To the editor:

In case you haven’t heard the news, I’ve been working on a political campaign this summer. My newest friend and mentor, Garnet Lewis is running for the 26th District State Senate seat currently held by term-limited Tonya Schuitmaker.

This is the first time in years that we have potential to flip the State Senate district! I am writing to share why I decided to fully support, donate to, and work for Garnet, in hopes that you can too.

1) Garnet is a dedicated public servant. She is chair of the City of Saugatuck Planning Commission and a member of the City of Saugatuck Board of Review. Garnet has a long history of civic and social service in her community and Michigan.

2) Garnet knows the importance of sustainable practices and environmental protection. We must assure the long-term health of the heart of our economy: The environment.

3) Garnet is the only candidate endorsed by Moms Demand Action. She stands with the Parkland students and intends to pass common sense gun control and safety measures.

4) Garnet values a good public education. She worked 25+ years as an administrator in public higher education. In her last post, at Central Michigan University, she guided students into and through the teacher education training and certification process. As your State Senator, Garnet will work tirelessly to see that all aspects of Michigan’s public education system becomes competitive with any other system in the nation.

5) Garnet believes that access to health care is a basic human right. She knows we need a single-payer system and improved access.

While I could go on and deeper, I think you get the point. I strongly believe that Garnet is a woman of character, moral integrity, and servant leader. She truly cares about every person, believing they deserve a fair shot. For more about her positions go to: https://www.garnetlewisforstatesenate.com/on-the-issues .

Her opponent, Republican Aric Nesbitt, is a career politician beholden to special interests like the Koch Brothers. Garnet isn’t relying on special interests, she is relying on us.

I have yard signs available for Garnet, if you’d like one, let me know. Currently, I am living on the campus of GVSU during the week but can make arrangements for a delivery.

One last thing – tell your friends about Garn and let’s make a positive change this November!

Austin Marsman, GVSU freshman, Martin High School graduate