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Democratic victory shows change in community
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Rep. Elect Mark Corriveau (D-Northville) received congratulations from Wayne Mayor Al Haidous after his victory in November.Political pundits have their own theories about the wave of victories Democratic candidates experienced in Michigan and throughout the nation. Many point to the war in Iraq, and the declining poll numbers of President George Bush as the reason the GOP lost power. Others cite the increasing economic squeeze of higher gas prices and healthcare costs for the middle-class.
While the new State Representative for the 20th District agrees those were factors, he has a much simpler reason for victory.
“The voters are tired of the dividedness they see in Lansing and Washington,” said Rep-elect Marc Corriveau. (D-Northville) Corriveau defeated Northville Township Supervisor, Mark Abbo, in the November elections. Corriveau is the first non-Republican to represent the municipalities of Plymouth, Plymouth Township, Northville Township and Wayne in more than 37 years.
Corriveau said his victory, which helped Democrats gain control of the State House, cannot be attributed to one issue; but to the combination of voters wanting “fresh ideas and less animosity,” in government.
“When things aren’t going well, people have to make a choice,” said Corriveau, a member of the Michigan State Bar with a law practice in Northville. Corriveau said voters made the decision to elect representatives they believed would go to work with the best interest of their constituents in mind; not the best interest of their parties.
“Voters expect Republicans, Democrats and Independents to work together to solve problems,” he added.
Corriveau learned many of his lessons about voters during his failed run for state office in 2004. Despite losing, Corriveau said he gained by having a chance to speak with voters and connect with the folks who would eventually become his strongest supporters in 2006.
“My experience in 2004 taught me how much work goes into running a campaign,” said Corriveau. “It taught me how important it is to get to the people.”
Corriveau said his only focus is to validate the confidence and faith voters had in him in Election Day to represent their needs and interests in Lansing.
Corriveau said he expects the state legislature to immediately deal with the Single-Business Tax. While the proposal of for replacing the monies lost from the SBT elimination wasn’t acted upon during the lame-duck session, Corriveau applauds Gov. Jennifer Granholm for reaching over to the GOP while they are in control of both Michigan chambers.
“It’s shows bold and ambitious leadership. That’s exactly what we need in the state,” he said. Corriveau also lauded Granholm and members of the House and Senate for enacting the Michigan Promise—a program that gives eligible Michigan students $4,000 to pursue post-secondary education. He participated in an event unveiling the new scholarship program.
At press time, Corriveau has not been assigned to a House Committee. He indicated to House leadership that he would like to work on healthcare and insurance issues. Corriveau said as a business owner that has to provide insurance for the employees of his law firm, he understands the concerns small business owners have with providing health benefits.
“A major component in bringing Michigan economy back is healthcare,” said Corriveau. We have to find a way to bring down costs and provide care,” he added.
