In that regard, I trust we will spend this term, not debating about parking spots and seating assignments, but instead focus on delivering for the people of Michigan.
We have the chance to advance policies that truly benefit Michigan families. From providing real tax relief to addressing the rising cost of living, to strengthening our education system, and ensuring our communities remain safe– these are issues that transcend party lines. As Speaker, Representative Hall will be bestowed with the responsibility to demonstrate leadership that ensures these priorities are addressed through cooperation and mutual respect. I trust that he will make every attempt to heed this call.
Representative Hall has an opportunity to lead this body with fairness, respect, and a deep commitment to the values we hold dear. His leadership should ensure that the House remains a place where diverse perspectives are valued, and the best ideas rise to the top for the benefit of all Michiganders.
But above all, we must remember that our work is not about us; it’s about the people who send us here. It is about working families struggling to make ends meet, the small business owner facing rising costs, and the child who deserves a better education. It is about communities who have longed for increased funding for their essential services, roads worthy of the cars we build here, and opportunities for those who seek it. Let us work, through thoughtful leadership and genuine collaboration, to ensure our actions reflect the needs and aspirations of those we represent.
It was 44 years ago that a humble peanut farmer from Georgia turned President reminded us of the unique journey we have as a democracy.
‘We know that democracy is always an unfinished creation. Each generation must renew its foundations. Each generation must rediscover the meaning of this hallowed vision in the light of its own modern challenges.’
This is our moment to rediscover the meaning of democracy in light of our own challenges.
This is a moment where our deeds must meet our dialogue. If we truly are committed to restoring trust in our institutions, building confidence in our state, and aspiring to be the best place to raise a family, it begins by believing in a better politics that puts people first.
It is in the spirit of building a better Michigan, rooted in consensus and collaboration, that I second the nomination of Representative Matt Hall as the next Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives.
Let us come together to build a politics of possibilities for all Michiganders.”
The question being on the election of a Speaker,
The roll of the House was called by the Assistant Clerk and the members voted as follows: