(Michigan News Source is writing a series of profiles featuring the five GOP gubernatorial candidates on Michigan’s August 2 primary ballot. Today’s article highlights Garrett Soldano.)

How do you plan to distinguish yourself from the other candidates in the next five weeks?

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“The Republican nominee should have a record of successfully taking on Gretchen Whitmer. I have a 1-0 record against her after I successfully led the charge to repeal the laws that allowed her to rule over Michiganders unilaterally during the pandemic. I look forward to holding her accountable for the damage she’s done to our economy, our children, and our Constitution.”

While on the campaign trail, what are the two biggest problems Michiganders have told you they’re facing? How would your administration fix those problems?

“The biggest problem faced by Michiganders today would consist of the state of our economy and bringing jobs back to Michigan. To address this issue, my administration would place the following policies into effect:

* Enacting a 12-month small business tax holiday on small businesses with fewer than 10 employees and $500,000 in gross receipts.
* Committing to eliminating 25 percent of regulations not required by state or federal law within two years of taking office.
* Reducing occupational license requirements and fees.

Secondly, another issue faced by Michiganders would consist of restoring faith in our government and increasing transparency. To address this issue, my administration would place the following policies into effect:

    1. 1. Expanding the Freedom of Information Act to the Legislative and Executive Branch
    2. 2. Strengthening the current Freedom of Information Act
    3. 3. Ending the “Whitmer Campaign Finance Fake Loophole”
    4. 4. Passing transparent lobbying rules that show every lobbying expenditure
    5. 5. Implementing a five-year lobbying ban for former state legislators
    6. 6. Enacting personal financial disclosure for all state candidates
    7. 7. Strengthening and enforcing Conflict of Interest laws
    8. 8. Prohibiting legislators from coordinating with 501c4’s to use as slush funds
    9. 9. Passing real Michigan Economic Development Corporation Reform”

What’s specifically at stake for Michigan in August and November?

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“In August, Michiganders will have a choice between bought and paid for candidates or those advancing their own political agendas, or a candidate such as myself whose only special interest are the residents of our state. This November, Michigan will face a choice between a corrupt career politician who has broken promise after promise to the voters, or a candidate who will drain the Lansing swamp and put the people back in charge of this state.”

Currently, the Michigan governor does not have to respond to FOIA requests. Would you work to rescind this?

“Yes, my ‘Sunshine 2.0 Plan’ specifically outlines that FOIA requests would be expanded to the Executive Branch.”

The current administration (Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson) only respond in writing to media requests or ignore the inquiries. How does your administration plan to communicate with the media and the public?

“A Soldano administration would not hide from the public, given our focus on truth and transparency in government. Regarding the media and the public, a Soldano administration would be the most open and accessible administration this state has seen in years.”

For more information on Garrett Soldano’s campaign, visit here.