ROGERS CITY — Voters in Presque Isle County will decide in the upcoming primary election who they want as their county prosecutor.

The two candidates vying for the Republican nomination in the Aug. 6 primary are incumbent Ken Radzibon and challenger Zakary McClennan. With no Democrat on the ballot, the winner of the August contest will likely run unopposed in the November general election, meaning the primary winner is poised to take office on Jan. 1 for a four-year term.

Radzibon, 71, has a longstanding history in the legal and public service fields. He has served as the county prosecutor since 2016, following a nearly two-year tenure as an assistant prosecutor and 24 years as a probate judge from 1983 to 2006.

Radzibon has lived in Rogers City since 1984 and Presque Isle County since 1979. He said he brings a legacy of service with 47 years in the legal profession, having been a licensed attorney since 1977. His interests include Civil War history, teaching political science and Civil War history as an adjunct professor at Alpena Community College, as well as bowling and golf.

“I’ve been an attorney for 47 years,” Radzibon said. “I’ve been a prosecutor for the last seven-and-a-half years. Earlier in my legal career, I was a probate judge here in Presque Isle County for 24 years.”

Radzibon prides himself on his extensive experience and highlights his success in prosecuting several criminal sexual conduct cases involving children. He voices concern over legislative changes that limit court power in dealing with certain offenses, particularly regarding restitution enforcement.

McClennan highlighted his diverse background and commitment to community service.

Raised in Presque Isle County, McClennan brings expertise in engineering and intellectual property law to his candidacy. He holds degrees in mechanical engineering and law from Michigan State University. Currently employed as an assistant prosecuting attorney in Cheboygan County, McClennan resides in Rogers City with his wife and two children.

McClennan aims to rejuvenate the prosecutor’s office with new energy and ideas. He plans to reestablish cooperation with the state Children’s Protective Services, focusing on child abuse and neglect cases. He promised to enhance community engagement and office visibility.

“I’m really excited for this opportunity,” McClennan said. “You’re not going to find someone that works harder than me. I’m going to bring new ideas, energy, and enthusiasm to the office.”

Both candidates agree that protecting the community and ensuring justice are paramount, but their approaches differ.

Radzibon emphasized his track record and deep-rooted legal experience, while McClennan focused on bringing fresh perspectives, modernizing office practices, and fostering stronger community ties.

Radzibon’s significant concern is the legislative changes affecting court powers, particularly in enforcing restitution payments, which he believes undermines victim support.

McClennan prioritizes restructuring the office’s relationship with Children’s Protective Services and concentrating solely on prosecutorial duties to better serve the community.