A former mayor is taking another run at politics. Sam Singh of East Lansing officially entered the race for a seat in the 69th District of the State House of Representatives Wednesday.
He wants to replace current State Representative Mark Meadows, who has served all three terms allowed by the state.
"Number one issue that everyone looks at is education and then right behind that is the economy, they want to know there are jobs," Singh said.
The Democrat believes his 12 years in local government have equipped him to do the job, but he will have a challenger in the August 7th primary.
Meadow's former Chief of Staff Susan Schmidt also plans to run. She tells News 10 she will file official paperwork in the next few days and says five years of legislative experience give her the edge.
"In a time of term limits it is beneficial to know the ins and outs of the legislative process," Schmidt said. "I think the other thing I bring as an educator is I believe one of the most important things we should care about as a state is the accessibility of quality education."
Pollster and political expert Bernie Porn says it's unlikely the 69th District will play a role in the balance of house power. Historically, it leans blue.
"It would be difficult I think to have that district turn Republican and the candidates that have been running on the Republican side have been there before and lost," Porn added.
He says only a moderate Republican can win.
Meridian Township Supervisor Susan McGillicuddy hopes to be that candidate.
"I've always needed Democrats to vote for me and I want to be their favorite Republican," she said. "I've done a lot in the township that is not typical Republican work."
McGillicuddy says she's running to cut spending and keep Michigan business friendly.
"I don't believe in kicking the can to future generations," she said.
Also running on the Republican side, GM lineworker Frank Lambert. He could not be reached for comment.
Candidates have until May 15th to file the paperwork needed to enter the race.
