Candidate Profile: Alex Garza For State House
Alex Garza, a Taylor resident is running for State House District 12.
Age: 26
Party affiliation: Democratic Party
Family:Wife - Amira Garza
Occupation:State Representative (2019 - present)
Previous elected experience:Taylor City Council Chairman (2013 - 2019)
Family members in government:Yes, one of my sisters work in politics.
Campaign website: https://www.alexformichigan.com
The single most pressing issue facing our state is _______, and this is what I intend to do about it.
Health care and Prescription Drug Costs. I am a co-sponsor of legislation that would cap prescription drug costs in Michigan. We must continue to fight against high drug costs and limit the strain it puts on our citizens. In order to cover Michiganders to the fullest extent possible, we must prioritize our community health for this to become a reality. Everyone should have access to affordable health care in our state.
What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?
I am the only candidate in this race that has put together an actual campaign. Unfortunately my Republican opponent has not given the voters an opportunity to know where she stands on issues or even to know that she is an actual candidate in the 12th District. I could not speak on our differences because I do not know what she stands for. I will say however, the difference is that I respect the voters' right to be informed about who is running to represent them in the legislature. I am proud of the positive campaign my team and I have run to inform the voters of my district.
What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?
I have passed 5 bi-partisan bills during my first term as a State Representative. Making me a leader working on both sides of the aisle in the Michigan House of Representatives. This proves that I am an effective legislator that will deliver results. I will work with anyone, Republican or Democrat, that want to help me improve the lives of those I represent in Taylor, Romulus, and Van Buren Twp.
What steps should state government take to bolster economic recovery from the coronavirus pandemic for local businesses?
During this period of COVID-19, the issues of our District have never been more apparent. Our immediate need is to continue to slow the spread of the Coronavirus and ensure our communities have the resources they need to respond to this pandemic. I am proud to have supported legislation that helped our small businesses access grants to help in their recovery. As I seek to return to Lansing, I will continue to be a strong advocate for supporting out local businesses rebuilding from this pandemic.
How will you address the calls for racial justice and police reform?
We are at a boiling point in this country. We have seen so many racial injustices happen before our very eyes across this nation. Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, Ahmaud Arbery, the list of injustices are almost endless. I have always been supported by our local law enforcement officials, and still am today. However, there are some bad actors that tarnish the badge and community that they swear an oath to protect. There is so much work to do in order to get reforms rolling in a positive direction. I am committed to continuing to work with our community and our law enforcement to make positive strides toward reform.
List other issues that define your campaign platform:
Repealing the Senior Pension Tax, Continue to Lower our Auto Insurance Rates, Support our Public Education, Support our Veterans, and Invest in our Infrastructure and Roads.
What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?
Since being elected 2 years ago, my staff and I have worked tirelessly to respond to the needs of the people of the 12th House District in Lansing. Whether that be helping with unemployment cases or introducing and passing legislation, I am proud of my track record of getting results for our district in Lansing. I want to continue my work for the families of Taylor, Romulus, and Van Buren Twp. Once re-elected as your State Representative, I will stay focused on the issues that matter most to you. I humbly ask for your vote on Tuesday, November 3rd to continue to be your voice in Lansing! – Alex
This article originally appeared on the Detroit Patch
