One man says he is running for state House to protect the University.
University Engineering Prof. David Felbeck, a Republican, is currently making a bid for incumbent state Democrat Rep. Mary Schroer's House seat.
"I unequivocally support the University of Michigan," Felbeck said. "I have experience. I have maturity."
Felbeck said that if he is elected he will ensure the University's interests are protected in Lansing. He said a big part of that protection means continuing the election of the University Board of Regents and making sure the state does not move to a system in which the governor would appoint the board.
Economic issues are also a key concern, Felbeck said. He said he will consistently work to reduce the size of state government. Such a reduction will free up money to "stimulate the economy and fund education," Felbeck said.
He is against any government intrusion into "private choices," Felbeck said. "Government should not get involved in issues like abortion and sexual preferences," he said.
Felbeck said he can also relate personally to problems facing small business owners because he has operated a small high-tech business of his own for several years.
He also supports reducing taxes, protecting the environment, and rebuilding the infrastructure of roads, bridges and municipal water systems.
His work experience will be a tremendous asset in Lansing, Felbeck said. "I've worked for a living," he said. "I have a tremendous depth of experience in education."
Voters should know he is a smart man with the ability to do the job, Felbeck said. "People look for representatives who are reasonably intelligent, reasonably rational and reasonably honest. I have all that."
Felbeck said he has one definite advantage over his opponent - he's not backed by any special interest money. "I will go to Lansing unencumbered by debts to special interests," he said. "I have not taken a penny of special interest money and I will not."