Mike Bouchard, who hopes to represent the Republican Party in the 2010 race for governor, visited Clare on Tuesday, August 25.
Bouchard is currently the Sheriff in Oakland County and the former owner of a Yogurt and Ice Cream shop. So, naturally he stopped into The Cops and Donuts shop. Next, Bouchard stopped by the Clare County Review and discussed his platform
Bouchard had no intention on running for governor and quickly found that he would be transitioning from a “cheerleader to a candidate”. As a result of being in the Senate for over 8 years, he’s familiar with restructuring, and eliminating a billion dollar plus deficit. “I have the backbone for making tough decisions,” said Bouchard.
Bouchard explained that one of his main reasons for running for governor is because of his wife, Pam and their 3 children. Becoming the next Governor would ensure that his children as well as others didn’t have to leave the state of Michigan. “People shouldn’t have to leave Michigan to have a future”, said Bouchard.
Bouchard also explained that his experience as Oakland County Sheriff, (where he handles a $130 million budget and 1,200 employees) adds to his list of credentials.
“Michigan leads the Midwest in violent crimes” Bouchard stated. He also stated “I don’t think we’ll get Michigan back to work until we fix Lansing”.
He commented about the 167 State Employees being laid off and “100 of those are Troopers”, Bouchard said. He questioned how Michigan could have such a high crime rate and end up with less police. He noted, if there are less police then the crime rate is going to increase. “If there is recipe for problems, then this is it” he said.
When asked about who his competition was in the campaign, Bouchard replied, “I focus on what is important and what needs to be done, I’m not worried about the next election. I’m worried about the next generation”.
Clare County Review Mike Wilcox
