ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – A democratic candidate for the United States Congress is making his case to voters with a platform centered on economic reform and expanded social programs.
Iron Mountain architect Kyle Blomquist held a town hall meeting tonight, outlining his agenda.
Kyle Blomquist, who has been active on the Iron Mountain City Council for over a decade, serving as Mayor Pro-tem, is campaigning for Congress with a message he says is aimed at people who felt left behind by the current political and economic system. The Iron Mountain architect, small business owner, and city leader is seeking the Democratic nomination in Michigan’s first congressional district.
“Our health care access is eroding every single year. Our housing affordability is deteriorating, also our job prospects and our overall quality of life have diminished, and I want to, I want to propose actual solutions,” declared Blomquist.
During his town hall, Blomquist described himself as a democratic socialist and represented a platform built around what he calls basic human rights. He wants a world where his children can thrive.
“I want to make sure that they have a prosperous existence, kind of like what we used to take for granted here in America, when the American government was doing more for its people with the tax dollars that they were collecting,” said Blomquist.
Those priorities include Medicare for all, affordable housing, higher wages, expanded social security benefits, universal health care, paid parental leave, and tuition-free college education. And a hot-button issue… data centers.
“Right now, we have the floodgates wide open, and I believe that we need to shut those floodgates. I support a moratorium on data center construction here in Northern Michigan,” explained Blomquist.
Many of those in attendance say that voter turnout this August is essential, regardless of party affiliation.
“But educate yourself, find out who the candidates are, find out what they stand for. Don’t be afraid to vote for someone because you think they can’t win. Give them their vote. Vote for who you believe in,” said local resident Leah Belanger.
