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Piotrowski Launches Campaign for Michigan House Seat

SAGINAW TOWNSHIP, MI - February 13th, 2026 - Republican Mark Piotrowski formally kicked off his campaign today for the Michigan House District 97 seat, a pivotal race expected to draw significant attention in the upcoming election cycle. The opening of Piotrowski's campaign follows the recent announcement of incumbent Joel Ferguson's retirement, leaving the district - encompassing portions of Saginaw and Bay counties - open for competition.

Piotrowski, a well-known figure in the local business community and a long-time advocate for civic engagement, is positioning himself as a staunch conservative candidate focused on revitalizing the local economy and upholding traditional values. His launch event, held earlier today at the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, drew a crowd of local supporters and business leaders eager to hear his vision for the district.

"This isn't about simply filling a seat; it's about restoring a commitment to the principles that have made Michigan strong," Piotrowski declared to attendees. "I'm running to be a voice for hardworking families, small business owners, and anyone who believes in a brighter future for our community."

Piotrowski's platform hinges on three core tenets: economic growth, limited government, and individual responsibility. Expanding on these principles, he outlined a detailed plan to stimulate economic activity through strategic tax cuts, targeting both businesses and individuals. He argues that reducing the tax burden will incentivize investment, job creation, and ultimately, a more prosperous district. He specifically mentioned exploring avenues for simplifying the state's convoluted tax code, which he believes hinders growth.

Beyond tax reform, Piotrowski is advocating for a significant overhaul of state regulations, which he views as excessive and burdensome for businesses. He proposes a comprehensive review of existing regulations, aiming to eliminate unnecessary red tape and streamline the process for businesses looking to operate and expand within the district. He's suggested a 'one-in, two-out' policy, requiring the removal of two existing regulations for every new one introduced.

Infrastructure improvements are also central to Piotrowski's platform. He highlighted the urgent need to address aging roads, bridges, and water systems throughout Saginaw and Bay counties. While acknowledging the financial challenges, he emphasized the importance of prioritizing infrastructure projects that will create jobs, improve transportation, and attract further investment. He alluded to exploring public-private partnerships as a potential funding mechanism.

Education remains a key area of focus. Piotrowski is a strong proponent of empowering parents and increasing school choice options. He believes that parents should have the right to choose the best educational environment for their children, whether it's a traditional public school, a charter school, or a private school. He intends to champion legislation that expands access to school choice programs and provides funding for initiatives that support parental involvement in education.

The race for House District 97 is widely considered a bellwether for the state legislature. Political analysts point to the district's demographic makeup - a mix of urban, suburban, and rural communities - as representative of broader trends across Michigan. Therefore, the outcome of this election could significantly impact the balance of power in Lansing.

While Piotrowski appears to have a strong base of support within the Republican party, he faces an uncertain path to victory. The Democratic party has yet to announce a challenger, but sources suggest they are actively recruiting a candidate who can appeal to the district's diverse electorate. The eventual Democratic nominee is expected to focus on issues such as affordable healthcare, environmental protection, and support for labor unions - areas where they may find traction with voters.

Piotrowski's deep roots in the Saginaw community are expected to be a significant asset in the campaign. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating his commitment to local businesses. He is also actively involved in several local charities, volunteering his time and resources to support community initiatives. This history of civic engagement is likely to be a key theme in his campaign messaging.

The election is scheduled for November 2026 and promises to be a closely contested battle. With a clear vision and a strong commitment to conservative principles, Mark Piotrowski is hoping to energize voters and secure the Republican nomination, ultimately aiming to represent the people of House District 97 in Lansing.


Read the Full MLive Article at:
[ https://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw-bay-city/2026/02/republican-mark-piotrowski-seeks-michigan-house-district-97-seat.html ]