District 35 has a special election coming up, and getting to know the candidates is one of the most important things we can do to vote with clarity and confidence. Below is an introductory overview of my conversation with Serenity Hope Salak. Watch the full interview video—the time-stamped sections make it easy to jump to the topics you care most about.
This conversation is part of Michigan Women’s mission to help residents learn about their local candidates in a straightforward, accessible way — without endorsements, partisanship, or spin.
https://www.serenityhope4senate.com/
Serenity is a lifelong Michigander, a mom of two, and a homeowner in Saginaw Township. Her background spans 11 years at the Department of Health and Human Services, including food assistance, Medicaid, emergency relief, and daycare support. After the pandemic shifted frontline roles into paperwork-heavy remote work, she transitioned into education — first as a substitute teacher, then as a paraprofessional, and today as a building substitute in Saginaw Public School District.
Her master’s degree in public administration, paired with her lived experience growing up in poverty, drives much of her perspective on community support systems, government programs, and school needs.
Serenity describes herself as someone who wants to meet people where they are, focus on relationships, and solve problems collaboratively. She also speaks openly about her faith and how service and compassion shape her leadership approach.
Serenity shared that she didn’t set out to run for office — but felt compelled after years of seeing how community challenges, under-resourced families, and structural barriers shape people’s lives. Her casework and classroom experience strongly influence her philosophy: listen, understand the barriers, and work alongside people to solve problems.
She acknowledges she’s running as a Democrat but emphasizes her independent thinking, a willingness to learn, and a focus on what constituents actually need rather than party positions.
Serenity spoke in depth about challenges across Midland, Bay City, and Saginaw, including:
She believes addressing childcare access is central to strengthening families and improving economic stability in the region.
Serenity talked about how many families struggle with reliable communication, transportation, and the logistics of juggling work and school schedules — realities that compound poverty. She shared ideas about meeting people where they already are and removing system barriers that prevent them from getting help.
Topics she raised include:
Serenity believes Michigan needs a new statewide approach to funding building maintenance and upgrades — one that doesn’t rely solely on property taxes or banks. She describes the current system as inequitable, especially for aging districts.
Her view centers on education, removing barriers to employment, and creating stability for families. She sees crime prevention as deeply tied to opportunity, support, and community relationships.
She discusses the costs of running for office and how high campaign budgets exclude working people from leadership positions. She openly critiques the influence of large donors and the pressure candidates face.
Serenity emphasized her commitment to District 35 — win or lose. She plans to stay engaged, stay visible, and continue supporting residents directly.