CANDIDATES

Jessica Swartz - Candidate for Congress MI-4
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Hard work is in Jessica Swartz’s DNA. Born and raised in West Michigan by a public school teacher and small business owner, Jessica got her first job at age 13. She went on to become a Division One rower at Michigan State University, picking up shifts in the school cafeteria and local restaurants when she wasn’t at practice or studying.

After graduating from American University Washington College of Law, Jessica worked as an appellate attorney for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, making sure veterans got the benefits they were promised by cracking down on waste, fraud, and abuse. Jessica waited tables on nights and weekends to pay down her student loans and mortgage.

In 2007, Jessica married her husband, Jamie, a former Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy. They moved back to West Michigan to be close to family and raise their daughter. She continued her work for the VA in Battle Creek before taking a job at Western Michigan University, where she specialized in free speech cases and served as Deputy General Counsel.

In 2018, Jessica worked hard to ban both parties from partisan gerrymandering with the nonpartisan organization Voters Not Politicians. She’s also a girl scout troop leader and spends her Sundays at St. Thomas More Catholic Parish Church.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Rep. Joey Andrews IV - Candidate for MI State House District 38
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Joey Andrews, a St. Joseph native, seeks re-election in Michigan's 38th House District, spanning Berrien, Allegan, and Van Buren counties. After graduating from Lake Michigan Catholic Schools, he earned dual Bachelor’s degrees in History and Music, followed by a Juris Doctor degree from Wayne State University. Returning home post-law school, Joey spearheaded efforts to revitalize his family's business during the Great Recession, gaining firsthand understanding of community challenges.

Since taking office, Joey has shown unwavering commitment to progress and advocacy. He led efforts to repeal damaging “Right to Work” laws and defended reproductive rights, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. His support helped pass the expansions of the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act, which has advanced equality statewide.

Moreover, Joey's tenure witnessed significant investments and advancements in the district. Spearheading initiatives on crucial issues like shoreline erosion, he secured funding for vital studies and projects, safeguarding the region's natural resources. Joey's leadership also attracted major economic developments, including the historic Palisades Nuclear Energy Project. Re-electing Joey is essential for the continued progress and prosperity of Michigan's 38th House District.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Austin Marsman - Candidate for MI State House District 42
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Austin Marsman is the guy who shows up. From his school board service, to a countywide broadband workgroup, to the state capitol steps, Austin has been steadfast in his commitment to the people. He has a proven track record of bringing us together to fight for our communities, our shared values and our futures.

As a lifelong West Michigander, Austin knows our communities and understands the serious challenges we face and that the political games from the current Representative are only making things worse. In Lansing, Austin will put the people and communities of the 42nd House District first.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Danene Shumaker - Candidate for MI State House District 43
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

I'm Danene Shumaker and I'm running for State Representative of District 43 because the needs of working people are not being met. I've complained enough. Now it's time to act. I'm a business woman and single mother who knows how to get things done. I have a plan for jobs, education, elder care and protecting our rights! If you are ready to act, we'd love your help!

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Jason Rubin - Candidate for Michigan State House District 79
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Jason is a husband, father and small business owner in the manufacturing industry. Jason owns IMS Supply based in Walker, MI with warehouses in Kentucky and Texas. Jason’s strong belief in education as the cornerstone of Michigan's future drives his commitment to enhancing our schools as your next State Representative. Michigan's education system is at a pivotal crossroads, facing unique challenges and opportunities. MI 79 residents deserve more work, less chaos.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Abby Klomparens - Candidate for MI State House District 86
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Abby Klomparens is running to serve as State Representative in the 86th district, serving both Ottawa and Allegan counties. Abby is running for office because she believes that we need representation in Lansing that gives a fresh perspective on the issues that matter most. Public service is not foreign to Abby, as her father served on Holland’s City Council, fostering Abby’s dedication to serving her community. Some of Abby’s priorities include promoting economic opportunities for all West Michigan residents, ensuring access to affordable housing, protecting our Great Lakes and drinking water, and investing in an education-first budget that supports educators and empowers students. For more information please visit voteklomparens.com.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE

Kerry Tapper - Candidate for MI State House District 39
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

With my years of experience and lessons learned as a mother, small business owner, and community member, I want to be a voice for the people of our uniquely beautiful 39th House District. I plan to listen first, research second, then take it to Lansing, to be a strong voice for each and every member of our community. I feel that together, we can Do Better, Be Better and Find the Balance!

I would love the opportunity to earn your vote.

LINKS: WEBSITE - ACTBLUE - Facebook

Kelly Hecker - Candidate for Casco Township Treasurer
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

Judy Pollack - Candidate for Casco Township Trustee
Endorsed by the Allegan County Democratic Party

State Wide Election Endorsements

Michigan Supreme Court (2)

Justice Kyra Harris Bolden
Kimberly Thomas

Board of Education (2)

Adam Zemke
Theodore Jones

Michigan State University Board of Trustees (2)

Rebecca Bahar-Cook
Thomas Stallworth

University of Michigan Board of Regents (2)

Denise Illitch
Dr. Shauna Diggs

Wayne State University Board of Governors (2)

Mark Gaffney
Rasha Demashkieh