Oakland County Elections: Meet the Candidates
As the city gears up for the upcoming elections, Oakland County is buzzing with excitement and anticipation. With a diverse range of candidates vying for key positions, residents are poised to make crucial decisions that will shape their community for the next several years. Here’s a closer look at the major candidates running for office, each bringing unique backgrounds and visions to the table.
Dave Coulter: A Steady Leader
Serving as Oakland County executive since 2019, Dave Coulter hails from Ferndale and has a wealth of experience. He previously spent four terms as an Oakland County commissioner and was appointed mayor of Ferndale in 2011. After the passing of former executive L. Brooks Patterson, Coulter was appointed to take on the role and was subsequently elected in 2020 as the first Democrat to hold this position. With a degree from Michigan State University and further education from Harvard, Coulter is focused on continuing his work in the community as he seeks a second term.
Nik Gjonaj: A Fresh Perspective
Political newcomer Nik Gjonaj, from Clarkston, believes that his lack of traditional political experience will not hinder his journey. Raised by Albanian immigrants in a union household, Gjonaj learned the value of hard work early on. He attended Wayne State University and UCLA before taking charge of his family’s restaurant business. Now selling business insurance, Gjonaj still maintains strong ties to his community through his work at St. Paul Albanian Catholic Church. His approach to leadership focuses on collaboration and bringing experts to the decision-making table.
Karen McDonald: Champion for Justice
Karen McDonald was elected as the Oakland County prosecutor in 2020, building on her extensive background as a circuit judge specializing in child welfare cases. Her dedication to championing children’s rights and domestic violence prevention has garnered recognition over the years. McDonald’s prior experience as an English teacher and assistant prosecuting attorney makes her well-prepared for her current role, and her leadership on the state’s juvenile justice reform task force highlights her commitment to positive change in the legal system.
Scott Farida: A Focus on Modernization
Former assistant prosecuting attorney Scott Farida has a solid track record of modernization efforts in the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office. Graduating cum laude from the University of Detroit-Mercy Law School, Farida developed a 100% conviction rate during his tenure and has recently transitioned to private practice. Passionate about serving the community, he aims to bring his experience as a Chaldean American and a small business owner into his campaign.
Mike Bouchard: Veteran Lawman
Mike Bouchard has held the position of Oakland County Sheriff since 1999 and is running for his seventh term. Known for his extensive experience in public service, he has previously served in the state legislature and worked as a police officer. Bouchard’s leadership has earned him national accolades, making him the only Republican holding a county-wide office in Oakland County. As a seasoned veteran, he is committed to maintaining safety and order within the community.
Amrit Kohli: A New Vision for Policing
Another new face in the race, Amrit Kohli from Ferndale has a unique perspective on law enforcement. Although he has no formal experience in policing or politics, his work in IT and passion for music shape his vision for the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office. Kohli focuses on significant reforms, advocating for a shift in funding towards mental health programs instead of traditional law enforcement. He briefly exited the race but has expressed intentions to run, showcasing a commitment to social change.
Lisa Brown: An Award-Winning Leader
Lisa Brown seeks her fourth term as Oakland County Clerk/Register of Deeds after gaining recognition for her innovative and efficient office operations. As a former state representative and lieutenant governor candidate, she continues to work on early voting initiatives and has received numerous awards for her accomplishments. Brown has a strong vision for engaging communities in the political process.
Barb Pallotta: Bringing Experience to the Table
Barb Pallotta, a newcomer to county politics, boasts years of experience in local government, having served as Independence Township clerk. After a brief retirement, she is back in the political arena with guidance from the Oakland County Republican Party. Her emphasis on community values and efficient government will be key as she seeks election.
Robert Wittenberg: Financial Leader
Currently serving as Oakland County treasurer, Robert Wittenberg has a background in state legislation, focusing on financial services and policy reform. His commitment to responsible investing and community engagement is evident as he seeks to continue his work in this critical area of governance.
With such a diverse slate of candidates, the voters of Oakland County will have plenty to consider when heading to the polls. Each candidate brings their unique qualifications and passion for service. As election day approaches, community dialogue will be vital in shaping the future of Oakland County.
