Michele Hoitenga

ALPENA – State Sen. Michele Hoitenga,R-Manton, is running for her final term in the the state senate.

Hoitenga represents Michigan’s 36th District.

Hoitenga represented the 102nd district as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives from 2017 to 2022.

In Michigan, state legislators can serve a total of 12 years combined, often split between the House and Senate.

As Hoitenga prepares for what will be her final election, she said her time in office has allowed her to address some of the concerns voters have, most she can relate to.

“The issues that matter most to the people I serve are the issues that matter the most to me,” Hoitenga said.

Three issues Hoitenga is paying close attention to are taxes, preserving our natural resources, and finding a way to provide more mental health resources to those who need them.

“The top three things I constantly hear about are property taxes, preserving our land from solar and data center developments, and the need for more mental health care and facilities,” Hoitenga explained.

With the current political divide, getting some goals accomplished can be troublesome. Despite that Hoitenga has a wall full of proud accomplishments.

“Even in an era of deeply partisan politics and division, I take great pride in the photos displayed on my office wall,” Hoitenga said. “They represent my success in securing bipartisan support for significant policy bills with both Republican and Democratic governors/lt. governors signing them into law.”

Hoitenga said once her time serving Michigan comes to an end, she does not foresee future political ambitions.

“I strongly believe in term limits and aim to make my upcoming term, my most impactful yet,” Hoitenga said.

As she embarks on the elections later the year, she said her entire focus is on serving her constituents.

“As I seek re-election for this final term, my focus is solely on serving effectively and meaningfully, without any plans or ambitions beyond this period,” Hoitenga stated.

A career in politics comes with its share of ups and downs. Not every promise made on the campaign trail can be fulfilled.

Hoitenga explained some of the disappointments she has regarding her time in office. Particularly, not using her problem-solving skills to be more influential, in a more prominent role.

“Looking back, I feel a sense of disappointment for not pursuing a leadership role that would have enabled me to fully leverage these abilities at the decision-making table,” Hoitenga said.

However, Hoitenga understands sometimes too much government involvement is counterproductive.

“I understand that at times, the most effective solution is for the government to get out of the way, ” Hoitenga said.