We've got a guy in Kalamazoo! Vermillion emigré Jon Hoadley is throwing his hat in the ring for the Michigan House of Representatives. He's running as a Democrat in the heavily Democratic 60th District, which includes the city of Kalamazoo and some neighbors.
Hoadley's made his name in Michigan as an effective community organizer. Hoadley's important work includes campaigning for Unity Michigan, which has won local ordinances in Kalamazoo and elsewhere to protect the basic civil rights of LGBT citizens.
To pay the bills, Hoadley runs political consulting outfit Badlands Strategies, where he also puts to good use the talents of our own State Senator Angie Buhl O'Donnell (D-15/Sioux Falls).
Of course, the surest proof that Hoadley will succeed is his status as a distinguished alumnus of the august Vermillion High School debate team, where he won multiple trophies as a debater and extemporaneous speaker.
Hoadley will be a good rep. After you've donated to your local Democratic candidates, send Hoadley some ActBlue love and help him fight for justice and fairness in Michigan!
A very important fact about Jon that was overlooked. He came back to South Dakota in 2006 to serve as campaign director for South Dakotans Against Discrimination -- the political action committee that opposed Amendment C (the anti-gay marriage amendment). Under Jon's leadership, South Dakota was the only state that almost defected a marriage amendment (by 4 percentage points). Jon will be a great asset in the legislature.
Very good reminder, Lawrence! Our 2006 near-miss is unique—Hoadley's skills had much to do with that!
Thanks, Lawrence for passing this on. Hope you are well.