Tag: Pete Hoekstra (page 4)

Nick's opinion is a trusted one.  And I hope my own carries some weight as well.

We had both agreed early on, that three Republican candidates, Bouchard, Cox, and Hoekstra would be worthy candidates and would likely make great governors.  The primary had promise to produce at least one great result, and that result being a truly Republican governor for the state of Michigan.  To be sure, each candidate has weaknesses, either in policy or perhaps a personal area, but nothing that has not been overcome with either explanation, a recant, or apology.  "To err is human, to forgive, divine," and we move on.

As this is a primary, and only one of these fine gentlemen who represent Republican principles can be Governor at a time, RightMichigan.com writers and readers alike have done due diligence, and decided whom they will back.  Nick and I both looked at many different points of strength the candidates have.  Conservative values, commitment of service, ability to rally support, and overall electability in the general election.  On balance, we both came to the same conclusion, and have been supporters of Mike Cox in his bid to be Michigan's top executive.  Nick was serious enough to work for the Cox campaign directly.

We here in the Grand Rapids field offices have some "undercover operatives" in Dem-friendly organizations in our area (Central-West Michigan).  According to what they're passing on to us, Michigan Democrat Party wants Cox as the GOP nominee.  That's because they have a fairly thick dossier of dirt on our current AG . . . and they will use that file to full advantage in the general.  In fact, Mike Cox is a potential Republican gubernatorial nominee that Brewer's crew is convinced that they can beat, because there are problems with the man some view as Michigan's answer to Rod Blagojevich that haven't surfaced much on RightMichigan.

So I was pleased to hear a really great radio ad the other day by the Michigan Right To Life PAC.

The Michigan Right To Life PAC explains why it has selected only ONE candidate to endorse, why that candidate is Mike Cox.  As an aside, it is interesting to contrast the explanation provided by RTL of MI to that of the NRA when it provides cover for its endorsements. (Of course I use the word 'cover' to describe NRA endorsements, because they often shoot themselves by hawking BAD legislators and politicos with a unique single mindedness)  The Right To Life Pac in its ad, actually uses its weight to suggest people consider the alternate outcome that could result which is quite contrary to their goals.  But not in this case from the election of a 'typical' supporter of abortion on demand usually sponsored by the Democrat party..

Candidates for Governor must:

Have lived in the United States for at least 5 years
Have lived in Michigan for at least 2 years
Be at least 30 years of age
Not hold another elected State or Federal office while they serve as Governor

Candidates for Governor should:

Be of good moral character
Show a record of common sense decision making
Have private-sector leadership experience of some kind
Possess a good understanding of the challenges facing Michigan
Present common sense solutions to restore Michigan
Be a leader of influence and work well with others

To watch video responses to these questions, go to Governor Wanted

How did you tell your wife you wanted to run for Governor and what does she think about your campaign?

What was your favorite job and why?

Describe a time you stood up for what you believe in and it cost you something politically. What happened, how did you respond, what was the outcome?

Describe a time you had to lead in a crisis. What happened, how did you respond, what was the outcome?

How, specifically, will you demonstrate your support for the 10th Amendment?

If you could only pass one bill during your first term, what specifically would it say?

Policy Questions on issues including taxes, business, abortion and education.

My personal favorite is the first one for Mike Cox. (what can I say?) It addresses the real issue in Michigan, a LOUSY environment to do business, (unless you are hooked by bureaucrats in a bizarre Rumplstiltskin scheme..) and is not the place that investors look to first any longer.

The second ad also uses a fast moving theme, and shows Pete Hoekstra is working hard on his campaign.  Ideas bus.  It doesn't identify the problem as well as the first, but it points out the value of getting input from around the state.

Mike Bouchard's "look" ad is pretty good too. It identifies the problem, and offers him up as a solution provider in the past, and identifies him as a "conservative" which resonates well right now.

Rick Snyder talks of "re-inventing " Michigan government in his short spot, "Jobs."  He apparently wants to look at Michigan as a business, and apply business solutions.

All of the ads have one commonality.  They are focused on the candidate as the solution provider.  No cheap shots, no overblown complaining, and each worth looking at.

From the Observor and Eccentric in Royal Oak

The 57-year-old congressman from Holland told members of the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Wednesday that increased sales taxeswould "totally eliminate some other taxes." Specifically, he mentioned the small business and personal property taxes, both of which he said are hurting businesses in the state.
"My preference is to spread the sales tax over a broader base and to raise the rate," Hoekstra said in response to a question. "There is no perfect tax system."
Currently the state's 6 percent sales tax does not apply to groceries and medication.

This isn't a secret. It's downplayed, but no secret, and it is probably a good reason that Hoekstra didn't get the Michigan Chamber endorsement. It's also a big reason why I'm supporting Mike Cox as the best alternative to the beltwayitis of Hoekstra.