By ZEINAB NAJM
Times-Herald Newspapers
HEIGHTS — Current 13th District State Rep. Frank Liberati (D-Allen Park) is seeking re-election in the Nov. 6 general election against Republican challenger Annie Spencer.
The position is for a two-year term. According to published reports, Spencer responded to survey requests by saying she moved out of the district and is not actively seeing election. Her name will remain on the ballot because she did not officially withdraw from the race.
Each candidate was asked three questions with a 100-word limit for each answer. Spencer did not respond to the questionnaire by press time.
Question 1: What skills, strengths, education or experience do you possess that make you a qualified candidate for the position you are running for?
Liberati: As a member of the Michigan House of Representatives, former school board president, and owner of a small family business with my wife for the past 16 years, I feel I have the right experience and qualifications to continue representing the residents of 13th District. As a legislator, I have successfully passed legislation into law to protect students from non-emergency restraint and seclusion. With my experience as both a union member and small business owner, I understand how to balance policy in a way that raises the standard of living for working people and ensures that businesses are successful.
Question 2: What will be your priorities if you are (re)elected?
Liberati: I am proud of my record and honored to have the trust and support of my constituents. My priorities include lowering auto insurance rates, strengthening our commitment to public education, fixing our broken infrastructure, and standing up for the working families of our communities and state. As an advocate and father of a son with a developmental disability, I have also made it a priority of mine to fight for the rights and independence of individuals with disabilities. Lastly, I will continue to support stronger investments in higher education and job training as well as reinstating the prevailing wage law.
Question 3: Why should people vote for you?
Liberati: I am passionate about solving the many complex issues facing our communities and believe that we can overcome these challenges. I will continue to put working people ahead of partisanship and the wealthy, powerful Lansing special interests. As a legislator I have stood up for working families, students, seniors and small businesses throughout the last four years and if I am re-elected I will continue to be a strong advocate for the Downriver community.
(Zeinab Najm can be reached at [email protected].)