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Kenneth Massey

RepublicanFirst-time candidate

Scientist

Kenneth Massey is a Republican candidate for Michigan State Senate District 8 in the 2026 election. This is their first run for office.

From the candidate’s public filings

Background

Kenneth Massey earned a high school diploma from North Farmington High School, a bachelor's degree from Eastern Michigan University in 1984, and a Ph.D. from the University of Texas, Southwestern in 1989. Massey's career experience includes working as a scientist. [1]

Ph.D:
University of Texas, Southwestern, 1989
Bachelor's:
Eastern Michigan University, 1984
High school:
North Farmington High School

In their own words

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

I have a combined 35+ years of biomedical research, business, and governance experience in the academic, biotech / pharmaceutical, venture, philanthropic and local government arenas. He is the Senior Director of Venture Development and Adjunct Professor of Pharmacology at Wayne State University. Previously, he was a managing director of a ventures firm, investing in medical devices, and medical diagnostics. Ken was a scientist and director in the clinical cardiovascular group at Pfizer. At Pfizer he was responsible for scientific and operational aspects of several drug development programs.

Dr. Massey holds a Bachelor of Science from Eastern Michigan University and a Ph.D. in cardiovascular pathophysiology from the University of Texas. Dr. Massey completed his post-doctoral training at the University of Arizona and is a graduate of the Michigan Hospital Association’s Fellowship in Hospital Governance.

In addition, Massey was member of the City Council in Farmington Hills, Michigan. 2003 - 2023, during which he served two terms as Mayor. He is chair of the MichBio board, works with several philanthropic organizations, is a member of Association of University Technology Managers (AUTM). Past board president for the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce, co-founder of CARES in Farmington Hills and Farmington SAFE. He has been a BoD member since 2006 (Board Chair 2013-16) for Botsford Hospital (now Corewell Health).

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?

Economic Opportunity for All

We must help working families get ahead again.The government doesn't create prosperity—hardworking people do. This means lowering the tax burden on families and businesses, encouraging investment, and creating an environment where entrepreneurs can thrive.

We must also invest in the workforce of tomorrow. Michigan ranks far too low in reading and math proficiency. When nearly half of our children are not reading at grade level, that is not just an education problem — it is an economic problem, a workforce problem, and a future problem.Safe, Healthy, and Prosperous Communities

We must strengthen our communities. Every

citizen deserves to feel safe in their neighborhood. That starts with supporting law enforcement and all first responders that protect us.

We must also work with the legal system to ensure that violent criminals are held accountable. Safe communities attract businesses, strengthen families, and improve quality of life.

We must reverse those things that are driving away economic growth, reduce bureaucracy, reduce over regulation, and ridiculous policies.

Healthcare must also be part of our vision, fixing our broken mental health system.Protecting Liberty and Responsible Government

We must restore trust in government.

Government should live within its means just as families do.

Shifting slightly, governments must ensure we protect the rights guaranteed by our Constitution.

That includes protecting the rights of workers to pursue opportunity and earn a good living. It includes defending the constitutional rights of law-abiding citizens. This means ensuring public safety measures are implemented in ways that respect due process and individual freedoms.

Liberty and responsibility are are complementary values.

My friends, this election is not about political parties. It is about electing good candidates with vision and the desire to usher in common sense changes.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Health, safety, and welfare of citizens

Mental Health

Education improvement

Economic Development

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Farmington Hills Police Officers Association; Farmington Hills Professional Firefighters; William Dwyer; Valerie Knol; Farmington Area Republicans; Kevin Bersche; Fritz Biermiester; Dave Staudt; Jon Aldred; and more

On the 2026 ballot

Links

Compiled from the candidate’s published profile as of September 30, 2026.

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