STATE SENATE / 7TH DISTRICT / DEMOCRAT

JASON HOSKINS

Jason Hoskins of Southfield has a BS degree in political science and a master in public administration from EMU and a law degree from University of Detroit Mercy. He is currently a member of the Michigan House of Representatives and was a member of the Southfield City Council. He is a member of the ACLU, Sierra Club and the local party organization.

Government transparency

Michigan is one of only two states where the state legislature and administration are not subject to Freedom of Information Act requests. Although Governor Whitmer has promised in 2018 to extend the FOIA to cover her office and the legislature and the senate pass legislation in 2025, the House has still left these bills in the House Government Operations Committee with no movement. Do you support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of state government?

I strongly support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover the legislative and administrative branches of the government for the state of Michigan. Reforms such as allowing for FOIA requests within our state government would bring Michigan in line with over 40 other states throughout the country that have already implemented these standards. Michiganders have enjoyed the right to submit FOIA requests to their city council, public schools, public universities, and state government agencies for years and I support extending that to the executive and legislators.

Data Center Farms

Large scale data centers have become an important issue in Michigan. Should the state be providing incentives to attractive large scale data centers? What regulations should be enacted to protect residents from possible increased electric rates and impact on water sources in the state? Lastly, there have been concerns that the state could intervene in the local approval process along the lines of what has been done on alternative energy projects in the state. Would you support the state taking more control of the local approval process?

The expansion of data centers, especially “hyperscale” facilities, has become a serious and legitimate concern for residents across Michigan and the country. Whether you face daily economic pressures, care deeply about the environment, are skeptical of promises made by large tech firms, or believe in transparency in government contracting, there is good reason to be paying close attention to this issue right now. As elected officials at the state level, we have a responsibility to listen to these concerns and respond with policies that match the seriousness they deserve. As a candidate for state Senate, I support requirements that data center projects be built with union labor, subject to local hire requirements and job quality standards that guarantee a living wage. I will also support local investments in workforce development to ensure that communities hosting these facilities share in their economic benefits. Additionally, I will support banning non-disclosure agreements between tech companies and local governments. The costs and impacts of these facilities cannot be hidden from the very communities that they affect. We must also ensure that data center developers pay their own way. Ratepayers should not face higher utility bills simply because a new data center comes to town. I support strong ratepayer protections that require data center developers, not consumers, to bear 100 percent of the infrastructure, generation, and transmission costs needed to serve their facilities. I also support strict environmental and labor standards for data center development. Developers should be required to fully disclose water usage, adhere to rigorous efficiency and wastewater standards, and avoid sites that threaten aquifers, private wells, and sensitive ecosystems. They should also be required to achieve Energy Star, LEED, or equivalent certification, and to meet fair labor standards, prevailing wages, and safe working conditions. As a state Representative who has served a district slated for significant data center growth and as a former city councilman who has seen firsthand how important it is for local communities to retain control over decisions that affect them, I have a direct stake in getting this right. I strongly support preserving local control on this issue while significantly raising the regulatory floor for new data center development statewide.

Economic incentive policy

There has been ongoing debate in both parties in Lansing about past and current administrations’ economic development policies for attracting new business to the state. What is you position on the current economic development efforts?

Last term, I had the privilege of chairing the House Economic Development and Small Business Committee, where I pursued a broader vision of what economic development in Michigan should look like. For me, economic development is not simply about offering incentives to corporations to relocate to our state. As chair, the most consistent message I heard from businesses of all sizes was that Michigan faces a significant workforce talent gap. Addressing that gap requires investing in the conditions that attract and retain talent: housing, childcare, transit, and a world-class education system. We also need to modernize our permitting processes and ensure that shovel-ready sites are available to developers and businesses looking to grow here. On incentives specifically: I believe Michigan should move away from its current incentive-heavy approach. Most states do not offer incentives at the rate Michigan does, largely because they have already built the underlying infrastructure that makes their state competitive. We should be doing the same. If we make Michigan a place where people genuinely want to live and work, we will not need to rely on financial incentives as our primary recruitment tool. That is why last term I joined my colleagues in introducing the Make It In Michigan Fund, a proposal to transform Michigan’s existing SOAR Fund from a traditional incentive vehicle into a community-based investment accelerator focused on growing people and places, not just companies, while also including proposals for expanded housing and education funding. These are the investments that will make Michigan competitive for generations, not just for the next corporate announcement.

New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

Michigan is facing major cuts to federal funds for Medicaid, thanks to the 2025 adoption of President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill. To counteract these cuts, Governor Whitmer had proposed increased taxes on tobacco and vape products and new taxes on digital advertising, which were ignored by legislators in recent budget sessions. Would you support similar tax proposals in the future? Why or why not?

I support Governor Whitmer’s revenue proposals. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act is projected to cause nearly 300,000 Michigan residents to lose Medicaid coverage beginning in 2027. This is a public health crisis that demands a serious state-level response. When the federal government cuts funding for programs that millions of Michiganders depend on, states must find creative solutions to fill the gap. While I do not support increasing the tax burden on everyday working Michiganders as a matter of general principle, the proposals Governor Whitmer has put forward are targeted and reasonable. Her Medicaid stabilization package raises revenue through increases on tobacco products, new taxes on vaping and non-tobacco nicotine products, a new tax on digital advertising, and updated tax structures on sports betting and online gaming. The proposals are predicted to collectively generate an estimated $780 million annually to offset lost federal dollars. These are not broad-based taxes on working families; they are targeted levies on industries and behaviors that carry their own public health costs. Protecting access to healthcare for our most vulnerable residents, including children, seniors, and people with disabilities is not optional. I would support similar revenue proposals in the future to provide the state a viable path to Medicaid stability.

Financial disclosure

Voters approved financial disclosure for all state office holders and candidates. Are you satisfied with the regulations developed by lawmakers or are there changes you think need to be made? Explain.

Michigan only recently passed its first-ever disclosure law, and while it was a step forward, it does not go nearly far enough. We need to expand requirements to cover more appointed officials and department heads. We should broaden gift disclosure rules. Under the current law, officials are only required to disclose gifts that lobbyists are already required to disclose under state law. They are not required to disclose gifts from other sources, and would not be required to disclose the kind of secret junkets taken by former House Speaker Lee Chatfield, who is under criminal investigation for alleged financial impropriety. We also should significantly increase fines and penalties for failing to file or filing inaccurate disclosures. A law without real consequences is not much of a law at all. Some states have independent ethics commissions with subpoena power which may help with accountability. I also believe transparency itself is a form of accountability. When the public can see what financial interests officials hold and what gifts they are receiving, voters can draw their own conclusions at the ballot box. An informed public is the most powerful check on elected officials that exists.

Top three-five issues

What are the top three-five issues you want to address if you are ultimately elected?

My top three policy priorities are economic opportunity and affordability, civil rights and equal protection, and strengthening democracy and public trust because these issues directly shape people’s daily lives and Michigan’s future. Affordability - First, I will fight for economic opportunity and affordability by addressing the rising costs of housing, healthcare, childcare, and everyday life while expanding access to good-paying jobs. I also want to expand public transit options here in Michigan. Michiganders deserve more than just getting by; they deserve real opportunities to build stable, successful lives. Protecting Civil and Human Rights - Second, I will champion civil rights and equal protection because everyone deserves dignity, safety, and fairness under the law. That means protecting LGBTQ+ rights, workers’ rights, reproductive freedom, and equal opportunity so that progress reaches every community. Strengthen Democracy - Third, I believe we must strengthen democracy and restore public trust in government. At a time when too many people feel disconnected or disillusioned, we need transparent, accountable leadership that puts people over politics. That means defending free and fair elections, passing the Michigan Voting Rights Act, increasing government transparency, reducing the influence of special interests, and ensuring government delivers real results. Democracy works best when people trust that their voices matter and that elected officials are accountable to them.

Why vote for you

Why should a primary voter select you over another candidate?

Whether it’s been as a state Representative, Southfield city councilman, or as a legislative staffer for almost 10 years, I’ve been delivering results bringing resources home – like the $25 million in appropriations I brought to my district, creating jobs – like when I created the Michigan Innovation Fund to help fund small businesses, and standing up for our rights when it mattered most – like when I banned conversion therapy in Michigan, protected IVF, helped expand the Elliott Larsen Civil Rights Act to cover the LGBTQ community and most recently introduced the Michigan Voting Rights Act in the Michigan House to help safeguard our democracy. Right now, too many people are struggling while some politicians play games. We need experienced leadership that knows how to get things done on day one. I’ve been in the room. I know how this works. I’m proven, tested, experienced and I know how to get the job done for my community.

SHADIA MARTINI

Shadia Martini of Bloomfield Township has bachelor degree in architectural engineering from Aleppo University and an MBA from U of M. She is president of Martini Construction Company and Great Estates Realty. Martini is active in local party organizations and in a number of community groups.

Government transparency

Yes, I absolutely support extending the Freedom of Information Act to cover both the legislative and executive branches of Michigan state government. Transparency and accountability are essential to building public trust in government. Citizens have a right to know how decisions are made, how public resources are used, and who is influencing public policy. Michigan should not be one of the few states that exempts major parts of its government from public records laws. Expanding FOIA is a common-sense reform that will help increase transparency, strengthen accountability, and restore confidence in our democratic institutions.

Data Center Farms

I do not believe Michigan should provide incentives to multibillion-dollar corporations to build data centers in our state. If a company chooses to locate here, it should do so because of Michigan’s workforce, infrastructure, and quality of life—not because taxpayers are subsidizing its profits. Data centers must be subject to strict regulations to protect residents from higher electric rates, excessive water consumption, noise, and environmental impacts. I support requiring a significant portion of their energy needs to come from renewable sources, ensuring that infrastructure upgrades are paid for by the operators rather than ratepayers, and establishing substantial green buffer zones around facilities to reduce noise, light pollution, and community impacts. I also strongly support local control. The state should establish clear environmental, energy, and land-use standards, but decisions about whether a specific project belongs in a community should remain with local governments and residents. Communities deserve a meaningful voice in determining their own future.

Economic incentive policy

I support economic development policies that create good-paying jobs, strengthen local economies, and provide a clear return on investment for taxpayers. However, I am skeptical of large corporate subsidy packages that provide public dollars to profitable companies without strong accountability measures. Too often taxpayers assume the risk while corporations receive the benefits. Michigan should focus on investing in the fundamentals that attract businesses naturally: excellent public schools, modern infrastructure, affordable housing, reliable energy, workforce development, and vibrant communities. I support targeted incentives when they are transparent, performance-based, tied to job creation and wage standards, and include clawback provisions if promised results are not delivered. Economic development should benefit Michigan residents and communities first, not simply maximize corporate profits.

New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

I am committed to protecting Medicaid coverage and access to healthcare for Michigan residents. If federal funding cuts create significant budget shortfalls, I would be willing to consider revenue proposals, including taxes on tobacco and vaping products, because they both raise revenue and help discourage behaviors that contribute to long-term healthcare costs. I would also be open to exploring new revenue sources, but any proposal should be carefully evaluated to ensure it is fair, effective, and does not place an undue burden on small businesses. More broadly, I believe we should ask those most able to contribute to help protect essential healthcare services rather than forcing vulnerable residents to lose coverage or access to care. The goal should be maintaining healthcare access while creating a sustainable and equitable funding structure.

Financial disclosure

I support strong financial disclosure requirements because transparency is essential to maintaining public trust in government. Voters made it clear that they want greater accountability from elected officials, and I support that goal. While the current regulations are a step in the right direction, I am open to strengthening them if gaps remain. Financial disclosures should be detailed enough to identify potential conflicts of interest, easy for the public to access, and enforced consistently. Transparency helps combat misinformation, reduces the influence of special interests, and gives voters confidence that elected officials are acting in the public interest rather than for personal gain.

Top three-five issues

My top priorities if elected are: Protecting Democracy and Voting Rights – As someone who grew up under a dictatorship, I understand how fragile democracy can be. I will fight to protect voting rights, government transparency, civil liberties, and the rule of law. Strengthening Public Education – A strong public education system is essential to Michigan’s future. I will work to improve school funding, support teachers, and ensure every child has access to a high-quality education regardless of ZIP code. Addressing the Housing Crisis – As a builder and real estate broker, I understand the complexities of housing affordability. I will support policies that increase housing supply, expand homeownership opportunities, and make housing more affordable for working families. Expanding Renewable Energy and Modern Infrastructure – Michigan must invest in clean energy, grid modernization, and sustainable infrastructure while ensuring energy remains reliable and affordable for residents. Creating Economic Opportunity – I will focus on policies that support working families, small businesses, workforce development, and good-paying jobs so that all Michiganders can share in our state’s prosperity.

Why vote for you

Primary voters should choose me because I bring a unique combination of lived experience, professional expertise, and a proven commitment to public service. I grew up under a dictatorship and understand firsthand the importance of protecting democracy, voting rights, and individual freedoms. As an immigrant, small business owner, builder, real estate broker, and former university instructor, I bring perspectives and experiences that are often missing in government. I am also a housing expert who understands one of the most pressing challenges facing Michigan families. For nearly 30 years, I have been solving complex problems, negotiating solutions, creating jobs, and building communities. I am not running to become a career politician—I am running because I believe Michigan needs leaders who understand real-world challenges and are willing to fight for public education, affordable housing, economic opportunity, renewable energy, and the protection of our democracy. Most importantly, I am running to serve the country that gave me my voice back and the community that welcomed me with open arms more than 30 years ago. Public service is my way of giving back to the nation that gave me freedom and the opportunity to build a life, raise a family, and pursue the American Dream.

RAKESH RAMAKRISHNAN

Rakesh Ramakrishnan of Birmingham holds a BS in economics and chemistry and an MBA in healthcare administration and an MD from Albany Medical College. He is an orthopaedic spine surgeon with Michigan Orthopedic Spcialists. He is active with the local Democratic club.

Government transparency

Michigan is one of only two states where the legislature and governor’s office are shielded from FOIA. Transparency should be the foundation of government and there is no defensible reason why Michigan does not conduct business this way. I fully support extending the Freedom of Information Act.

Data Center Farms

While data centers can bring jobs and investments to Michigan, incentives should come with actual conditions. While I support targeted incentives, these should be tied to job creation benchmarks, environmental standards, and community benefit agreements. Residents should never bear the cost of corporate infrastructure through higher electric rates or compromised water supplies. I am wary of state preemption. Communities must have proper input in these decisions.

Economic incentive policy

Michigan’s economic development strategy needs better accountability and transparency. I support incentive programs that are tied to verified outcomes. These investments should be subject to independent audits. Any renewals should be based on outcomes. Attracting business is important, but not at the cost of fiscal responsibility of public money.

New taxes to offset Medicaid cuts

As a physician, I see what happens when insurance coverage lapses: patient’s delay care which ultimately leads to shifting expenditures to higher cost services such as emergency rooms. Addressing government expenditures is not a simple answer, it is reasonable to evaluate taxes on tobacco and vape products. As for digital advertising tax, there are concerns about small businesses that rely on digital advertising to compete. We also have seen legal challenges in other states. Perhaps a tiered structure that would help protect small businesses could be agreed on. Cutting Medicaid is unacceptable but raising taxes is not simple and must be thoughtfully planned.

Financial disclosure

I fully support disclosure requirements. The regulations in place now are very basic and should be expanded on. The goal of government is to work for the people. It is clear in this era that this does not always happen. Laws begin with “We the people of Michigan enact…” We need the members of legislature to honor this statement and their office.

Top three-five issues

Healthcare access and affordability: as a spine surgeon I have seen patient’s choose metween medication and rent, physical therapy and groceries, and delaying surgical care because they cannot afford to miss work. Education funding equity: every child deserves a well-funded school. Government transparency and accountability: FOIA reform, campaign finance disclosure, and data-driven legislating. Economic security for working families: living wages, worker protections, and job growth

Why vote for you

I have lived the consequences of policies made in Lansing. As a physician, I have sat with patients who can’t afford their prescriptions, can’t take time off work, worry about their children’s schools. For me to treat a patient I have to understand their life. When I started to ask the difficult questions I realized the problem had to be solved from the inside. I bring medical training, evidence-based thinking, and a genuine connection to this district. Similar to my professional work, I will constantly demand better outcomes, treat every problem with the time it deserves, and put the needs of the people above my own. I am not a career politician. I am a physician, a father of three young children, and a neighbor who experiences the same pressures and concerns as the families I serve. When I worry about school funding, it’s because my kids are in these schools. When I fight for healthcare affordability, it’s because I see every day what happens when people can’t access care. Real world experience matters in Lansing. I have spent my career diagnosing complex problems, weighing evidence, and making decisions that directly affect people’s lives. I bring that same discipline and accountability to public service. I won’t learn on the job at voters’ expense: I already understand what’s at stake. District 7 deserves a representative whose life is genuinely shaped by the issues on the table, not someone who has built a career inside the political system. I am running because I believe the people of this district need a fresh voice with deep roots in this community and real skin in the game.