It can be overwhelming to review the number of items on the upcoming Election Day ballot. However, I encourage you to take the time to prepare and then vote on Tuesday, November 6.
The future of our nation, Michigan and Wayne County rests with you and other voters. Do not give up your right to vote!
It wasn't too long ago that people of color and women fought for the right to vote here in the United States. Today, it's taken for granted. Tuesday, November 6 is a monumental General Election. You have the right to choose our next leaders, decide on constitutional and local charter measures, and share your voice on other local issues.
A two-page, double-sided ballot for Wayne County voters exists because there are a number of pivotal proposals and elected offices to fill.
The ballot contains initiatives regarding the Michigan Constitution that address our rights as citizens, such as the right to collectively bargain. There are also a few questions regarding the Wayne County Charter that have to do with improving transparency. Further, there are questions on important issues in communities across Wayne County.
Certainly the most important item on the ballot is to ensure that our nation keeps moving forward by re-electing President Barack Obama.
In the past four years our nation has moved forward. Do you recall what our country faced in 2008? Economic calamity, two wars and the near collapse of the auto industry, which we know all too well here in Michigan.
President Obama moved our nation forward, repaired international relationships, saved the auto industry, which is now experiencing record vehicle sales and profits while they hire more workers, and ended the conflict in Iraq.
Now is not the time to turn back. Please don't do your family and our community a disservice by making excuses not to vote. Share your voice on Tuesday, November 6.
I encourage you to become familiar with your ballot by reviewing it online and deeply considering each candidate and issue.
Cities, such as Detroit, have early voting this week. Check with your city or township office to see if they have early voting.
I respectfully ask you to join me and other law enforcement leaders in Michigan by voting yes on Proposal 2. Collective bargaining gives workers a voice. It allows public sector employees to get the equipment and training necessary to carry out their duties.
I also seek your support in re-electing me as your Wayne County Sheriff.
I have a broad track record of law enforcement leadership. While serving as the Detroit Police Chief, I drafted and implemented a crime reduction plan which led to what we determined to be an unprecedented 30 percent reduction in violent crime in the City of Detroit during my three-year tenure. Since 2009 I have served as your Wayne County Sheriff, leading the state's second largest public safety agency amidst an ever-decreasing budget.
Remember, your voice is important to the future of America, Michigan and Wayne County. Vote Tuesday, November 6 (or participate in early voting, where available).