We get used to familiar faces, especially in politics. If we haven't seen someone before, we tend to hold back a bit and think, "Show me." Yesterday, at the Westland, Michigan AMVETS Memorial Hall, Stacey Mathia let everyone there know that she was running for Michigan's governor. Stacey's website is here.Memorial Hall is a gathering place for military veterans who don't suffer pretensions very well. But, on the other hand, this forum did not offer much in the way of a "cross examination" of ideas. I was able to ask a couple of questions regarding what she felt was the most important role of Michigan government and her quick answer was "infrastructure." That was a little vague, but she was pressed for time. She was adamant about the need to reduce government spending.
Here are her talking points from her website:
1. Just as all of us have had to tighten our belts and cut back on spending, so must our government. We must cut our government budget by a minimum of 15% upon inauguration.
2. Excessive taxation has contributed heavily to our current economic freefall. I will examine each and every tax and fee levied by our state, and pledge to eliminate those that are strictly punitive, such as the MBT. I will reduce those that are excessive, in order to stimulate job creation and entrepreneurial risk taking. As a result, tax revenue will increase, and jobs will be created, all without punishing Michigan families or entrepreneurs, but rewarding them for their faith in the American Dream!
3. Our education system needs to be overhauled. Failing schools, and those that run them can no longer be rewarded. Parents and educators must bear their responsibility in our children's education. My administration will support schools that educate, and ensure that children attending a school that is failing to educate them will have the opportunity to transfer to one that will.
4. As your Governor I will enforce and ensure that Michigan's rights are protected under the 10th Amendment of the United States Constitution. I will not allow the Federal Government to dictate by fiat, to the citizens of Michigan, impermissable control of our daily lives, or the businesses we run.
Stacey is not a "polished" politician. That may be both a negative and a positive in this year's campaign. She has a bit of the Sarah Palin in her that will appeal to some and be a turn-off to others. Realistically, Stacey has an extremely small chance of winning the campaign battle. But she is in a position to send a message if she makes it on the primary ballot.