News & Updates

Why I'm Running for State Senate

The Upper Peninsula deserves a State Senator who will stand up for us — not one who goes along to get along in Lansing. That's why I'm running for the District 38 seat.

For five years, I represented the U.P. in the State House. I took on Governor Whitmer's overreach. I defended your Second Amendment rights. I held the line on property rights against the DNR. And I'm ready to keep up that work in the State Senate.

My opponent, Dave Prestin, has the backing of the Lansing establishment. But endorsements from career politicians don't impress me — and I don't think they impress you either. What matters is results, and I have a proven track record of delivering for Yoopers.

Prestin's Legislative Record: By the Numbers

Since taking office in January 2023, Dave Prestin has cast over 1,400 votes. But what has he actually accomplished?

• 34 bills sponsored — roughly one per month
• 11 amendments proposed — fewer than 4 per year
• 14% lifetime score from the Michigan League of Conservation Voters

His signature legislation — the DNR warrant bills (HB 4073/4074) — passed the House but stalled in the Senate. Most of his work has been committee assignments and uncontroversial measures.

Compare that to Beau LaFave, who in his first term alone introduced articles of impeachment against Governor Whitmer and made national headlines for his bold defense of Second Amendment rights.

Verify Prestin's record at MichiganVotes.org

The Establishment Lines Up Behind Prestin

Dave Prestin has secured endorsements from outgoing Senator Ed McBroom, Rep. Greg Markkanen, and Diane Casperson (widow of late Senator Tom Casperson).

When every establishment Republican lines up behind one candidate, it's worth asking: who does that candidate really serve?

The Lansing establishment wants predictable politicians who won't rock the boat. They want legislators who will go along to get along, sponsor safe bills, and collect committee assignments without causing trouble.

Is that what District 38 needs? Or does the UP need someone willing to fight — even when it's uncomfortable?

Federal Election Monitor Controversy

In late 2025, Dave Prestin joined other Republican legislators in signing a letter asking U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi to deploy federal election monitors for Michigan's 2026 elections.

A letter to the editor in The Mining Journal called the request "reprehensible," arguing it risks bringing actual malfeasance to elections and questioning the lawmakers' judgment.

Even some conservative voters have questioned whether this was the right move. Is inviting federal intervention into Michigan elections consistent with conservative principles of limited government and state sovereignty?