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HOUGHTON — State Representative Scott Dianda (D-Calumet) announced his candidacy for Michigan’s 38th State Senate District today amongst supporters across the Upper Peninsula. Dianda toured the U.P. making stops in Houghton, Marquette, Escanaba, Iron Mountain, Crystal Falls and Bessemer.
“I’m running to be your next State Senator because the status quo in Lansing is not working for the people,” said Dianda. “Republicans in Lansing have mismanaged our state by taxing seniors’ pensions, underfunding our children’s’ public education and disinvesting in our communities. I’m ready to continue the fight against this recklessness and set Lansing’s priorities straight.”
Dianda explained his priorities are focused around improving the quality of life for everyday U.P. residents and families by creating good-paying jobs in traditional and emerging industries in the U.P., making utility and energy services affordable and fully funding public education and local revenue sharing so U.P. communities can thrive.
“Through my travels listening to constituents, I hear from families, seniors and small businesses who are struggling to pay their bills while the wealthy and well-connected walk away with big tax breaks,” said Dianda. “It is time to adjust the billions of dollars in massive tax breaks for big corporations and put that money back into the pockets of hard working people who drive our economy.”
Dianda also garnered the support of former state Senator Mike Prusi (D-Ishpeming) who introduced him on the steps of the Marquette County courthouse.
“Scott is the strongest candidate to represent the needs and values of the Upper Peninsula in Lansing,” said Prusi. “I’m confident he will fight for us every single day just like he has been doing for the western U.P. as my state representative.”
Representative Dianda is currently serving his third term representing Michigan 110th House District. As a lifelong resident of the Upper Peninsula, Dianda previously worked as a transportation maintenance worker for the Michigan Department of Transportation after owning a small retail store in Calumet. He and his wife, Debbie, currently own and operate a small business in Houghton.
“I come from a proud family that has been involved in public service for five generations in the U.P.,” said Dianda. “With my experience, I know what it takes to find solutions, navigate complicated government bureaucracies and get things done for the people. That is the representation the U.P. deserves in Lansing.”
