By Colin Maloney
cmaloney@digitalfirstmedia.com
@colinabm on Twitter
Two Democratic candidates are vying for the 14th District state Representative seat in the Aug. 7 primary.
The incumbent, Cara Clemente, is running against former Southgate Board of Education member Mark Kremer. The district covers Lincoln Park, Melvindale, Riverview and Wyandotte.
The News-Herald sent questionnaires to both primary entrants and their responses are below.
The winner will take on Republican candidate Darrell Stasik of Riverview in the Nov. 6 general election.
Name: Mark Kremer
Age: 22
City of residence: Wyandotte
Prior elected office: Southgate Board of Education treasurer and secretary, 2015 to 2017
What makes you the most qualified candidate for the position? I have spent two years in elected office, and helped run and financially stabilize a school district. I know the inner workings of the political and administrative systems of government, while also keeping a humble respect for the duties of the office. In short, I’m actually going to do the job, and do so above and beyond. If I am elected, I will be the most accessible representative in the state. You have a problem and the office is closed? Call me. 734-363-0550.
If elected, what do you plan to tackle within your first 90 days? I’m going to be setting up work groups of concerned citizens to discuss the most pressing issues in the district in their minds, not just what I want to work on. I want to go to Lansing to represent the people of my district, not just what I think is best, or just what I have a passion in. That said we need to reinvest in quality education, quality roads and repeal right-to-work (for less).
What’s the most pressing issue facing the district and what specifically will you do to address it? I always hate the idea of one issue being the biggest or bigger than another. If you ask the 90,000 people of this district that question, you’ll get a different answer each time. Everyone has a different view on things and what is important to them personally. For me, everything goes back to education, but somewhere in this district, someone doesn’t know where their next meal will come from, and I would like to set up resources that can help them. So education and poverty.
What’s the most pressing issue facing the nation and how will your work with the district contribute to fixing it? The divisiveness of our politics. I know I’m a pretty polarizing figure myself at times, but it is directed towards those who are ripping everyone off and selling them a pipe dream. We have so many people running for office right now who are in it for the wrong reason, and willing to sell any lie to get elected and stay in office. Most people want what is best for their families, and having a different view on how to get there than your neighbor who votes different than you does not make them an “enemy.” It might make them uninformed, but most everyone wants what is best for this nation. I intend to hear the concerns of everyone in my district to do my part in bridging that gap. You may not always like my position on an issue, but you can be certain that I will hear you out. Again, 734-363-0550. Call me if you want my opinion, or to give me your opinion.
Name: Cara Clemente
Age: Not given
City of residence: Lincoln Park
Prior elected office: Incumbent State Representative for District 14
What makes you the most qualified candidate for the position? As a longtime resident of the 14th House District, I have a good understanding of both the positive aspects and needs of our community. My incumbency has provided me with that much more experience regarding the best ways to collaborate with residents and local officials to accomplish important goals.
If elected, what do you plan to tackle within your first 90 days? I plan to continue meetings with constituents, local elected officials and colleagues to ensure that my office’s priorities remain aligned with their needs and goals during the upcoming term.
What’s the most pressing issue facing the district and what specifically will you do to address it? I believe that public school funding and access to continued education opportunities are extremely important Downriver and across Michigan. As an educator, I intend to work with my colleagues in committee and on the House floor to explore legislation that would help alleviate some of the concerns that my district faces.
What’s the most pressing issue facing the nation and how will your work with the district contribute to fixing it? I believe that health care and immigration are greatly impacting our residents and governmental institutions. Being an active listener and providing any available resources are essential steps towards promoting a reliable government.
