McMillin, VanRaaphorst: 2 Different Approaches

Locally we are in the heart of the “political silly season” with all kinds of untruths being said to distort the positions of each of the candidates.  Sound bites are used to only cover a small piece of the issue that are targeted tested snippets designed to inflame and cause confusion.

The strategy of Distract, Divert, Distort, Discredit and Demonize by attacking on fake issues is in full swing.  This strategy adds no value, it solves no problems, and it causes more chaos.  The smart person sees this approach for what it is, calls it a distraction and focuses back on the real issue.

In this particular race we have seen many personal attacks on McMillin which distract from the real issues at hand.  They are taking his personal Christian beliefs and making up issues around them, to distract from the important issues that we face.  The most important issue in Michigan that needs to be solved is the economy, as the famous saying goes “it’s the economy stupid.”  A focus on creating an environment that will attract business to Michigan and let the economy grow will bring back prosperity to all who are willing to work for a living.

Here are the 2 plans these candidates have presented to the public for you to review and assess:

Representative Tom McMillin www.taxpayersfortom.com/agenda.html

go to “Agenda” and review each of the issues listed

Issue                     Detailed Subjects and Plan

Jobs                      eliminated MBT, reformed unemployment, corporate handouts, reduce regulations

Freedom              indefinite detention, free speech, defense reform, warrantless tracking, SWAT team

Transparency      salary & benefits, government contracts, Detroit water, pensions, metrics

Other Issues        spending, accountability, healthcare, marriage, life, part time legislature,

                           local control of education, available to constituents

There are no comments or references to his opponent.  The plan is a series of accomplishments and bills introduced to be implemented to address specific issues individually.

In a recent Rochester Hills paper article McMillin outlined his top goals:

1. Continue to make Michigan a better place to do business
2. Focus on job creation
3. Reduce other business taxes
4. Reduce personal income tax rates for everyone
5. Utilize his CPA to push for transparency in government spending
6. Ensure government spending is adding value
7. Good accountability metrics to ensure a return on the tax payers money

Candidate Joanna VanRaaphorst www.joannaforrochester.com 

go to “Platform” and review each of the issues listed

Issue                     Detailed Subjects and Plan

Business & Jobs    local & state economy, streamline government, business friendly, work together

Public Schools       public schools, funding, investing in education

Less Government  local control, right to self govern, safety, infrastructure

There are no comments or references to her opponent.  The plan is a series of statements with no details or action plans; it is a series of initiatives.

In a recent Rochester Hills paper article VanRaaphorst outlined her top goals:

1. Protect our local public schools
2. Demand charter and cyber schools operate with the same rules
3. Job creation and infrastructure
4. Brand Michigan as a progressive innovative state with well educated employees
5. Simplify the tax code for small business
6. Repeal the tax on seniors
7. Address prison funding
8. Too many incarcerated non-violent citizens

The Challenge:

Spend time doing your homework, ½ on McMillin’s plan and another ½ on VanRaaphorst’s plan; study both of them with an open mind.  This is not a Republican or Democratic vote; this is a vote on a candidate for our Representative that will set the course of our State at a real pivotal point in our history.  I believe it is worth the time, I challenge you to do the research.  Ignore the noise, become an informed voter and make your decision based on your personal beliefs and make sure you trust the candidate’s promised results based on their past record and credentials.

Remember the spin doctors on both sides in this heated debate are counting on the voter to listen to their spin and not the facts.  Do not be a sheep and fall into the trap, research the statements for truth and ensure you understand the total picture, not just the sound bites.

In your vote for Representative you are choosing one of these 2 plans.  Which one fits your personal belief and value system?

I am choosing the one that has been moving Michigan in the right direction and focused on the real issue at hand, the economy.  Obviously schools are important, but choice in schools is freedom.  This allows parents to choose the right path for their child; after all it is their money being spent!

What is your choice and why?