In the flurry of midterms, term papers and MSU football, election day has snuck up on many students, and with it, the opportunity to elect a new governor and propel the state in a new direction. Haven’t had the chance to do your research? The State News compiled a quiz to help you find your political soulmate.
After the quiz, check out votevirg.com and rickformichigan.com to read more details on each candidate’s plan if elected governor, just to be sure.
1. When it comes to funding MSU and other state universities, the governor and Legislature should be concerned with:
A. “We do need to look at how we invest more in higher education over time because it’s a critical asset. … A longer term goal is to have more resources, but it should be based on outcomes and results, not simply writing more checks.”
B. “I want to fund (universities) at a level that they can remain competitive and be on the cutting edge of technology. I think that’s absolutely important, that they’re able to equip our students to compete and win in the global economy.”
2. Most students had the Michigan Promise Scholarship yanked from underneath them midway through college. Is it practical to bring it back now?
A. “I wouldn’t have done (the scholarship in) that way to begin with, where it was just basically support for all students. I think it should be more need-based … (and we should) define need more broadly.”
B. “It’s got to be restored, absolutely. … I’m concerned about the high level of debts that students are facing to get through college.”
3. Michigan’s history is rich in manufacturing and the auto industry. Following the recent recession, what is the fate of manufacturing in Michigan?
A. “While we must work to use more green energy in Michigan, we must also work to make more green energy. Michigan, with our vacant plants and our proud manufacturing history, can lead the nation in manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines that can be used across America and across the globe.”
B. “Our industries will need to be continually supported as they adjust to new realities, a new path forward for Michigan must emerge … an era of innovation that transforms our society into a vibrant force of entrepreneurs and innovators that can compete in the global economy.”
4. What policy will best promote urban development and flourishing cities in Michigan?
A. “For Michigan to become a great state again, its central cities must become communities of opportunity with positive reputations. … Michigan needs to … offer tax credits as an incentive for young professionals who choose to live and work in the city.”
B. “Young people tend to want to go to cities that work, vibrant cities (with) a great art scene, great cultural attractions, great public
transportation. … We need to have economic development policy, land-use policy, transportation policy, etc. — that promotes vibrant cities.”
5. How should Michigan’s tax structure be reformed?
A. “Eliminate the (Michigan Business Tax) surcharge … and work with the business community to create further reforms to make Michigan’s business taxes more fair and predictable.”
B. “Businesses should not have to navigate a complicated and unfair tax code that was written by politicians. … The Michigan Business
Tax (should) be replaced with a flat corporate income tax.”
Results:
1. A — 0 points; B — 1 point
2. A — 0 points; B — 1 point
Support student media! Please consider donating to The State News and help fund the future of journalism.
3. A — 1 point; B — 0 points
4. A — 0 points; B — 1 point
5. A — 1 point; B — 0 points
If you got two or fewer points:
You should vote for Ann Arbor businessman and Republican Rick Snyder. A non-politician, Snyder says he wants to hold government responsible and take a business approach to his leadership.
If you got three points:
You’re squarely on the fence. Do some more research and decide which issues are most important to you before you head off to the polls.
If you got four or five points:
It’s Democratic Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero for you. A veteran of both the state House of Representatives and state Senate, Bernero says he wants to fight for common citizens during Michigan’s economic recovery.
Sources: Virg Bernero; votevirg.com; Rick Snyder; rickformichigan.com
By Karen Confer
