Campaigns have begun for state and federal elections that are coming up this November. These elections will determine who serves in the offices for the state offices of Governor, Secretary of State, and Attorney General. Our U.S. Congressional Representative will also be up for election, now held by Jack Bergman (R). As an aside, when was the last time you saw Bergman interviewed on any televised news program? Is he camera shy or does no one in D.C. care about what he may have to say?

Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D) will hold office until 2025, Sen. Gary Peters (D) will hold office until 2027. State Representative Sue Allor (R) will hold office until 2023. State Sen. Jim Stamus (R) is term limited, so many candidates will be trying to fill that office.

The only Michigan elected office holder that regularly visits NE Michigan to meet with us in person and hear our thoughts and concerns has been Sue Allor. When was the last time any of the others came here to listen directly to us? They may pop in for a private photo op for some special occasion, but then poof, they are gone. We don’t hear about the visit until a day or two later, with no opportunity to confront them directly with our concerns.

Yeah, I know, they are ‘busy people’ and their time is limited. Well, who are they representing, us or themselves? If they don’t have time to take our questions and concerns, what good are they to us? I for one am tired of all of them telling us what is good for us without taking our input. As it is, all but Allor are doing a pretty poor job. We need to demand better access. Use your votes wisely when election day is here.

MIKE LEOW,

Rogers City