Manary announces intention to run for state House
MIDLAND, Mich. — Ann Manary, who is currently serving as Midland County Clerk, has announced her intentions to run for the Michigan House of Representatives, representing the 98th District.
“I have enjoyed serving the people every day. I wish to expand my commitment to public service by serving at the state level as the 98th District Representative,” Ms. Manary said in a prepared statement.
The district is currently represented by Annette Glenn. Ms. Glenn formed a committee to run for state Senate on Feb. 23. News of Ms. Manary’s announcement was first reported by the Daily News.
Ms. Manary has been Midland County Clerk since winning a nail-biter election in 2008 as a Democrat, defeating Scott Haines after he was appointed clerk under controversial circumstances. Since then, Ms. Manary has switched her political party to Republican.
In her announcement, Ms. Manary said that election reform, local flood recovery, and government transparency would be her top priorities.
“Among the many changes needed, I know that we must reform the election process to restore the people’s faith in it. Having served as the Chief Elections Officer of Midland County for more than a decade I know what changes need to be made to restore that faith. I am committed to doing what needs to be done to ensure that all elections in Michigan are fair and free of irregularities,” Ms. Manary said. “Furthermore, I have seen what the flood has done to our community. It will be important to hold those accountable whose actions and inactions precipitated this disaster, and, importantly, for me to do what is necessary to continue helping flood victims obtain the assistance they deserve. Finally, not only is accountability important in the private sector, but holding public officials accountable matters as well. To that end, I will support changes necessary to increase transparency in the political arena so the people know what their elected officials are doing and why. To continue restoring faith in our political process requires increased, not decreased, transparency and accountability.”
Michael Westendorf is the chairman and executive editor of Chemical City Paper. As Executive Editor, he leads the City Paper’s news coverage and editorial team.