Former State Representative Driskell announces bid for US Congressional seat

Gretchen Driskell

Manchester's former State Representative, Gretchen Driskell has announced her candidacy for the United States House of Representatives Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, seeking to again represent Manchester, this time nationally. Currently, the 7th District which includes all of Monroe, Lenawee, Hillsdale, Branch, Jackson and Eaton Counties, as well as western Washtenaw County, is represented by Republican Tim Walberg.

At the announcement, Driskell focused on her history of job creation: “The economies in our towns need to be supported, so that everyone can make a living in the town they grew up in. No one should have to move to find work with all of the possibilities here at home for new and revitalized business.” She urged investments in small businesses, job market diversification, and a reinvestment in public education, vocational training, and apprenticeships. “We here in Michigan are known throughout the world for building and innovating, in shops large and small, and now is the time to build on these efforts.”

“We want a representative that works for the people in our hometowns, someone who understands our values and represents our interests. Rep. Walberg’s vote to raise premiums on families, older Americans, and those with preexisting conditions shows that he’s not listening to Michiganders,” she said, referencing to current Congressman Walberg’s history of partisanship and his vote for the Republican healthcare bill. “Our fellow citizens want to see their hard work pay the good wages that will let them provide for their families. Our communities deserve to be built up with strong infrastructure that gives us reliable roads, safe drinking water, and access to internet in every corner of the state.”

Driskell ran against Rep. Walberg in in the 2016 general election and lost 40% to 55%. The race was closely followed nationally as a large amount of money was spent on both sides and because analysts believed that the seat was vulnerable.

Driskell is a three term city councilwoman, seven term mayor, and two term state representative for the 52nd District in the Michigan House of Representatives. In addition to 14 years as Saline mayor, Driskell served six years on the Saline city council, and built a successful career in Saline as a real estate agent and accountant. Today Gretchen continues to live in Saline and is the proud mother of three children, Matthew an ensign in the U.S. Navy, Ryan, and Marielle and her granddaughter Chloe.

For more information, visit Driskell's 2018 campaign website at votegretchen.com.

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.