Brandon Strong, a longtime school administrator at Barry County Christian Schools, announced on Tuesday his candidacy for the Republican nomination in Michigan’s 78th House District. Strong is running to succeed current State House Representative, Gina Johnsen’s seat. The district represents portions of Eaton, Barry, Kent, and Ionia counties.
A longstanding resident of the 78th District, Strong expressed his excitement to enter the race and represent his community, saying, “Michigan families deserve leaders who will listen, lead with integrity, and put the next generation first.”
Strong further added that he is committed to a Michigan where “faith, family, and freedom are respected, and where opportunity is real for every child, in every community.”
Strong, a former Chairman of the Barry County Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Alliance, known for his continued support of workforce development efforts, says he will take that same commitment to Lansing. When asked to comment on his legislative priorities, Strong said “I am focused on legislation that will cut red tape and bring affordable solutions back to the constituents of the 78th District.”
“I will fight to protect all constitutional rights, support parents, grow local jobs, and hold Lansing accountable to the people it serves. The time has come for new representation, and I will work closely with Speaker Matt Hall and House Republicans to do just that,” he said. Strong has been endorsed by State Representative Jennifer Wortz who said “I am pleased to support and endorse Brandon for the 78th district house seat. With Brandon’s background in education, small business, and raising a family in Michigan, he knows the challenges facing Michigan families. He has a heart for serving his community, and we need his common-sense voice and leadership in Lansing.” In addition to Wortz’s endorsement, Brandon is also endorsed by long-time Barry County Businessman and County Commissioner, Bob Teunessen, Bob said “Brandon and I have gotten to know each other very well over the past several years, he’s deeply committed to our community, he believes strongly in education, has an incredible work ethic, and understands common sense solutions for Michigan. Brandon will be an exceptional representative for the 78th District in Lansing.”
Strong earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Trinity Bible College and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from South Dakota State University. He lives in Hastings with his wife Samantha, and have five children together, with their second-oldest graduating high school this spring. In addition, he currently serves as an elected precinct delegate on the Barry County Republican Party Executive Committee. Prior, Strong worked as a high school principal in North Dakota, a special education teacher in Wyoming, a college instructor and head college baseball coach.
