Profile: Willie German, Jr.

Name: Willie German, Jr.

Office you are Seeking: U.S. House of Representatives of Michigan 2nd Congressional District

Current Profession: Muskegon City Commissioner, Library/Media Technician Supervisor - Muskegon
Community College & Small Business Owner

Age: 50

Where Do you Live: Muskegon, Michigan

Marital Status and Children: Single with three Adult Children

Questionnaire:

Why did you decide to run for this office?

I am running for this office as a call to a higher purpose of behalf of constituents of Michigan’s 2nd Congressional District.

What particular skill set or experience would you bring to this office?

I possess the courage and fortitude needed to engage in difficult discussions and the make hard decisions. I approach difficult discussions with an inclusive mindset, appreciating diverse ideas, personalities and backgrounds, as this enriches the decision-making process and produces the best solutions.
As a father, sibling, mentor, citizen small business owner and city commissioner, I have made numerous sacrifices for greater, long-term benefit for my family, my career and community. I believe these skill sets to be critical in the political decision-making process. Lastly, I possess a set of core values (i.e. hard work, honesty, fairness, transparency and family) that guide my actions.

What, in your opinion, is the primary cause for the political polarization that we see in Washington and what could or should be done about it?

There seems to be an emphasis on re-election, not long-term solutions that benefit the lives on people in the 2nd Congressional District, Michigan and the country as a whole. Courage, self-sacrifice and servant leadership are attributes currently lacking in Congress, and I intend to bring these attributes to Washington.

If the deficit is a major concern, how best should we deal with it as a nation, spending cuts, tax increases or both?

Examine the country’s expenditures closely. Categorize expenditures from highest to lowest in cost and priority as it relates to American people. Share this information, along with recommendations, with the American people and utilize technology to solicit their input on how to attack the deficit. This gives American people skin in the game.

What is the biggest issue facing Michigan that you believe you could positively impact by holding the federal office that you are seeking?

By serving as U.S Representative of Michigan’s 2nd Congressional District, I believe that I can work with constituents locally, and with other solutions-driven Congressmen in Washington, to pass legislation that accelerates Michigan economic recovery, increases and diversifies Michigan’s economic activity.