Final say: Primary candidates send last message to voters before election day

The November Primary is fast approaching, and Monroe County residents will have a lot to consider before filling out their absentee ballots or heading to the polls.

The Monroe News asked each candidate looking to represent Monroe County at the federal, state or county level to provide a brief message to voters. Those statements can be found below:

U.S. Representative, District 5

Bart Goldberg, D-New Buffalo: "I’m a problem-solving, moderate Democrat from Berrien County who will work across the aisle to get our great Nation back on track by getting inflation under control, creating good jobs & a stronger economy, and protecting our rights to affordable healthcare and our bodies, while listening to and respecting everyone."

Tim Walberg, R-Tipton: "Americans are suffering under the Pelosi-Biden agenda. I’m fighting to reverse inflation, unleash domestic energy to lower gas prices, secure our border, and curb surging crime. Rest assured, I won’t back down. Because America’s future—our children's and grandchildren’s future—is worth fighting for. I humbly ask for your vote."

State Senate, District 16

Katybeth Davis, D-Monroe Charter Township: "As a mother, activist, and community volunteer, I fight for Reproductive Freedom, expansion of voting rights, higher wages, environmental justice,  criminal justice reform, affordable housing, increases in mental health care, gun reform, diversity, equity, and inclusion at every level.  Vote Yes on Proposal 3 to save our reproductive rights!"

Joseph Bellino Jr., R-Monroe: "I have lived in Monroe my whole life. I have raised a family and owned a business here. I have listened to my neighbors and represented them in Lansing for 6 years. I will work to continue to bring business and opportunity to Monroe and provide stability for our families."

State Representative, District 28

Robert Kull, D-Frenchtown Charter Township: "I was born and raised in Monroe County and graduated from Jefferson. I’m a Navy veteran and completed two deployments. I coach at Jefferson and serve as an officer in the Michigan National Guard. Recently I oversaw the Veterans Affairs office in Monroe. I’m running because I love our community."

Jamie Thompson, R-Brownstown: "The reason I am running for this position is simple. As a nurse, I believe my purpose in life is to heal and fix what is broken, and right now Lansing is broken. I will use my background, and real-life experience to bring real change to our communities."

State Representative, District 29

Alex Garza, D-Taylor: "I am running to continue fighting inflation and bring in good paying jobs to our communities. I am the candidate who supports our police and farmers. I am endorsed by Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) and Farmers (Michigan Farm Bureau Agri-PAC and Michigan Corn Growers)."

James DeSana, R-Carleton: "My candidacy to help lead the State is on behalf of the freedom-loving families of Monroe County and Downriver.  Our Constitutionally guaranteed freedoms are under attack by the left which is becoming increasingly more totalitarian. We desperately need an Article V Convention of the States to restrain the Federal Government."

State Representative, District 30

Suzanne Jennens, D-Lambertville: Did not provide a response.

William Bruck, R-Erie Township: Lifelong Monroe County resident, active in the community, well known for supporting veterans and seniors. Wife, Natalie, nine children, MCCC Trustee, Army Veteran, rank of CW4, four combat tours and two Bronze Star Medals.  Sits on many local boards, owns Visiting Angels. Graduated Monroe High, BA, Journeyman Lineman, and MBA.

State Representative, District 31

Reggie Miller, D-Belleville: "I am running because I believe that local government works best when focused on serving residents’ needs. While in Lansing, I will continue to preserve, support, and protect our community. I maintain taking a common-sense approach to serving the hardworking taxpayers of the community by listening to their concerns."

Dale Biniecki, R-Monroe: "I am pro-business, pro-education, and pro-farmer. I'm an experienced small business owner who wants to reduce Michigan's crushing taxes. I'm a Christian family man who will represent my district with integrity, conviction, and tenacity. I'd be honored to have your vote on November 8. Send a trucker to Lansing! www.daleformichigan.com."

First District Court Judge

Christian Horkey, Dundee: 22 years experience and founding partner of the law firm of Godfroy, Wetzel & Horkey. Endorsed by Monroe County Deputies Association, Police Officers Association of Michigan and Laborers’ Local 499. Serves as a Dundee Township Trustee and on Gabby’s Grief Center Board. Believes justice is best served fairly and consistently.

Steven Hyder, Monroe: "Steven Hyder was a first responder medic and an electrical inspector before practicing law for over 16 years. If elected Steve will bring a sobriety court to Monroe County and he will continue to insist on cash bail. He will make sure justice is applied fairly and equitably."

Monroe County Board of Commissioners

District 2

Danielle Hoover, D-Milan: "Top priorities are working with other commissioners to provide excellent services for community members while being fiscally responsible. I will meet our constituents where they’re at. Mom, wife, daughter, sister, Gold Star Family Member, social worker, union member. Ready to work for you in District 2!"

Mark Brant, R-Monroe: It has been my pleasure representing my constituents in District 2 these last 8 years. Each year we have a balanced budget. Our main focus going into the future will be first public safety and second economic development that will supply tax dollars and jobs for future generations.

District 4

George Jondro, D-Monroe: Did not provide a response.

Jay Heinzerling, R-Monroe: Did not provide a response.

District 6

Jerry Oley, D-Monroe: "Jerry Oley for Monroe County Board of Commissioner District 6th. Proven bi-partisan leadership focused on promoting, protecting, and growing all corners of Monroe County. Past Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. Results include adding deputies, 6 new pumps for Bolles Harbor, 911 Center and protecting citizens! VOTE OLEY!"

David Vensel, R-Monroe: “I am a life-long Monroe resident and I have spent much of my adult life as an educator. I have the experience to make a positive impact on the board. I will work in a spirit of cooperation with everyone to improve the quality of life in Monroe County.”

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Primary candidates send last message to voters before election day