People, Purpose, Principles!

Hello Friends,

I’m Matt Schlinker. I’m a husband, a father of one, a grandfather of two, a neighbor, and a friend. I’m a retired auto worker of over 40 years and a Genesee county native. I was born and raised in Michigan, and we’re raising my grandchildren here, too. They attend public schools, just like I did. I know we need to build a Michigan where every family’s kids have a chance to succeed.

I’ve held leadership positions in Genesee County for years. My commitment to service isn’t about politics: it’s about showing up for my neighbors and getting the job done. 

I’m running to build a better Michigan for my grandchildren, Vivian and Gavin, and all of Michigan’s children.

In 2024, after the death of my friend, the late Rep. Tim Sneller, I jumped into a write-in campaign to run for this seat. We came incredibly close. Now, with the time to build a full campaign, I am asking once again for your support and your vote in 2026. 

I’m running to be your State Representative to bring purpose and principles to Lansing, and to actually put the people of the 68^th District first.

I believe the role of the Representative is to be responsive to the people first. Not to corporations. Not to one party. Not to one person or President.

I believe there are no issues that can’t be solved between purposeful and principled people—even when we might disagree.

We know Michigan isn’t nearly affordable enough. We all know things cost too much. I will work to put money back in your pocket and make life in Michigan easier for all families.

We know the key to the American Dream is a good-paying job. As a former UAW member, I know what it means to fight for good jobs and fair wages personally. That’s why I will work to protect workers’ rights, fight for a livable wage, and bring real economic investment to the district.

We know Michigan’s government isn’t good enough. I will work to make government more transparent, honest, and accountable.

We know Michigan’s students aren’t just our future: they’re the present. I will work to protect our public schools, students, and teachers.

I will never give up my fight for Michigan, and I know you won’t either. So, join us, donate, knock on doors with us, and tell me what you need from your representative in Lansing.

Let’s take this principled, purposeful, people-powered movement to Lansing—together.