Fair Haven, MI, April 30, 2012: Michael Shmina is a project manager for A.Z. Shmina, a family owned construction business. Shmina is looking to unseat 24-year-old incumbent Andrea Lafontaine as the next 32nd District State Representative. The 32nd District represents northern Macomb and central St. Clair counties, which include Chesterfield, Wales, Columbus, Kimball, Riley, Kenockee, Ira, New Baltimore and Casco. Shmina filed his paperwork in Lansing on April 27th.

Says Shmina of his decision to run, "My goal is simple: I want to this area to remain a viable choice for people who'd like to move here. For that to happen, we need to simplify and reduce taxes for small businesses."

Shmina explains, "Small businesses, such as A.Z. Shmina, are what drive the economy. They hire from in and around their districts, generating income for the people within their districts. They invest in their community, and help neighborhoods, schools and other supporting businesses thrive. As a long-term employee within a small, locally owned business, I know first-hand how small businesses can make a big impact in communities."

Shmina's work experience makes him uniquely qualified to be the next State Representative for the 32nd district. With Shmina Construction for 19 years, he regularly plans and executes complex projects; hires and trains people; and negotiates and manages multiple contracts. "Problem solving and leadership" Shmina emphasizes, "are essential in what I do now and what I hope to accomplish in Lansing. My job experiences as a small business employee as well as my life experiences as a homeowner, parent and spouse give me a huge edge over the incumbent."

Shmina continues, "Politicians with no real-world experience outside of our state capitol are not in touch with how their recent legislation affects our Michigan-based businesses. A state representative who recently graduated from college can't possibly know how higher taxes limit job growth within the small business sector. How could she? If she hasn't lived it, walked it or felt it, then she has no basis for legislating it."

Lafontaine is just 24 years old and a recent college graduate. After a narrow victory in the August 2010 primary, she won the general election. Redistricting forced her to move from her parents' home in Richmond to another location allegedly within the district. Currently, however, it is unclear exactly where she lives or if she resides within the district at all.

There is no question where Shmina lives, however. As a property owner in Ira Township since 2002 with two children who graduated from the Algonac School District and another currently in second grade, he is no carpetbagger. "The 32nd district is my home," Shmina affirms. "I'm bringing up my family here. I work here. I hire my coworkers here. I am invested in its growth, and believe the one way to help ensure its long-term vibrancy is to provide more jobs for its residents."

When Shmina was asked why he chose to run he said "It was a very difficult decision. No one wants to run against someone from their own party, but it's about principles and core beliefs. I love the area and I want to give homeowners and small businesses the tools they need to succeed. For me, running is about doing what I say I'll do. It's about protecting our future and keeping our freedoms intact by reducing the size of our government and simplifying our legislation.

When asked about any potential debates with the incumbent, Shmina answered, "If she'd agree to one, I'd love to give the voters the opportunity to hear from both of us and see for themselves. Based on past experiences, however, I don't think she'll agree to anything formal. Debates are an important part of the political process. The voters want and need to ask questions and compare their candidates."