Mary White
ford has announced she will be a candidate in next August’s Republican primary for state representative in the 80th District.
Whiteford, a resident of Casco Township, was one of four candidates in the August primary in 2014, a race won by plurality by State Rep. Cindy Gamrat. However, Gamrat is embroiled in a sex scandal and alleged coverup with fellow State Rep. Todd Courser.
Whiteford, a community actvist and nurse, said, “The 80th district needs a representative with drive and passion that can effectively represent the district. My campaign will focus on the voters and the serious issues facing Allegan County and Michigan and how they impact the residents… We must prepare our children to enter a highly competitive workforce, we must promote individual liberty and economic freedom to help the private sector create jobs, and we must defend our conservative values. My campaign will be about solutions not distractions.”
The 80th District includes all of Allegan County except Wayland City, Wayland Township, Leighton Township and Dorr Township.
“My thoughts and prayers go to Cindy Gamrat and her family,” said Whiteford. “Nonetheless, this district needs effective representation, now, and Cindy Gamrat can no longer provide that for the constituents. The developments over the past few weeks have made it clear that it will be very difficult for Cindy Gamrat to effectively serve Allegan County because the public trust has been broken.
“The people of the Allegan County’s 80th District deserve better. Whether it be next week or next year, Rep. Gamrat needs to be replaced by someone who can be an effective and credible voice for people of Allegan County now and into the future.”
Gamrat and Courser are under investigation of a House committee to determine whether they they used their aides to cover up their extra-marital affair.
“Over the coming weeks and months I will be attending meetings, going door-to-door, and hosting coffee hours throughout Allegan County,” Whiteford said. “I will answer any questions and be available to every voter. Today, more than ever, we need a representative who knows this job and will be a good steward of the community.”
PHOTO: Mary Whiteford
