Five gubernatorial hopefuls say some unions deter growth

I hope you are all wondering like I am why the media wasn't invited to broadcast or record this debate. But from this article, you will at least know some of where these candidates stand.


Pete Hoekstra, the Republican golden boy is siding with Andy Dillon and the unions. The same government employee unions that keep picking our pockets so they can have a better life while thumbing their noses at the 14+% of reported unemployed in this state. They still want their 3% raises along with their "YOU PAY" 90% of their health care and "YOU PAY" 50% into their pension.

Mark Hornbeck / Detroit News Lansing Bureau

Mackinac Island -- The seven candidates for governor clashed over labor unions, a second bridge to Canada, drilling in the Great Lakes and other issues during an animated debate today before a crowd of 300 at the Detroit Regional Chamber Mackinac Policy Conference.

Five of the hopefuls for state chief executive said at least some unions have been a deterrent to economic development, while Democratic Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero and U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, R-Holland, defended the labor movement, saying they can't be solely blamed for the state's troubles.

"Companies with strong unions and strong management can be successful," Hoekstra said.
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Added Bernero: "Why does sacrifice always come from middle and lower class, where is the sacrifice on Wall Street?"

Hoekstra and House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township, came out in favor of a public-private partnership for the Detroit River International Crossing while Attorney General Mike Cox and Oakland County Sheriff Mike Bouchard, both Republicans, opposed it and the other combatants expressed reservations.

"It's much better to have two bridges than one," Dillon said.

All candidates except Ann Arbor businessman Rick Snyder, a Republican, said they have accepted campaign donations from the owners of the Ambassador Bridge. Dillon said if he has, it was years ago. FULL STORY