Randy LeVasseur
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Randy LeVasseur was a 2016 Republican candidate for District 26 of the Michigan House of Representatives.
Elections
2024
See also: Michigan House of Representatives elections, 2024
General election
Democratic primary election
Republican primary election
Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
Campaign finance
Endorsements
LeVasseur received the following endorsements.
2016
- See also: Michigan House of Representatives elections, 2016
Elections for the Michigan House of Representatives took place in 2016. The primary election was held on August 2, 2016, and the general election was held on November 8, 2016. The candidate filing deadline was April 19, 2016.
Incumbent Jim Townsend (D) did not seek re-election because of term-limits.
Jim Ellison defeated Randy LeVasseur in the Michigan House of Representatives District 26 general election.[1]
Jim Ellison ran unopposed in the Michigan House of Representatives District 26 Democratic primary.[2][3]
| Michigan House of Representatives, District 26 Democratic Primary, 2016 |
| Party |
Candidate |
| | Democratic | Jim Ellison (unopposed) |
Randy LeVasseur ran unopposed in the Michigan House of Representatives District 26 Republican primary.[2][3]
| Michigan House of Representatives, District 26 Republican Primary, 2016 |
| Party |
Candidate |
| | Republican | Randy LeVasseur (unopposed) |
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Randy LeVasseur completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by LeVasseur's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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I am a dedicated conservative candidate for the state legislature, rooted in strong family values as a husband to my wife, Joan, and father to a grown son. With a robust background as a successful businessman and attorney, I have operated my own real estate law firm for 25 years. Additionally, during the Great Recession I founded a small business that helped the owners of thousands of homes reduce their property taxes, demonstrating my commitment to improving the economic lives of our community members.
My passion for community service is evident in my volunteer efforts for causes I believe in. When veterans sought to place a proposed ordinance on the ballot in Royal Oak only to be denied by local politicians, I took action. I successfully sued the City, compelling them to put the issue on the ballot. I provided my legal services free of charge, while the City paid over $35,000 to Gretchen Whitmer's personal attorney to oppose the veterans. Additionally, I successfully defended a conservative Northville school board member against a high-powered liberal attorney’s attempt to remove him from his seat. Once again, I volunteered, providing my services free of charge.
I am committed to bringing my experience and dedication to the state legislature, advocating for economic improvements, and defending the values and rights of our community. - With a proven record as a successful businessman and a dedicated volunteer for conservative causes, I possess the skills and experience necessary to be an effective state representative. My extensive experience running my own real estate law firm for 25 years showcases my ability to lead, make strategic decisions, and deliver results. Additionally, my volunteer work successfully advocating for conservative causes demonstrates my commitment and effectiveness in fighting for our shared values. As a state representative, I will leverage this experience to prioritize the needs of our community, champion economic growth, advocate for transparency and accountability, and steadfastly defend our conservative principles.
- I am passionate about helping people live more comfortably by reducing the financial burdens they face. I am a strong advocate for lowering taxes and expenses to ensure hard-working families can make ends meet more comfortably. My dedication to this cause is demonstrated by my experience founding a small business during the Great Recession which aided the owners of thousands of homes across our state in reducing their property taxes. I am committed to addressing the financial challenges people face and improving their economic well-being.
- As a strong conservative, I will be a champion standing up for conservative principles. However, not all issues break between conservative and liberal philosophy. On some issues there is broad agreement across the political spectrum. For instance, there is widespread bipartisan support for safeguarding children from pedophiles, protecting women from abuse, preventing fraud against senior citizens, and improving the lives of disabled veterans and their widows. When more than 95% of Republicans and Democrats agree on a bill, it transcends ideological divides and becomes a matter of common sense. Unlike our current state representative, I pledge to support these bipartisan measures that prioritize the well-being and safety of our community.
I am deeply passionate about fostering an environment in Michigan where government operates with fiscal responsibility, enabling our economy to thrive and our citizens to prosper. By advocating for sound fiscal policies and prudent budget management, we can ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively. I am dedicated to implementing policies that encourage economic growth, such as reducing unnecessary regulations and taxes, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Through these efforts, I aim to create opportunities for job creation, wealth generation, and upward mobility, ultimately building a stronger and more prosperous Michigan for all its residents.
I admire Ronald Reagan for his leadership, vision, and principles. Reagan's commitment to limited government, individual liberty, and free-market economics resonated deeply with me. His ability to communicate effectively and inspire hope during challenging times is something I admire and strive to emulate. Reagan's focus on reducing taxes and deregulation fostered economic growth, demonstrating his belief in the power of the American people to drive progress. His dedication to these values, combined with his optimistic outlook and strong leadership, made him a role model. I aspire to follow his lead by promoting policies that empower individuals, encourage economic freedom, and uphold the principles of democracy and personal responsibility.
An elected official, particularly one rooted in conservative ideals, must embody integrity, dedication to public service, and selflessness. Integrity is paramount, as constituents trust their representatives to uphold moral and ethical standards, making decisions with honesty and transparency. Dedication to public service over personal gain is crucial, demonstrating a commitment to serving the greater good and advancing the interests of the community above individual ambitions. Conservative principles emphasize fiscal responsibility, limited government, and individual liberty, requiring elected officials to prioritize these values in their policymaking. Ultimately, an effective conservative leader combines these qualities to faithfully represent their constituents, uphold conservative ideals, and serve with integrity and selflessness.
My dedication to excellence permeates every aspect of my work, driving me to strive for the highest standards in serving my constituents. I am persistent in finding solutions to complex problems, navigating obstacles with resilience and creativity until a resolution is achieved. Moreover, my passion for helping others fuels my commitment to public service, ensuring that the needs and concerns of the community remain at the forefront of my efforts. With these qualities as my foundation, I am confident in my ability to effectively represent the interests of the people and enact positive change for the betterment of our state.
First, listening to constituents is paramount. State Representatives must actively engage with the community, understanding the diverse needs and concerns of its individual members, and assisting with solving problems involving government. Second, State Representatives must work with local officials toward achieving common community goals, ensuring effective governance. Finally, teamwork is essential in advancing community values and ideals. By uniting with fellow representatives, a State Representative can enact policies that reflect the collective aspirations of the electorate. In essence, a State Representative's duty lies in attentive listening, cooperative engagement, and collective action to serve and uphold the interests of the community.
As a state representative, my legacy would be defined by my unwavering commitment to transforming Michigan into a beacon of opportunity and prosperity. I envision a future where our government operates with fiscal responsibility, prioritizing efficient use of taxpayer dollars and eliminating wasteful spending. By implementing sound fiscal policies, we can create an environment conducive to economic growth and job creation, making it easier for Michigan families to thrive financially.
Furthermore, I am dedicated to crafting policies that foster a business-friendly climate, attracting entrepreneurs and investors to our state. By reducing regulatory burdens and providing incentives for innovation and entrepreneurship, we can position Michigan as a destination for new businesses and startups. This not only creates employment opportunities but also generates economic vitality that benefits all residents.
Ultimately, I aspire to change the narrative of Michigan from a state people move away from to one that encourages people to stay and attracts newcomers seeking a better quality of life. By prioritizing fiscal responsibility, fostering economic growth, and promoting a welcoming and inclusive environment, we can build a future where Michigan is known as a place of opportunity, prosperity, and thriving communities. This is the legacy I aim to leave as a state representative: a Michigan that embraces its potential and empowers its residents to achieve their dreams. My first job was working at McDonalds, first as a high school student and continuing thereafter during my first year of college. I learned the importance of hard work, discipline, and time management as I balanced work shifts with other responsibilities. I learned teamwork and communication skills by collaborating with diverse colleagues in a fast-paced environment. Handling customer service honed my problem-solving abilities and patience. Additionally, managing tasks under pressure instilled a strong work ethic and resilience. These foundational experiences equipped me with practical skills and a solid work ethic that have been instrumental throughout my career, from business ventures to public service.
I struggled as a young attorney fresh out of law school. The economy was rough at the time, and jobs for inexperienced lawyers without an established client base were hard to come by. I did what I could to get by, working odd law jobs by day, while getting up each morning before dawn to deliver newspapers on a motor route. To get an edge, I studied real estate, obtaining a real estate sales license and ultimately a broker's license as well. These early challenges in my career molded me into the resilient and determined individual I am today. They taught me valuable lessons in perseverance, problem-solving, and adaptability, shaping my character and fortifying my resolve to overcome obstacles.
The ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature balances collaboration and checks and balances. Working collaboratively is essential for solving complex problems; both branches must communicate and negotiate to create effective policies that benefit the public. Joint efforts can lead to innovative solutions and responsive governance. However, the legislature must also act as a check on executive power to preserve individual rights and prevent executive overreach. This oversight ensures that the governor's actions align with the law and public interest. A healthy dynamic involves mutual respect, transparency, and a shared commitment to democratic principles, fostering both cooperation in policy-making and accountability in governance. This balance ensures a responsive, fair, and just government.
Michigan faces significant challenges over the next decade, particularly concerning the growth of government in size and scope. An expanding government can lead to increased bureaucracy and regulatory complexity, which often burdens businesses with compliance costs and stifles innovation. This environment can discourage new economic development as entrepreneurs and investors seek more favorable conditions elsewhere. Additionally, a larger government may require higher taxes to sustain itself, reducing disposable income for residents and creating greater financial burdens for citizens. For Michigan to thrive, it must balance necessary regulation with fostering a business-friendly climate. Streamlining government operations, reducing unnecessary regulations, and maintaining a focus on efficiency can help create an environment conducive to economic growth, ultimately benefiting all citizens by creating jobs and improving the overall quality of life.
State legislators benefit from having previous experience in government, but significant life experiences and accomplishments are even more crucial. Raising a family, building a business, and navigating everyday financial struggles equip legislators with a deep understanding of the challenges faced by their constituents. These experiences foster empathy, resilience, and practical problem-solving skills, enabling them to craft policies that genuinely address public needs. While government experience provides valuable insights into legislative processes, real-world accomplishments ensure that legislators remain connected to the realities of those they serve. A blend of both backgrounds ensures well-rounded, effective governance that prioritizes the well-being of all citizens.
Building relationships with other legislators is crucial for effective governance. In Michigan, passing legislation, agreeing on a budget, or enacting needed reforms requires collaboration among at least 56 state representatives, 20 senators, and 1 governor. Strong interpersonal connections facilitate open communication, trust, and compromise, making it easier to find common ground and advance shared goals. By working together, legislators can create well-rounded, impactful solutions that reflect the collective interests of the state's residents, leading to a more responsive and effective government.
At 60 years old, with a long career as a businessman and real estate attorney, I am not running for office with the ambition of climbing a new political career ladder. My candidacy is driven by a genuine desire to serve my community and address its needs based on my extensive life and professional experiences. My focus is on making a tangible, positive impact at the state level, utilizing my skills and knowledge to create effective policies. I am dedicated to this role and not toward seeking higher office in the future. My commitment is to serve the people, not to pursue personal political advancement.
One crucial lesson from the pandemic is the importance of the state legislature in serving as a check on executive overreach. During crises, the executive may need to act swiftly, but unchecked emergency powers can lead to decisions that bypass democratic processes and infringe on individual freedoms. The state legislature must provide balanced oversight, ensuring that emergency measures are necessary, proportionate, and time-bound. This check on executive power maintains democratic accountability, prevents abuse, and ensures that all voices are heard in decision-making processes. Strengthening legislative oversight during emergencies is essential to preserving the balance of power and protecting citizens' rights.
My first bill as a state legislator would aim to reduce the state income tax to pre-Great Recession levels. The tax rate increase during the Great Recession was intended as a temporary measure to address economic challenges. However, despite legislation mandating a permanent reduction once specific financial benchmarks were met, liberal politicians have overlooked this intent, allowing the higher tax rate to persist. By reverting to the original lower tax rate, we honor the original legislative promise, alleviate the financial burden on citizens, and stimulate economic growth. This adjustment would restore fairness, support taxpayers, and reinforce trust in our government’s commitment to its promises.
Tax Policy; Regulatory Reform; Local Government and Municipal Finance; Judiciary; Economic Development and Small Business
Transparency and accountability are cornerstones of good government. Transparent financial practices ensure that government spending is open to public scrutiny, preventing misuse of funds and fostering trust among citizens. Detailed, accessible records of expenditures and budgets allow taxpayers to see how their money is being used, promoting informed civic participation. Government accountability complements transparency by holding officials responsible for their actions and decisions. Mechanisms such as audits, watchdog agencies, and public reporting ensure that leaders adhere to ethical standards and legal requirements. Together, these principles safeguard against corruption, promote efficient use of resources, and build public confidence in governmental institutions.
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Campaign finance summary
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Recent news
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See also
External links
Leadership
Speaker of the House:Matt Hall
Minority Leader:Ranjeev Puri
Representatives
Republican Party (58)
Democratic Party (52)