District 35 Candidate Forum Recap (2025-12-02)

MI Senate District 35 candidates discuss voting rights, education funding, civil rights, and more. Get insights from the forum hosted by the LWV and NAACP.

The League of Women Voters of Saginaw County and the NAACP Saginaw Branch hosted a Michigan Senate District 35 Candidate Forum at Delta College on December 2, 2025, bringing together candidates and community members from Saginaw, Midland, and Bay Counties for an evening of civil discussion about Michigan’s future.

All candidates were invited to participate, but the Saginaw County Republican Party chose to host a separate event. Despite that decision, one Republican candidate attended the Delta College forum, joining Democratic candidates to answer questions on topics ranging from voting rights and public education to civil rights, economic opportunity, and public safety.

The event allowed voters to hear a range of perspectives in person and reinforced the importance of open, community-centered dialogue in local elections.

Table of Contents

• Introductions
• Q1 – Voting Rights and Proposal 3 (2018)
• Q2 – Public Education Funding and Teacher Shortages
• Q3 – Civil Rights and the Elliott-Larsen Act
• Q4 – Bridging the Partisan Divide
• Q5 – Economic Development, Jobs, and Housing
• Q6 – Public Safety and Law Enforcement
• Conclusions

Note:

• The candidates are listed in the order of the questioning at the event.
• View the Michigan Senate District 35 2026 Candidates article for links to each candidate's website, social profiles and more information.

Introductions

Brandell Adams (D)

• Opened by thanking organizers and saying the event reflected true democracy in action.
• Spoke about the district’s lack of strong representation in Lansing and the need for steady, working-class leadership.
• Emphasized priorities like protecting good-paying jobs, lowering the cost of living, and improving community well-being.
• Shared personal experience with financial struggles and local service, promising to fight for a better quality of life for Mid-Michigan families.

Martin Blank (D)

• Thanked the League of Women Voters, the NAACP, and attendees for supporting civic engagement.
• Highlighted a career of service as a Saginaw police officer, trauma surgeon, and Army Reserve colonel with three deployments and a Bronze Star for leadership.
• Said working families in Mid-Michigan are falling behind and deserve a leader who understands their struggles.
• Pledged to fight for good-paying jobs, strong public schools, accessible healthcare, reproductive rights, and democracy.

Chedrick Greene (D)

• Introduced himself as a Marine veteran, a longtime firefighter, and a proud union member with deep roots in the community.
• Spoke about his parents leaving the Jim Crow South for opportunity in Michigan and his desire to restore that promise.
• Highlighted his experience working in state government as a district assistant for former Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet.
• Said working families need a trusted, working-class leader who will fight for economic fairness and protect fundamental freedoms.

William Morrone (D)

• Introduced himself as a family practice doctor with 25 years of experience in primary care and behavioral health, serving Midland, Saginaw, and Bay Counties.
• Noted his roles as chief medical examiner and Midland County deputy sheriff, emphasizing collaboration with law enforcement.
• Said he wants to change the tone of politics by replacing fear with cooperation and understanding between parties.
• Called for restructuring healthcare to address long wait times, high costs, and insurance coverage issues.

Chadwick Twillman (R)

• Introduced himself as a Mid-Michigan native and family man with no government background.
• Said he entered the race to expose corruption in Lansing and restore accountability in government.
• Spoke about personally delivering three of his five children as an act of defiance against what he called “medical tyranny.”
• Emphasized his outsider perspective and urged voters to visit his campaign website to learn about his plan for reform.

Pamela Pugh (D)

• Thanked the League of Women Voters and the NAACP, sharing personal ties to Delta College, where she grew up and studied.
• Introduced herself as president of the State Board of Education, a public health scientist, and a lifelong advocate for working families.
• Emphasized electability, noting that this seat could determine Senate control, highlighting her statewide experience, fundraising success, and over 60 endorsements.
• Cited her record of leadership during crises, including supporting families affected by environmental and educational injustices, and said she’s proven, trusted, and ready to deliver for the district.

Serenity Hope Salak (D)

• Opened with humor about standing during her introduction, then introduced herself as a mother, wife, and first-time candidate inspired to run after realizing “nothing changes when the same people keep running.”
• Said she wants to inspire ordinary people to see that public service is accessible and that anyone can step up to lead.
• Shared her personal story of growing up in poverty, relying on programs like food assistance, Medicaid, and Head Start, and becoming a first-generation college graduate.
• Advocated for policies like single-payer healthcare, free daycare, and expanded support systems to help families and ensure dignity for all.

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Candidates Not in Attendance

These three candidates held separate forums at the same time, in a different location. Michigan Women was not there and is unable to provide an overview of that event.

• Andrew Carlos Wendt (R)
• Christian Velasquez (R)
• Jason Tunney (R)

1. Voting Rights and Proposal 3 (2018)

What is your position regarding the efforts of some state elected officials to turn back constitutional provisions of Proposal 3, passed by voters in 2018, which expanded voters’ ability to participate in the electoral process?

What is Proposal 3?

Proposal 3 was approved by voters in a statewide ballot initiative in 2018, with 66.9% voting yes, and 33.1% voting no. It authorized U.S citizens qualified to vote in Michigan to:

• Automatically be registered to vote when applying for, updating, or renewing a driver's license or state-issued personal ID card, unless the person declines.
• Simultaneously register to vote with proof of residency and obtain a ballot during the 2-week period before an election, up to and including Election Day.
• Obtain an absent voter ballot without providing a reason.
• Cast a straight-ticket vote for all candidates of a particular party when voting in a partisan election.

What is the controversy?

In 2023, nearly a dozen Michigan Republican lawmakers filed a lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Michigan, arguing that measures passed by citizen-led petition initiatives are unconstitutional because they infringe on the state Legislature's role within the state election law.

The U.S. Supreme Court refused to take up the case.

What did the candidates say?

• Dr. William Morrone – Emphasized that “liberty and justice for all” applies to civic life and voting rights. Argued that undocumented residents should be helped to gain legal status rather than excluded and that officials need education, not division, on protecting democracy.
• Chadwick Green – Highlighted that Proposal 3 passed by a wide margin with strong support from groups like the League of Women Voters and the NAACP. Explained that it improved election integrity through audits and made voting more accessible for working-class residents by allowing same-day registration and no-reason absentee voting.
• Martin Blank – Described Proposal 3 as a landmark reform that expanded voting access through automatic and same-day registration and no-reason absentee voting. Praised the creation of the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission for making elections fairer and pledged to protect and expand voting rights to ensure every resident has a voice.
• Brandell Adams — Stressed the importance of participation and engagement in democracy, warning that some people want fewer citizens to vote or stay informed. Argued that restricting access to the polls is a tactic used when policies are unpopular and emphasized continuing efforts to make voting accessible for all, including working people and service members.
• Chadwick Twillman Emphasized that voting is a fundamental American right and that every citizen should have full access to participate. Noted being the only Republican candidate to attend, and proposed exploring secure blockchain-based digital voting as a way to make elections more accessible and trustworthy.
• Dr. Pamela Pugh – Compared current voting restriction efforts to historical injustices like Black Codes and Jim Crow laws. Warned that initiatives such as Project 2025, the SAVE Act, and HJRB threaten voting rights, and pledged to continue opposing any legislation that undermines access to the ballot.
• Serenity Hope Salak – Built on Dr. Pugh’s remarks by saying efforts to limit voting come from fear of people’s collective power. Explained her campaign motto, “show up, lift up, rise up,” as a call for ordinary people to participate and lead. Spoke about inspiring others to run and seeing parts of her platform adopted by fellow candidates. Concluded that she values respect across political lines and wants to represent regular people with consistency and integrity in Lansing.

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2. Public Education Funding and Teacher Shortages

Adequate and stable funding of public education in the State of Michigan remains a major concern for many parents and citizens across the state, along with the teacher shortage. The concern is heightened by efforts from some in the legislature who want to divert public education funds to non-public institutions. What will you do as our legislative representative to ensure greater stability in the funding for public education and to address the teacher shortage?

What is the controversy?

There’s an ongoing debate in Michigan about whether taxpayer money should go to private or religious schools. Supporters call it “school choice,” but critics say it takes money away from public schools that already struggle with funding and teacher shortages.

What did the candidates say?

• Chadwick Twillman – Called education his top priority and said Michigan’s school system has been poorly managed for too long. Described plans for a $50 million, five-year initiative to improve education by hiring more teachers and counselors, empowering parents, supporting homeschooling options, and creating a youth council to ensure transparency and accountability.
• Pamela Pugh – Noted that 70 years after Brown v. Board of Education, Michigan still hasn’t achieved equitable education. Cited chronic underfunding identified by the School Finance Research Collaborative and called for weighted funding for students in poverty, English learners, and those with disabilities. Criticized past cuts under the Snyder administration and compared education spending to prison costs. Pledged to prioritize school facility upgrades and equitable funding as a state senator.
• Serenity Hope Salak - Shared her personal experience as an unlicensed teacher who couldn’t afford the high cost of certification, arguing that Michigan needs more accessible and affordable teacher accreditation programs. Said not all teaching roles require a bachelor’s degree and emphasized getting qualified educators into classrooms faster. Critiqued Twillman’s proposal for hiring 200 teachers as insufficient, given local shortages, and stressed the need to respect and retain teachers, not just fill positions.
• Brandell Adams – Warned against the misuse of public education funds, citing a Florida charter school that never opened after receiving taxpayer money. Criticized for-profit operators who enrich themselves while failing students. Called for expanding tuition-free higher education, fully funding workforce programs like the Going PRO Talent Fund, investing in apprenticeships, and removing barriers such as childcare and transportation costs. Supported universal pre-K and policies to keep Michigan graduates working in-state.
• Martin Blank – Emphasized that public education is essential to strong communities and that every child deserves equal opportunity regardless of zip code. Called for increased funding to address teacher shortages, aging infrastructure, and mental health needs. Advocated better pay and support for teachers, bus drivers, and school staff, plus more career and technical education options linked with unions and colleges. Stressed that public dollars must stay in public schools, with full transparency for any charter or choice programs.
• Chedrick Greene – Stated that every child deserves access to quality education in safe schools and credited public education for shaping his own family’s success. Criticized decades of Republican-led disinvestment in Michigan’s schools, noting that recent funding increases don’t undo long-term damage. Drew on his experience working with superintendents and teachers to highlight ongoing challenges like underfunding, special education needs, and teachers paying out of pocket for supplies. Pledged to prioritize full and equitable funding for public schools.
• William Morrone – Argued that when funding is limited, Michigan should use creative cost-sharing strategies to maximize resources. Highlighted successful models like early college programs that let students earn credits through local universities and community colleges. Drew parallels to mental health and criminal justice initiatives where integrated treatment reduces recidivism, suggesting education can benefit from similar collaboration. Emphasized thinking broadly and innovatively to improve opportunities for students.

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3. Civil Rights and Discrimination

Some representatives have stated that efforts to eliminate discrimination and ensure enforcement of the Elliott–Larsen Civil Rights Act should be scaled back. What priority do you place on eliminating discrimination and racism in our state? Are you willing to support adequate funding for the Michigan Department of Civil Rights, and why?

What is the Elliot-Larsen Civil Rights Act?

• Fair treatment for everyone. It says people in Michigan must be treated equally in jobs, housing, schools, and public places.
• No discrimination. It’s illegal to treat someone differently because of their race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, height, weight, marital status, or disability.
• Equal access. Everyone gets the same chance to rent a place, get a job, go to school, or use public services.
• Accountability. Employers, landlords, and schools can be investigated or punished if they break these rules.
• Updated protections. The law now also covers sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression (added in 2023).

In short: it’s Michigan’s main civil-rights law that bans discrimination and makes sure everyone gets a fair shot.

What's the controversy?

The 2023 expansion of the law sparked debate. Supporters said it was a historic step toward equality for LGBTQ+ residents. Critics — mostly Republican lawmakers and some religious organizations — argued that the expansion could conflict with religious freedoms, forcing faith-based schools or businesses to act against their beliefs. Some legislators have since suggested “scaling back” the law or adding broader religious exemptions.

What did the candidates say?

• Brandell Adams – Drew from his experience at Delta College to emphasize the value of inclusive leadership and representation in education. Praised efforts to expand access and belonging while warning against those trying to roll back social progress. Stressed the need to protect opportunities for marginalized groups, including women, LGBTQ+ individuals, and people of color, pledging to stand against discrimination and support equity across Michigan communities.
• Martin Blank – Called for Michigan to be a place where equality is more than a promise, emphasizing justice, fairness, and opportunity for all. Advocated expanding voting access, reforming criminal justice to end discriminatory sentencing, and supporting diversion programs that uphold dignity. Highlighted the need to close racial and economic gaps through fair wages, affordable housing, and better access to healthcare and education. Committed to defending LGBTQ+ rights and racial equality across all sectors.
• Chedrick Greene – Emphasized that protecting freedom for some protects it for everyone, linking this belief to the spirit of the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act. Reflected on his oath to defend the U.S. and Michigan constitutions and uphold the rule of law. Cautioned that the rollback of Roe v. Wade illustrates how fragile civil rights can be. Stated that true service means defending everyone’s right to live and love freely, regardless of political or personal differences.
• William Morrone – Argued that civil rights protection shouldn’t rely solely on Lansing, as local engagement is essential. Proposed creating local civil rights offices—similar to health department programs like WIC—to ensure every community takes civil rights seriously. Emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement and education, suggesting that civil rights awareness should begin in high schools to strengthen understanding and accountability at the local level.
• Chadwick Twillman – Expressed agreement that caring for neighbors and rejecting racial profiling are essential to justice. Suggested innovative ideas like using AI in courtrooms to ensure fairness and real-time accountability for judges and prosecutors, along with increased transparency measures such as courtroom cameras. Recounted a conversation about gentrification, disagreeing with the notion of containing crime to certain areas, and emphasized that every community deserves equal attention and opportunity.
• Pamela Pugh – Framed civil rights as a daily fight, not a theory, highlighting threats to public education, diversity initiatives, and reproductive rights. Recounted leading efforts with the NAACP that pushed Governor Whitmer to declare racism a public health crisis and supporting Detroit students who sued the state for their right to literacy. Mentioned formally challenging federal directives she viewed as civil rights violations. Emphasized that Michigan’s racial and gender economic disparities—such as high unemployment among Black women—reflect systemic inequities that demand bold leadership, not caution.
• Serenity Hope Salak – Spoke with empathy as a mother and advocate for people of color, sharing personal experiences of racism her own family faces. Called for increased funding for civil rights offices and greater representation of diverse voices in Lansing. Praised the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act for protecting people across race, gender identity, and income, saying inclusivity helps Michigan attract and retain families. Urged better civics education so citizens can recognize and defend their rights, promising to be a steadfast advocate for equality and dignity.

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4. Bridging the Partisan Divide

What specific steps will you take to bridge the partisan divide that exists in the legislature? What in your experience has prepared you to be successful in reaching out to the other side of the aisle to ensure that legislative decisions reflect the best interests of all citizens in the State of Michigan?

What's the controversy?

Michigan’s political climate has become increasingly polarized, mirroring national trends. Partisan gridlock in Lansing has stalled progress on major issues such as education funding, infrastructure, and election reform. The controversy isn’t over the idea of bipartisanship itself—but over who’s to blame for the division and how to fix it.

Democrats argue that extremist rhetoric and election denial within parts of the Republican Party have made compromise difficult. Many Republicans counter that one-party Democratic control of state government since 2023 has led to a lack of collaboration and transparency. The result is a growing public frustration that lawmakers spend more time fighting each other than solving problems that affect everyday Michiganders.

What did the candidates say?

• Chadwick Twillman – Emphasized the need to move beyond partisan labels, arguing that focusing on “Republican versus Democrat” only creates division. Pointed out that he attended the forum while other Republican candidates did not, framing it as proof of his commitment to open dialogue. Called for more community-level conversations and cooperation, noting that most people share common goals. Urged lawmakers to focus on solving real issues—like infrastructure and education—rather than fueling political polarization.
• Pamela Pugh – Pointed to her experience on the State Board of Education as proof of her ability to work across party lines. Recalled collaborating with Republican board members during Governor Snyder’s administration to prevent 38 schools from closing, including outreach to the Saginaw NAACP. Highlighted that while disagreements happen, she always prioritizes people over politics and supports legislation that serves the public good.
• Serenity Hope Salak – Shared that her background as a longtime member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and being raised by Republican parents has helped her build relationships across political lines. Said she regularly discusses politics respectfully with family and friends, showing that civil dialogue is possible. Emphasized the need for peacemakers and problem solvers in Lansing rather than finger-pointers. Pledged to represent all voices with honesty and courage, working to make Michigan a welcoming and thriving place for families.
• Brandell Adams – Drew on his experience as a twice-elected official in Bridgeport Township to illustrate his ability to bridge political divides. Recounted working with a newly elected Republican colleague whose campaign had been highly critical, but through open conversation, they found common ground and mutual respect. Said their collaboration led to real progress for the township, showing that intentional dialogue and willingness to listen can overcome partisanship.
• Martin Blank – Said his background as a police officer taught him how to resolve conflicts and work with people from different perspectives but argued that today’s political climate makes true bipartisanship difficult. Criticized Trump-aligned Republicans and “MAGA extremists” for undermining elections and democratic norms. Expressed frustration that meaningful cooperation isn’t possible without willing partners and said real progress will only come when such obstructionist politics are voted out.
• Chedrick Greene – Emphasized that bipartisan cooperation is essential, especially during budget season when major state and education funding decisions are made. Drew on his 30 years of experience serving with people of all political and religious backgrounds, saying he’s always worked for the common good regardless of differences. Compared his public service to firefighting and military duty, where teamwork transcends politics. Pledged to find equitable solutions that help working families thrive through collaboration between both parties.
• William Morrone – Agreed with Greene on the need for collaboration but disagreed with Blank’s view that bipartisanship is impossible. Said leaders must set a new tone by listening, understanding, and communicating respectfully rather than spreading fear or false narratives. Drew from his medical experience, noting that he’s worked with countless people holding different beliefs and that successful dialogue—like medicine—depends on empathy and accurate communication. Suggested that even small gestures, like sharing a meal, can help bridge divides and foster cooperation.

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5. District and State Challenges

What do you perceive as the biggest challenges in your district that should be addressed by the State Legislature? What are the biggest challenges impacting the state as a whole, and how do you plan to balance those priorities?

What did the candidates say?

• Brandell Adams – Said affordability is the biggest issue affecting everyone and that policy should focus on practical economic solutions. Outlined priorities including talent attraction, education reform, housing development, and innovation hubs. Called for expanding the child tax credit, improving access to childcare and higher education, and addressing Michigan’s housing shortage by reducing red tape and incentivizing developers to build affordable housing for working families.
• Martin Blank – Pointed to the 2020 dam failures as proof that Michigan must invest in stronger infrastructure and public safety systems. Supported funding for road reconstruction, flood mitigation, and environmental protections like lead pipe replacement and clean water monitoring. Stressed that infrastructure and disaster recovery programs should be equitable, transparent, and accountable. Also emphasized expanding STEM, technical education, and workforce development to prepare students for local jobs in clean energy, healthcare, and skilled trades.
• Chedrick Greene – Said the district’s biggest challenge is the lack of good-paying jobs and affordable housing. Drew on his experience serving on Governor Whitmer’s statewide housing partnership, where he helped direct $800 million for housing projects across Michigan. Noted that while regions like Detroit and Traverse City have many shovel-ready projects, Saginaw and Midland have almost none. Emphasized the need to attract developers, create housing opportunities, and bring quality jobs that allow working families to build stability and stay in the community.
• William Morrone – Argued that Michigan must focus on preventing plant closures to protect existing jobs before creating new ones. Noted that the state has lost auto industry positions to Indiana and Ohio and called for a strategy to bring them back. Suggested involving unions early when courting manufacturers like Nissan or Toyota to build cooperative relationships rather than adversarial ones. Said rebuilding trust between labor and industry is key to strengthening Michigan’s economy and retaining good jobs.
• Chadwick Twillman – Said he believes Michigan can fix infrastructure and education challenges while also addressing housing affordability. Argued that the real issue isn’t job creation but eliminating taxes—specifically property and income taxes—while still maintaining balanced state revenue. Explained that his proposed funding solutions would rely on federal and state funds as well as grants, not new taxes. Emphasized that lowering the tax burden would help young families afford homes and stay in Michigan.
• Pamela Pugh – Highlighted the economic disparities across the region, noting unemployment rates of 11.8% in Saginaw and 8.9% in Bay City, with Black women disproportionately affected—earning just 66 cents to the dollar and facing 10% unemployment. Said Michigan must prioritize “economic dignity” by expanding access to affordable childcare and safe housing. Drew on her experience at the Saginaw County Health Department to emphasize that local governments can’t continue balancing budgets through privatization or at the expense of struggling residents.
• Serenity Hope Salak – Said Michigan must stop balancing budgets on the backs of working families and called for raising the corporate tax rate from 6% to 8.5% to fund essential programs. Argued that poverty is one of the state’s biggest challenges and proposed universal daycare so parents can work, retrain, and keep more of their income. Advocated cutting red tape for small businesses, citing her parents’ local driving school as an example of hardworking entrepreneurs. Recalled the fear she felt during the Wixom Dam failure near her home, using it to stress the need for accountable leadership and investment in public safety and infrastructure.

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6. Public Safety and Law Enforcement

Will you support legislative efforts for resources and programs that enhance the ability of local and state law enforcement officials to address public safety issues in both urban and rural areas of our state, particularly those that directly impact students, such as school safety initiatives?

What is the controversy?

Debates over public safety in Michigan often center on how police departments should be funded and which safety programs deserve support. Some lawmakers call for more funding for law enforcement and school resource officers, arguing it’s essential to protect communities and prevent violence. Others emphasize redirecting resources toward prevention — such as mental health services, community outreach, and school-based counselors — saying those efforts reduce violence more effectively than more policing.

The tension lies in balancing accountability, safety, and funding priorities. Critics of increased police funding point to concerns over police misconduct and systemic bias, while supporters argue that underfunding law enforcement leaves communities vulnerable.

What did the candidates say?

• Chadwick Twillman – Said he already has twelve bills written and emphasized that this special election will fill only the remainder of a four-year term, so the winner must be ready to act quickly. Outlined two proposed bills: one focused on youth crime prevention through after-school programs and another aimed at improving transparency and accountability in law enforcement and the courts. Advocated for better funding and education for police while ensuring public oversight. Noted that his plans—costing $25 million and $50 million—would rely on state funds and grants, not new taxes.
• Pamela Pugh – Supported stronger partnerships between law enforcement and communities, framing public safety as a public health issue. Said each community should decide what works best for them, such as the role of school resource officers. Highlighted her role in increasing Michigan’s mental health budget from zero to one-third of a billion dollars, stressing that investing in social supports helps law enforcement focus on safety while communities address root causes of crime.
• Serenity Hope Salak – Drew on her 11 years as a caseworker, saying police shouldn’t be expected to act as social workers. Proposed pairing officers with caseworkers during calls, especially for domestic violence, to help de-escalate and connect families to services. Said economic stress fuels crime and that people with stable jobs and support don’t offend. Called for expanded after-school programs and universal childcare to keep kids engaged and make Michigan a place where families want to live and work.
• Brandell Adams – Said the key to effective public safety is listening to local law enforcement and giving them the resources they need without micromanaging. Recounted his experience in Bridgeport Township, where he met with the police chief to understand recruitment challenges and found that no one had asked for the chief’s input in 12 years. Said that collaboration led to practical solutions and pledged to take the same approach as state senator—listening to local leaders, providing support, and letting them do their jobs to keep communities safe.
• Martin Blank – Said public safety goes beyond policing and requires investing in stronger, more resilient communities. Supported community policing, de-escalation training, and body cameras while addressing root causes of crime through mental health care, addiction treatment, and youth mentorship. Called for criminal justice reform to reduce racial disparities and expand rehabilitation and re-entry programs. Also emphasized infrastructure safety, disaster preparedness, and technology upgrades to protect residents while balancing security with civil liberties.
• Chedrick Greene – Drew on 27 years of public safety experience, saying community safety means protecting children, residents, and businesses alike. Pledged to ensure law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, and dispatchers have the staffing and resources they need. Stressed collaboration with mental health professionals to address root causes of violence and identified gun violence as a major threat to youth. Described himself as a responsible gun owner who supports common-sense gun laws.
• William Morrone – Disagreed with the idea that law enforcement aren’t social workers, saying officers must be trained in those skills to de-escalate and handle crises effectively. Argued that mental health failures are at the core of public safety issues, with many arrests involving people who need treatment, not jail. Called for early mental health intervention in junior high and high schools to prevent long-term problems and substance abuse. Emphasized “cost shifting” — investing in mental health services upfront instead of relying on police and incarceration later.

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Conclusions

Salak

• Thanked the audience for attending and engaging in civil discussion, urging them to share what they learned with others.
• Spoke humbly about standing alongside highly accomplished candidates, describing herself as an ordinary Michigander juggling family and daily responsibilities.
• Reflected on her own journey, shaped by assistance programs, perseverance, and community support, and expressed a desire to help others succeed as she has.
• Closed with pride in her Michigan roots and optimism for making the state one of the best places to live, work, and raise a family.

Pugh

• Thanked the hosts and attendees, emphasizing that running for office takes courage and teamwork.

• Described herself as a lifelong community member who has fought for clean water, children’s well-being, and affordable living.

• Called for policies that ensure people don’t have to choose between food and medicine, supporting Medicare for All and affordable housing.

• Framed herself as a proven, experienced leader who fights for working families—not corporations—and asked voters for their support on February 3rd.

Twillman

• Thanked everyone for attending and acknowledged the courage it takes for candidates to run for office.
• Said he appreciates being invited even though some in his own party didn’t support his participation, emphasizing the importance of hearing directly from all candidates.
• Shared three guiding principles he keeps on his office whiteboard: love your neighbor, care for the poor, and seek justice.
• Expressed his faith and belief in unity, saying that even though he supports Donald Trump, he’s committed to listening, respecting differences, and working together for the community.

Morrone

• Recalled leading efforts a decade ago to equip police and sheriffs with Narcan to combat fentanyl and heroin deaths, despite initial resistance.
• Described how widespread education and collaboration across counties made Narcan a standard tool in law enforcement, schools, and libraries.
• Emphasized that saving lives transcends party politics — addiction affects everyone, not just one side.
• Said this kind of creative, bipartisan problem-solving is the approach needed in Lansing, where true representation matters more than electability.

Greene