Candace Calloway

Candace Calloway's career experience includes working in construction.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I am a native Detroiter and lifelong public servant. I was born and raised on Detroit’s west side where I still live with my dog, Lucy. I am running to represent the 5th District, encompassing a portion of Northwest Detroit, the city of Oak Park and Royal Oak Township, because I believe that we deserve better educational outcomes, and responsible infrastructure investments that do not require spikes in affordability. After graduating from college in 2016 with a degree in Applied Health Sciences, I served as an AmeriCorps member with City Year for 2 years before continuing my education advocacy work as an Academic Interventionist with the Detroit Public Schools Community District. This work solidified my commitment to our education system and how it can best support our families. My love for the outdoors led me to The Nature Conservancy, where I worked on creating nature-based solutions for urban stormwater issues, tackling the tough challenges aging infrastructure and disinvestment can have on quality of life. I am committed to responsible development and infrastructure investment that puts our small businesses and community future at the forefront. I currently serve the City of Detroit in our General Services Department working in Construction. I believe in the power of hard work and developing our workforce to ensure everyone can contribute. I am proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Black and Brown in Green Coalition.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I work two jobs like many of my neighbors and friends. We are struggling to make ends meet. It should not be so expensive to meet basic needs in Michigan. We need legislation that focuses on not only managing rising costs, but ensuring livable wages and economic growth opportunities are afforded to all Michigan workers and families.Education is the foundation of our state's future. We need budgets that fully fund, support and protect education investment in Pre-K through 12, community college options or trades training.Sustainable and responsible infrastructure investment is key to connecting our communities and providing them with the ability to live healthy and happy lives. We should focus on improving our public transportation options alongside focused resources for our non-corporate businesses. It is not only about the roads, but where they are taking us.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

I am passionate about expanding investments to upgrade and replace aging infrastructure - removing undue cost burdens on Michigan residents, budgets that prioritize education, resources for school, community college options and alternatives to traditional four-year college, like trades training. Prioritizing industry and development that expands housing options and affordability while providing much needed economic growth in our state is another important policy issue I look forward to working on.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Mayor Marian McClellan of Oak Park

Incumbent State Representative District 5 Regina Weiss

Detroit City Councilmember in District 2