, and we need to move away from abstinence-only education in our schools, toward more comprehensive sex education programs. We need to also improve affordable access to women’s

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november 6 general election voter guide

healthcare services, and community resources. Just as important as the debate around abortion is the question of what are we doing to take care of mothers and children now? With a foster system that is woefully underfunded, and hundreds of thousands of children who are underfed and malnourished, we can’t stop caring for a child the moment they’re born.

MICHAEL WEBBER REPUBLICAN

Should the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act be amended to extend civil rights protections in housing and employment to include sexual orientation? Why or why not?

WHY YOU I am running for office because I want to be a high school teacher someday. And through my years in school and talking with fellow teachers, I began to lose hope day by day that I would ever be able to make a good living as a teacher in Michigan. Our public education system in Michigan is under attack. Teachers are struggling to make ends meet while also battling just to give their kids the bare necessities in the classroom. I’ve met teachers that have not been able to purchase new books for their classrooms in upwards of 10-15 years. The children of Michigan deserve better. I’m running because I love this state, and I want to leave it better than what I found it. I will put aside the partisan rhetoric and work with anyone who’s willing to work toward strengthening Michigan’s schools, and finally fix our crumpling infrastructure.

make sense given our strict term limits. PRO-LIFE/PRO-CHOICE

ROAD REPAIRS

CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS

I believe that the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act must be amended to include and protect employment and housing protections for all Michiganders regardless of who they are, or who they love. Current employment and housing protections do not protect members of the LGBT community, and many people can be put out of work, denied a job, or a place to live because the law does not protect them. Simply put, the law needs to be updated.

important than ensuring the safety of our children in the classroom.

Webber, of Rochester Hills, is completing his second term as Representative for the 45th District. He served seven years on the Rochester Hills City Council, five years on the board of the Older Persons Commission (OPC), and as a board member on the Rochester Community Schools Foundation. He has a degree in international relations from James Madison College at Michigan State University. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION While I cannot speak to the funding levels for DEQ prior to 2015, I do believe that the department has been adequately funded over the past four budget years. The DEQ has had some challenges over that time period, none more high profile than the Flint Water crisis that resulted in the resignation of the previous director. Money has been appropriated by the legislature on a bipartisan basis to respond to the Flint crisis and concerns regarding PFAS. Legislation to allow for greater business community input into DEQ rules struck the correct balance of protecting our environment while also allowing input currently not considered by the department.

The $175 million mentioned in the question was additional road funding that was used on an emergency basis in this summer’s budget because it was left over from the previous year. Overall, our road funding budget is about $4 billion for this coming year. I expect that it will continue to increase over the next several years. As a state, we have underfunded our roads for decades and now we are just starting to catch up. Having consistent increased funding for roads is the key so that companies come back that can perform these projects (and do it right the first time). Tapping the state rainy day fund is not a smart way to go – it would mean $1 billion in one time money and that is it. Re-doing ACT 51 funding – how we distribute road funding throughout the state – also needs to get done. CHARTER SCHOOL REFORMS The decision was made years ago to uncap the number of public charter schools in our state. I would support greater transparency of our public charter schools. It is important to realize that per pupil funding follows the student to whichever school they choose to attend (except for private schools). If public charter schools are attracting students to attend, then there must be a market for these schools. It is also important to note that the per pupil school allotment has increased each of the past four years and that because of the governor’s 2X formula, the gap is decreasing between the higher and lower per pupil funding school districts.

While I do appreciate that good people can disagree on this issue, I am pro-life and proudly endorsed once again by Right to Life of Michigan. CODIFYING CIVIL RIGHTS While there has been discussion about this in the past, including a recent push from the Michigan Civil Rights commission, I believe that the legislature should focus on many other critical issues affecting our state. WHY YOU A 28-year resident of Rochester Hills, I have grown up in this community, went to school in this community and now proudly serve this community. I have focused on constituent outreach and accessibility during the 11 years (including seven on the Rochester Hills City Council) that I have represented our area. I have focused on results and I am able to work with colleagues to get things through the legislative process. While others attempt to shift our state to an extreme, socialistic form of government, I will continue to focus on providing realistic government that does not try to do more than it should.

MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION I am opposed to the proposal. While some states have been able to legalize marijuana, this is a dangerous proposal that goes much further than all of the other states. Voters should read through the proposal and stay informed before voting in November. ETHICS/TRANSPARENCY

GUN REGULATIONS Michigan currently has many laws already on the books that are enforced regarding background checks and gun ownership. The legislature has focused efforts on bi-partisan legislation to improve school safety. The budget that was recently passed includes $58 million for school safety initiatives, including grants to help schools update their security, resources to hire additional counselors for students, and an expansion of the OK2SAY program. I expect that more recommendations will come out of the Governor’s School Safety Task Force. Nothing is more

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I would support financial disclosure by state lawmakers. For the second session in a row I have voted for legislation requiring that the governor’s office and the legislature be open to Freedom of Information Act. As a city councilmember in Rochester Hills for seven years I was subject to FOIA, and I think that our governor and state lawmakers should be subject as well. Unfortunately, these bills have failed to reach the governor’s desk the past two sessions. In addition, I would add that Michigan should have a cooling off period for legislators and staff before they join a government relations organization. This is a change that would

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november 6 general election voter guide Rochester Hills

COUNTY COMMISSION - 11TH DISTRICT ANN ERIKSON GAULT DEMOCRAT

millage or a dedicated gas tax strictly for road repairs? A county as prosperous as Oakland should not have crumbling roads. Oakland County has a $900 million budget but spends less than one percent of that on roads and relies solely on the limited funding the Road Commission for Oakland County receives from the state. Before we consider increasing taxes, we should examine whether we can reallocate the existing revenue to road repair and construction. As a county commissioner, I will work to increase funding for roads and other infrastructure. IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COUNTY

Erikson Gault is an attorney who lives in Troy. She received her bachelor's degree from Manchester College, and her law degree from University of Toledo. She has served on the Women's Commission for Oakland County. REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY After failing in 2016 by only one percent in Oakland County, there is a new regional transit plan proposed for the November ballot. Do you think a regional transit millage proposal should go on the ballot for all Oakland County communities? Why or why not? Should some Oakland County communities be allowed to opt out? The patchwork system of transit in metro Detroit fails the people who need it most. No one should have to sit on a bus for two hours to get to work. We need to unify the existing system so that working people and seniors have safe, reliable transportation. A unified system would bring opportunities for economic expansion and job growth. We should also reconsider whether some communities should be able to opt out of the SMART system or any future transit system. Instead of allowing opt outs, we should build a system that benefits all communities. As for as the regional transit ballot proposal, I am generally in favor of allowing the people to vote and would not oppose putting it on the ballot. As the Michigan Constitution states, all political power is inherent in the people, and our elected officials should not be standing in the way. ROAD IMPROVEMENTS Oakland County receives a limited amount of money – although increased from previous years – from the state for road construction. Do you think the county, either by itself or in cooperation with neighboring counties in southeast Michigan, should pursue a

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Oakland County is once again the toprated county in the state, with AAAratings and a 3.6 percent unemployment rate. The county has created a number of focused development efforts, such as Automation Alley. Do you think there are other concerted efforts the county should be launching at this time? The key to sustaining economic growth is an educated, well-trained workforce. If we have workers with the skills that industry needs, new business will locate here. We can create that workforce by two means: maintaining high quality public education and promoting training in skilled trades. For example, trade unions already have apprenticeship programs in place to train people to perform well-paid jobs that are in demand. Oakland County can do more to promote those existing programs and, as county commissioner, I will make this a priority.

it can to be a strong partner in the southeast Michigan region as it applies to the issue of regional cooperation? Oakland County is not an island, despite what some county leaders may think. When the region prospers, we prosper too. Oakland County should work with all of southeast Michigan to invest in our early education systems and preschool, increase access to healthcare in our communities, repair and update our infrastructure, and make sure that everyone, especially woman, have a seat at the table in business and government. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Oakland County is the home to hundreds of inland lakes and sits at the headwaters of six major rivers feeding the state’s waterways. Should the county be taking a stronger role in protecting the environment through a more aggressive approach with ordinances regulating items and activities that threaten our natural resources? We are the stewards of our environment and if we fail to conserve and protect our natural resources, we do so at our own peril. The Board of Commissioners should keep a close rein on activities that threaten our environment such as fracking. While we should not unnecessarily interfere with a property owner’s rights, we have to ensure that activity on private property does not adversely impact public lands and resources. Oakland County should also be investigating the emerging problem of PFAS by identifying any contamination and working with state and federal authorities to remediate pollutants.

MENTAL HEALTH WHY YOU According to experts, teens and young adults are experiencing mental crises, with rising suicide rates. Hospitals are experiencing larger influxes of mental health patients. What should the county mental health division be doing to address this issue? Is there anything the county board of commissioners should be doing to address this issue? This issue is personal to me as I have witnessed friends and family who battled depression. The county has good programs in place to help those who struggle with mental health, but we could be doing more to increase public awareness of the problem and the available services. The Board of Commissioners can shine a light on the issues by creating or expanding public awareness campaigns, especially in the schools, to make sure that all children know they are not alone and where to get help. REGIONAL COOPERATION

Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? Too many elected officials today lack integrity and the courage to do what is right. I will advocate for my community, as I did when I fought the city of Troy to release information on our former city manager. Transparency and accountability will be keystones of my work as county commissioner. I will also communicate with my constituents so they know what the commissioners are doing and I know what issues matter to them. I have demonstrated my commitment to communication by personally knocking hundreds of doors in the district. A voter I met recently told me that he has never heard from his county commissioner. That will change if I am elected. Last but not least, I will do what the voters are telling me is badly needed: I will bring new leadership and new ideas to county government to move our workforce and economy into the future.

Do you feel Oakland County is doing all

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

Auburn Hills

Rochester

Rochester Hills

Almost the western half of Rochester Hills, along with the northern portion of Troy and the southeast corner of Auburn Hills.

THOMAS E. KUHN REPUBLICAN

Kuhn is an attorney who lives in Troy. He received his bachelor’s degree at University of Michigan, masters and PhD from University of Toronto, and JD from Detroit College of Law. He was an Oakland Community College trustee from 20042016; Royal Oak City Commissioner, 1989-2001; and served on the Royal Oak Plan Commission and Plan Steering committee.

REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY After failing in 2016 by only one percent in Oakland County, there is a new regional transit plan proposed for the November ballot. Do you think a regional transit millage proposal should go on the ballot for all Oakland County communities? Why or why not? Should some Oakland County communities be allowed to opt out? Rochester Hills taxpayers should not be required to pay for the proposed new regional transit tax. If other communities believe that the regional transit plan will benefit them, then, of course, they should have the opportunity to tax themselves if they so choose. As county commissioner, I will work hard to exclude communities such

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november 6 general election voter guide

as Rochester Hills from paying for any regional tax proposal which doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t benefit them. For me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s really just a matter of fairness. The proposed cost to Rochester Hills taxpayers far exceeds any benefit.

to evaluate their effectiveness and to propose improvements. We should encourage public-private cooperation to address this serious concern.

ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

Do you feel Oakland County is doing all it can to be a strong partner in the southeast Michigan region as it applies to the issue of regional cooperation?

Oakland County receives a limited amount of money â&#x20AC;&#x201C; although increased from previous years â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from the state for road construction. Do you think the county, either by itself or in cooperation with neighboring counties in southeast Michigan, should pursue a millage or a dedicated gas tax strictly for road repairs?

I oppose adding a new county road tax on top of the existing state and federal road taxes. As county commissioner, I will however make sure county participation in joint projects with Rochester Hills to prioritize maintenance and improvement of those county roads which have been neglected, such as Hamlin, Adams and Livernois. IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COUNTY Oakland County is once again the toprated county in the state, with AAA-ratings and a 3.6 percent unemployment rate. The county has created a number of focused development efforts, such as Automation Alley. Do you think there are other concerted efforts the county should be launching at this time?

As a trustee at Oakland Community College for 12 years, I believe technology and information sharing between Oakland County and local governments and schools is a critical concerted effort needed. The county has significant resources and information which should be shared with our local governments and schools. In addition, the existing programs to encourage training and new economic investments should be expanded. I support funding for the Auburn Road corridor, upon which the city of Rochester Hills has focused attention. MENTAL HEALTH According to experts, teens and young adults are experiencing mental crises, with rising suicide rates. Hospitals are experiencing larger influxes of mental health patients. What should the county mental health division be doing to address this issue? Is there anything the county board of commissioners should be doing to address this issue?

The county needs to fix Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Village to assure better outcomes for troubled children in our community. The first step should be setting up a task force of community volunteers involved with Youth Assistance and similar volunteer groups, along with business, non-profit and school leaders to look at Childrens Villageâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current operations, NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

REGIONAL COOPERATION

Did not respond. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Oakland County is the home to hundreds of inland lakes and sits at the headwaters of six major rivers feeding the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterways. Should the county be taking a stronger role in protecting the environment through a more aggressive approach with ordinances regulating items and activities that threaten our natural resources?

For the past seven years, I have been lakes chair of our homeowners association, which includes six lakes and one stream. In that capacity, I have experienced repeated issues with the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water Resources Commission, which has failed to step up and cooperate with groups interested in promoting protection and improvement of our waterways. Oakland County needs to assure less bureaucracy, less red tape and more innovation in addressing the needs of our lakes and streams. In particular, the county needs to work with volunteer and community groups to promote increased joint public-private projects.

Paid for by Tom Kuhn for Oakland County 1595 Pebble Point Drive, Troy, MI 48085

RE-INVENTING OAKLAND COUNTYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S FUTURE

WHY YOU Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot?

I have extensive experience in local government. I spent 12 years as an elected trustee for Oakland Community College and, before that, 12 years as an elected member of city council. I have also been an appointed member of the City Plan Commission and City Master Plan Steering Committee. For the past seven years, I have served on my neighborhood homeowners association. I am committed to representing the needs and views of the citizens of Rochester Hills. I will work to assure efficient and fiscally responsible government geared to providing the best services without new taxes. I support our local law enforcement, including improved technology, staffing and infrastructure for the County Sheriff. I also support new and expanded business opportunity in the county. The most important reason a voter should choose me over my opponent, however, is my demonstrated commitment to integrity, service and family.

9 Engine of Economic Growth Oakland County government OFFET to provide policies and programs to attract and retain high tech industry, high paying jobs.

9 Rebuilding Our Infrastructure 70% of Oakland County roads are rated poor or worse- UhBU is unacceptable. Tom Kuhn will work to bring much needed road dollars back to our community.

9 Center for Learning

As a 12 year veteran of 0$$hT )JHIFS &ducation #oard PG 5SVTUFFT, Tom Kuhn understandT the value of building a culture of knowledge and opportunity. )F XJMM open new doors for young people by expanding partnerships between county government, higher education institutions and business in skilled trades, apprenticeships and more.

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november 6 general election voter guide Rochester, Rochester Hills

COUNTY COMMISSION - 15TH DISTRICT MARY WARD DEMOCRAT

need to invest in roads that are built with high quality.

WHY YOU IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COUNTY Oakland County is once again the toprated county in the state, with AAAratings and a 3.6 percent unemployment rate. The county has created a number of focused development efforts, such as Automation Alley. Do you think there are other concerted efforts the county should be launching at this time?

Ward is a realtor who lives in Rochester Hills. She has her undergraduate degree from Oakland University and a master's degree from Marygrove College. REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY After failing in 2016 by only one percent in Oakland County, there is a new regional transit plan proposed for the November ballot. Do you think a regional transit millage proposal should go on the ballot for all Oakland County communities? Why or why not? Should some Oakland County communities be allowed to opt out? Yes, I support the regional mass transit plan. All popular and successful city areas in the country as well as the world have a strong mass transit system. This will aid our area in many ways; it will attract young people to our region. Many of them would rather not have to own a car and all the associated expenses. It would also relieve traffic congestion. It will unify all regions and make it easier and more cost effective to transit within out metro Detroit area. ROAD IMPROVEMENTS Oakland County receives a limited amount of money – although increased from previous years – from the state for road construction. Do you think the county, either by itself or in cooperation with neighboring counties in southeast Michigan, should pursue a millage or a dedicated gas tax strictly for road repairs? It is our responsibility to make sure that we have roads that are safe to travel on. I would like to make sure that the roads are built with quality components as it seems like our roads wear out more quickly than roads in other states and countries. I know that we have harsh weather, but so does Wisconsin. We

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No answer.

The people who are not retiring need to be well trained prior to their departure. Procedure manuals and philosophies need to be produced. In-servicing of these procedures and philosophies should be taken by the employees left behind. If this is done, the elected officials will be able to reproduce the same results and may even improve upon them. The county office climate must be of the highest quality.

Why should a voter choose you over an opponent on the ballot? I taught children for many years; managing them, evaluating them and presenting them. This demands strong organizational and people skills. I have had many jobs including medical transcription, sales and customer service. Currently, I teach English Language Learners as well as sell and buy real estate. I love to learn new things and enjoy challenges. This makes me highly qualified to do a great job for the people of Oakland County.

ADAM KOCHENDERFER REPUBLICAN

According to experts, teens and young adults are experiencing mental crises, with rising suicide rates. Hospitals are experiencing larger influxes of mental health patients. What should the county mental health division be doing to address this issue? Is there anything the county board of commissioners should be doing to address this issue? No answer. REGIONAL COOPERATION

1. Maintaining a clean water supply. This includes what comes out of our faucets as well as our water table and small lakes. 2. We need to maintain and even strengthen our community health system. Mental health services should be strengthened and made available to those that area in need. 3. Our county roads need to be maintained and kept in great condition. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION Oakland County is the home to hundreds of inland lakes and sits at the headwaters of six major rivers feeding the state’s waterways. Should the county be taking a stronger role in protecting the environment through a more aggressive approach with ordinances regulating items and activities that threaten our natural resources?

Rochester Hills

11 Rochester and the eastern portion of Rochester Hills.

ROAD IMPROVEMENTS

MENTAL HEALTH

Do you feel Oakland County is doing all it can to be a strong partner in the southeast Michigan region as it applies to the issue of regional cooperation?

Rochester

Kochenderfer lives in Rochester Hills, and is currently the county commissioner for the 15th District. He is an attorney who received his law degree from University of Michigan Law School, and his undergraduate degrees from Oakland University. He previously was a Rochester Hills city council member from 2011-2015.

REGIONAL TRANSIT AUTHORITY It is clear that our region cannot reach its full potential without a transit system beyond SMART’s current offering. Too many are left behind, and large employers have named mass transit as a significant consideration to moving jobs here. But if one of the goals of mass transit is combining our regional strength, forcing outlying communities into a system they don’t want is a poor start. We must take the time to formulate a strong transit plan with buyin from all necessary communities, regardless of whether that includes all or a portion of Oakland County. Any other approach deepens the divisiveness we are attempting to combat.

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

Keeping our roads smooth and safe is one of government’s critical functions. However, an additional tax on families and businesses is neither necessary nor practical. As a county commissioner, I supported a pilot program that invests millions of dollars in local road improvements. Oakland County is also employing innovative techniques that leverage our existing road dollars. For example, we were able to “purchase” federal funding from other counties in Michigan who are not using the funds. This may mean that Oakland County would pay the other county $800,000, but it would receive $1 million in federal funds to spend on road improvements. We are continuing to explore and deploy unconventional approaches to stretch road dollars. A new tax limited only to our area would make Oakland County both less affordable for current residents and less attractive to employers and families considering a move to our area. IMPROVEMENTS TO THE COUNTY I’m proud of the strong economic growth Oakland County has experienced during my tenure as a county commissioner. The county now holds one of the lowest unemployment rates in the state. But now isn’t the time to rest. We are continually exploring new sectors to pursue. For example, artificial intelligence promises to be the next leap across industries and society at large.Oakland County is uniquely situated to be a leader in that field. Our automotive resources are crucial to the development of autonomous vehicles. But that is just the beginning. We can leverage that expertise to become a magnet for companies exploring artificial intelligence in a wide variety of industries. This and other efforts will ensure that Oakland County continues to attract high-paying jobs that shape tomorrow. MENTAL HEALTH As a parent of two small children, I’m NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

deeply concerned about the mental health of our county’s youth. That’s why I cosponsored a resolution expanding the Safe and Healthy Kids program in Oakland Schools. This program provides anti-bullying training for educators and promotes awareness and understanding of how to combat bullying in schools. This is one example of many actions that the county’s mental health division is taking to protect our youth. Whether it be suicide or violence against others, the board of commissioners has a critical role in continuing to support those prevention efforts. REGIONAL COOPERATION Oakland County has a moral and functional obligation to work with other counties and communities across southeast Michigan. That’s why Oakland County serves as a partner in the regional authority governing Cobo, the Great Lakes Water Authority, and many other partnerships that cut across county lines. But regional cooperation is not synonymous with regional capitulation. Partners can have honest differences of opinion. When we do, we must frankly express those opinions and attempt to work through disagreements to benefit all residents. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION I strongly believe our water resources are critical to both Oakland County’s economy and residents’ quality of life. For example, I co-sponsored a resolution to support and expand lake testing and monitoring throughout the county. This included a partnership with Michigan Clean Water Corp, which works to preserve and protect our state’s water resources. We must serve as responsible stewards of our county’s water resources, and I will continue to support efforts that meet that goal.

FREEDUMB

WHY YOU While I did not have an opponent on the primary ballot, I believe my experience in both the public and private sectors has prepared me for continuing to serve the residents of Oakland County. I am currently on the Board of Commissioners, representing Rochester and a large portion of Rochester Hills. I formerly served on the Rochester Hills City Council and numerous other community organizations. But I am also an attorney and equity partner at a law firm in Oakland County, Wolfson Bolton PLLC. Additionally, I am a former partner of a large regional law firm, Honigman Miller Schwartz and Cohn LLP. I have represented clients ranging from automotive OEM’s to private individuals in complex disputes. That experience has required deep problem-solving and analytical skills, but also an ability to sometimes bring feuding factions together to achieve a common goal. NOVEMBER 2018 GENERAL ELECTION

DON’T VOTE THINGS ARE JUST FINE THE WAY THEY ARE

VOTER GUIDE/DOWNTOWN

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BECAUSE EVERY VOICE SHOULD BE HEARD.

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