6/25/14 - A political forum to allow residents to hear from candidates in the 47th state house and 8th congressional districts ahead of the August primary was held last night at Howell High School. Eleven candidates addressed residents in the high school auditorium, answering questions about topics ranging from social issues like marijuana legalization to policy matters like when the application of armed forces is justified overseas. Jordan Genso is the only Democrat running for the 47th State House seat, which will be vacated by term-limited Republican Cindy Denby this year. With no opponents in the primary he did not take part in the forum, but he was allowed to give a brief address to the audience, which he used to encourage further dialogue with other candidates. On the Republican side, Howell Mayor Phil Campbell promised to advocate for local government if elected to office, while former Howell School Board Trustee Wendy Day denounced the Common Core curriculum in schools and Medicaid expansion, while saying she would stand up for her principles in the face of lobbyists. Also running for the seat were Howell Township resident Harold Melton, who advocated property rights and reduced taxes, as well as Handy Township Supervisor Hank Vaupel, who touted his experience in government and private business, saying he would not have to learn how to be an elected official when he went to Lansing. For the 8th Congressional District, the four Democrats seeking the seat held their forum first. Bipartisan cooperation was promoted by Ingham County Treasurer Eric Schertzing, as well as self-described moderate Ken Darga, who brought the perspective of an economist to the issues at hand. Central Michigan University Professor Susan Grettenberger said she would promote what she called the âFour Eâsâ; economy, education, environment and equality. Attorney Jeff Hank billed himself as not-a-typical-politician and promised to avoid corporate influence. On the Republican side, former state Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop said real efforts were needed to straighten out the countryâs finances. Bishop agreed with the other Republican candidate, State Representative Tom McMillin, in denouncing Obamacare and holding out hope for its repeal. For audio of the 47th state house seat forum, follow the link below. (TD/JK)
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