State Senator Jonathan Lindsey has been learning the ropes in Lansing since taking office in January. The Republican represents the new 17th District, which covers Berrien County south of Stevensville, on east into Cass and St. Joseph counties and beyond. Lindsey tells us he graduated from Yale and served in special forces before deciding to get into politics.
“It basically came down to we had moved back to Michigan after living in some other places around the country, and just thought there was an opportunity to see better government here,” Lindsey said. “I think it’s why most people get in. They see an opportunity to serve and think we can make something better.”
He grew up in Branch County and now lives in Hillsdale County. He says his top priority is economic development, and he’s found some commonality among residents across different parts of the 17th district.
“This entire district has, from one side to the other, agricultural interests that a lot of people – when you talk to the Farm Bureaus for instance – they’re going to be common interests making sure that that entire sector is able to do what they do, which is an essential part of our economy.”
Closer to the lakeshore, he says people are concerned about short-term rentals. Lindsey will be in Bridgman Friday at Small Town Grounds from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Later, he’ll be at Jim’s Smokin’ Cafe in Niles from 4:30 to 5:30. He invites everyone to come meet him.
You can listen to our full conversation with Lindsey below:
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