Capitol Correspondent
MACOMB TWP – Former State Rep. Leon Drolet today announced that the Michigan Taxpayer Alliance had filed the formation paperwork for recall committees against state representative and senators. The recalls target those who might support tax increases in upcoming state budget votes.
"The filing of organizing paperwork does not mean that a recall effort against these lawmakers is certain," MTA Executive Director Leon Drolet stated. "First, a legislator would have to vote 'yes' on a tax increase."
Drolet added that paperwork would soon be filed against other lawmakers that MTA activists consider "vulnerable Democrats or possible RINO Republicans." RINO is an acronym for 'Republicans In Name Only.' Paperwork is expected to be filed against Sen. Valde Garcia (R – St. Johns) later this week.
"Using the recall feature is a radical act. It is irresponsible and sets a bad precedent," said Triangle Foundation Director of Policy Sean Kosofsky.
"There is plenty of time for voters to take out their frustrations in the next election. It is obstructionist and defeatist."
MTA claims paperwork was filed with the Secretary of State and various county clerks against the following legislators:
Sen. Gerald Van Woerkom (R-Norton Shores)
Sen. Dennis Olshove (D-Warren)
Sen. Glenn Anderson (D-Westland)
Rep. Andy Dillon (D-Redford)
Rep. Mary Valentine (D-Muskegon)
Rep. Ed Gaffney (R-Grosse Pointe Farms)
Rep. Gino Polidori (D-Dearborn)
Rep. Marc Corriveau (D-Northville)
Rep. Dick Ball (R-Laingsburg)
Sen. Anderson, Rep. Dillon and Rep. Polidori are among the stongest supporters of LBGT rights in the current state legislature.
"Quite a few more recall committees will be formed in the coming weeks. Filing against a wide array of possible tax-raisers is a tactical move," Drolet said. "Its one less thing that will have to be done after a tax increase vote. At least some of the required paperwork will already be done."
The filings could not be immediately confirmed by officials from the Secretary of State's Office or local officials.
