Viau suspends campaign

GLADSTONE — Steven Viau, former Gladstone City Commissioner and Delta County Commissioner, announced on Friday that he would no longer be seeking election to Michigan’s House of Representatives for the 108th District. Viau’s public statement cited "personal and family health responsibilities" that “have made it impossible for me to devote the time and energy necessary to conduct the active campaign that the people of this district deserve.” He said that he has faith in the other candidates and trusts the constituents to select the individual best-suited to represent the district in Lansing.

The race to represent the 108th district remains a crowded one, particularly on the Republican ticket. Now, instead of having six candidates to choose from in the primary, GOP voters will have five remaining options -- though Viau's name will still appear on the ballot because of election deadlines.

Michigan's 108th House District encompasses all of Delta, Luce, Menominee, and Schoolcraft Counties as well as parts of Chippewa and Mackinac counties. The person elected to represent their interests is one of 110 to serve in the Michigan House of Representatives, with each district being home to approximately 77,000 to 91,000 residents.

Currently, the 108th is served by Dave Prestin, Republican from Cedar River. His current term expires on Jan. 1, leaving the seat available as Prestin pursues a position in the Senate instead.

Republicans seeking election to the represent the 108th include Casey Hoffman, Menominee mayor; Larry Johnson, Menominee County Commissioner; Kurt Perron, who has a background in law enforcement; Chris Reynolds, an educator at Mid Peninsula School; and Daryl Schroeder, Mackinac County Commissioner and Engadine school board president.

Viau entered the race as a Republican as well. The Republican Parties of Menominee and Delta Counties organized a candidate forum in Gladstone in late June; all except Perron attended to share their positions with the public. The Daily Press article on the event was published on July 8.

The only Democrat running for the 108th House District is Rachel Keys, a Navy veteran and Native American.

As Viau exited the primary, he said that he hopes people around the community will continue to say hello and chat when they see him.

"When I chose to run, it was because I believed my years of listening to people, working with families, serving my community, and asking difficult questions could help make a positive difference," he wrote. "My goal was never about holding a title. It has always been about helping others, bringing people together and leaving our communities a little better than we found them. ... Although I am stepping back from this campaign, I am not stepping away from the people or the communities I care about. My belief in listening, showing respect, and working together to find practical solutions has not changed. Those values will continue to guide me, whether I hold elected office or not."

Viau stated that as his focus from this point would primarily be on his family, residents of the district deserved a representative who would have more time available for the responsibilities of the office.

He wished the remaining candidates well, adding: “I have had the opportunity to learn about several of them, and I sincerely believe they care about our district and want to serve for the right reasons. While we may not agree on every issue, I believe the people of the 108th District have capable choices, and I wish each candidate success as they continue sharing their vision with the voters.

"To everyone who signed my petitions, encouraged me, opened your doors, shared your concerns, or simply wished me well, thank you. Your kindness, honesty, and willingness to talk with me reminded me that our communities are filled with good people who care deeply about the future of the Upper Peninsula."

Michigan’s primary election is Aug. 4.