Rep. Proos to seek state Senate seat
Published 10:41 am Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Rep. John Proos, R-St. Joseph, announced his run for the 21st State Senate seat in Michigan Monday morning at the Four Flags Area Chamber of Commerce. Addressing an audience that included Niles City Administrator Terry Eull, Community Development Director Juan Ganum and Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey, Proos said he would seek the seat of the currently term-limited Sen. Ron Jelinek, R-Three Oaks. "As tough as the times are," Proos said. "There are so many positive things for us to grow upon. Building upon what I've done in the house, taking that to the Senate allows me the opportunity to represent the common sense values and the common sense ideals that are southwest Michigan." If he wins the seat, Proos would represent Berrien, Cass and Van Buren counties in Lansing. (Daily Star Photo/JESSICA SIEFF)
State Rep. John Proos (R-St. Joseph) on Monday announced his candidacy for the 21st State Senate seat. Proos, joined by his wife Kristy and three children, kicked-off his campaign stopping in Niles, Dowagiac, South Haven, and St. Joseph.
“I have the energy, vision and experience needed to represent southwest Michigan in the State Senate,” said John Proos R-St. Joseph. “Michigan, now more than ever, needs thoughtful leadership to ensure that we focus our efforts on creating an environment that fosters jobs for our families. I will continue to fight for the retooling of our tax policy, educating the next generation and sustaining our local communities.”
The 21st State Senate district includes Berrien, Cass and most of Van Buren Counties. It is currently held by the term-limited, Senator Ron Jelinek (R-Three Oaks).
“I am asking for the support and vote of individuals and families in southwest Michigan this August and November,” said Proos. “Our state is at a crossroads and I believe the right bipartisan policy decisions must be made to get Michigan back on track.
Technology infrastructure, safe communities, a welcoming business environment and a world class education system are all necessary to rebuilding our state.”
Proos was first elected to the state House in 2004 after working for U.S. Rep. Fred Upton as the congressman’s deputy chief of staff and district director.
A 1988 graduate of Lake Michigan Catholic High School in St. Joseph, Proos earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from Marquette University in Wisconsin and a master’s degree in higher education administration from Michgian State University.
