AFL-CIO hosts “Meet the Candidates”
• Stupak and Hooper face off
• Chippewa County candidates stress job creation
Stupak and Hooper face off
By Shannon K. Jones
For Bay Mills News
 SAULT STE. MARIE — With the November election fast-approaching, Congressman Bart Stupak (D) and challenger Don Hooper (R) addressed area residents at the “Meet the Candidates” forum held Aug. 25, hoping to gain the support of local voters.
While the candidates expressed opposing views, the issues were the same. Dominating their agendas were healthcare, job creation and the war in Iraq.
Stupak kicked off his speech with remarks on the current status of the economy. Acknowledging a recent loss of manufacturing jobs in the state, Stupak said a tax code change would keep money and jobs from moving overseas. He said he would also like to see infrastructure created, such as road and utility improvements, to entice industry into the Sault area. Stupak told the crowd he would work as a liaison for the area, aiming to attain funds to create such infrastructure.
In regards to healthcare across the country, Stupak criticized the recent Medicare reform, describing it as “a farce”. To lower costs, he suggested allowing the purchase of prescription drugs from Canada as a viable option and that all Americans should have some type of healthcare coverage.
On the other side of the coin, Stupak's opponent, Don Hooper, called himself a conservative. Hooper spoke of the economy as in good shape, using the rising stockmarket as an example.
Hooper went on to counter Stupak's comments on healthcare and said, “The federal government shouldn't get involved, giveaways get out of hand and everyone abuses it.”
In terms of the war in Iraq, both candidates were once again at different ends of the spectrum.
Stupak said he did not believe the Bush administration from the beginning of the Iraq conflict and he certainly does not believe them now, calling the current situation “a terrible quagmire.” To calm the situation in Iraq, Stupak said the U.S. should call on allies for assistance, sharing the burden of decision-making instead of asking for troops and money and then insisting on calling all the shots.
Hooper's position was in favor of the war as well as the Bush Administration.
“If we don't stop them now, they'll be in our own backyard. President Bush will be applauded for his efforts 10 to 20 years down the road.”
Hooper said he believes weapons of mass destruction are being built. He suggested the U.S. focus more on China, saying they have the possibility of becoming an enemy. To combat terrorism, Hooper favored closing the borders and removing the country from the United Nations.
Stupak is seeking re-election for his seventh term in office. This election marks the second time Hooper has run for the seat. Both candidates are running for the 1st district congressional seat.
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Chippewa County candidates stress job creation
SAULT STE. MARIE — The Eastern Upper Peninsula Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO hosted a “Meet the Candidates” event on Wednesday, Aug. 25, at Christopher Columbus Hall. Candidates for seats representing Chippewa County were on hand to address residents and take questions concerning their position on local issues. The candidates shared a common view, stressing job creation as vital in Chippewa County.
Gary McDowell (D), of Rudyard, is running against former state senator Walter North (R) of St. Ignace for state representative. McDowell focused on job out-sourcing, saying it should cease and local politicians should work to create an environment that welcomes employers to the area. McDowell said another factor contributing to the stagnant job market is the rising cost of healthcare and that this cost has been detrimental to employers.
North was unable to make an appearance due to a previously-scheduled engagement.
Candidates for seats as Chippewa County Commissioners also weighed in on the economic troubles of the area.
Incumbent Rita Dale (D), is seeking re-election in the 3rd district. Her opponent is Scott Shackleton (R), who has been term-limited out as state representative.
Dale said jobs are disappearing from the area at an alarming rate. She criticized the state for funding cuts to counties and then increasing the number of mandated services. As a result, the county finds itself making cuts, she said. “It is the same story all over Michigan. Counties are not immune from it.”
Don McLean (D) is vying for the 4th district seat against Bernie Lajoie (R). McLean took the position that government is responsible to do things for people that people cannot do for themselves. To increase economic development in the region, McLean said efforts need to be increased to bring new industry to the area. He recognized the impact of both the Sault and Bay Mills tribes for their creation of jobs in the area and suggested the county work with these two entities to increase economic success.
The last speaker of the evening was Kathy Gaylor (R) of Rudyard. Gaylor is seeking election in the 5th district for a seat as county commissioner against incumbent Ted Postula (D). Her background includes 20 years of experience as a township clerk. Gaylor said she has experience in making hard choices and understands many government-mandated services and funding shortages. She said choosing her for the seat would bring a fresh perspective to the arena.
Other candidates vying for positions in the November election (running unopposed) include: Donald Cooper (D), County Commissioner District 1; Earl Kay (D), County Commissioner District 2; James Moore (R), County Commissioner District 6; Richard Timmer (D), County Commissioner District 7; County Treasurer Marilyn McDonald (D); County Register of Deeds Sharon Kennedy (D); Sheriff Jeff Moran (D); County Clerk Diane Cork (R); Prosecutor Brian Peppler (D); Drain Commissioner Anthony Bosley; Surveyor William Karr.
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