Matt Schlinker

Matt Schlinker earned a high school diploma from Flint Northern High School. His career experience includes working as a quality engineer.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Matt Schlinker is a husband, a father, a grandfather, and a Genesee County native. As a retired auto worker, a fighter for the underrepresented, and an advocate for the voiceless, Matt Schlinker knows hard work and public service. Matt is running to take the people’s principles to Lansing.

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?

Michigan isn’t nearly affordable enough. I will work to put money back in your pocket.Michigan’s students aren’t just our future: they’re the present. I will work to protect our public schools, students, and teachers.We know Michigan’s government isn’t good enough. I will work to make government more honest and transparent.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Supporting good-paying union jobs, which provide benefits and a living wage by protecting collective bargaining rights.

Supporting well-funded public schools and expanding career and vocational training, to give every student the highest-quality education possible and to prepare students for their futures in college and the workforce.

Making Michigan's government more transparent by supporting campaign finance reform and instituting FOIA transparency for Michigan's State Government to hold public servants accountable.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

The late U.S. Representative Dale Kildee was a dear friend, a respectable public servant, and one who put the needs and interests of his constituents first.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

Honesty. Integrity. Accessibility.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

To participate in the decision-making process by representing the interests and values of the people I serve.

What legacy would you like to leave?

To have been a good husband, father, and grandfather.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Making Michigan affordable to be able to attract and keep the next generation of leaders in Michigan.

Keeping Michigan safe and protecting our citizens' fundamental rights.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, I do. I believe there are no issues that can’t be solved through compromise between purposeful and principled people—even when we might disagree.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan (Sexual and Reproductive Health Champion)

Matt Schlinker did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2024 Candidate Connection survey.