Steve Marino: A Champion of Promises Kept in Michigan Politics

In the world of politics, where promises often seem as ephemeral as campaign banners in the wind, Steve Marino, a former Michigan State Representative, stands out as a testament to integrity and dedication. In an era where politicians’ words can sometimes ring hollow, Marino’s commitment to his constituents and his unwavering resolve to fulfill his campaign pledges have left an enduring legacy.

The path into politics is diverse and multifaceted, with individuals arriving from various backgrounds, whether through volunteerism, rigorous academic study of political science and public policy, or grassroots involvement in local campaigns. While many successful politicians can boast of advanced degrees and military service, there are no guarantees that a politician will deliver on their campaign promises. Sometimes, it is young individuals with bold ideas and unwavering convictions who manage to translate their aspirations into meaningful change for their constituents.

Steve Marino’s journey into the world of politics is a compelling example of such dedication. His early interest in and affinity for politics paved the way for his career in public service. Marino’s journey began when he served as the Senior Class President in high school, followed by his role as the Student Body President at Michigan State University. These formative experiences laid the foundation for a career that would eventually see him elected as a Michigan State Representative. Along the way, Marino opened his own business and became a respected lobbyist, contributing to his expertise in navigating the intricacies of the political landscape.

Marino’s impressive educational background further equipped him for his political journey. Armed with three bachelor’s degrees in Economics, Public Policy and Public Administration, and Political Theory and Constitutional Democracy, he possessed a solid knowledge base on how the political system operates. His resume included serving on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners before his successful run for the Michigan House.

After completing the maximum allowable three terms in the Michigan House, Steve Marino is now pursuing a Master’s in Public Policy and Administration at Northwestern University, further honing his skills and expertise in the field. During his time in office, Marino ran as a Republican with a resolute emphasis on fostering small businesses and driving overall economic growth, making him a political figure to watch closely. But the key question remains: how did he fare in keeping his promises to the people of Michigan?

Campaign promises often seem grand and far-reaching, yet they can easily fade into the background once candidates assume office. Priorities shift, alliances are forged, and the challenges of governance take center stage. To assess Steve Marino’s commitment to the issues he ran on, let’s revisit some of his original goals from his 2016 campaign.

Jobs were priority #1

In his 2016 campaign, Marino declared, “For Michigan to continue its economic comeback, we must pursue solutions that make our state a magnet for jobs so people can afford to live, work, and raise a family here. We must reject the failed policies of the past that once killed jobs and drove Michigan’s economy into the ground.”

Marino’s track record in the Michigan House speaks volumes. He consistently voted in favor of policies that supported small businesses and economic growth, earning a remarkable 100% voting record in this regard. His dedication was not just symbolic; it translated into tangible results. In recognition of his efforts, Marino received The Small Business Association of Michigan’s (SBAM) Legislator of the Year award in 2021 and was honored as a Legislative Economic Development Champion by the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA). Marino also authored more than 20 Public Acts aimed at bolstering economic development incentives, supporting small businesses, and promoting economic diversification. His collaboration with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) led to record-breaking investments from 2020 to 2022. Moreover, his work on a small business acceleration package generated state grants and propelled entrepreneurial growth.

Taxes

Marino’s commitment to keeping taxes low for workers, job creators, and families was steadfast. In 2022, he voted to reduce specific tax rates and expand credits and exemptions, resulting in a substantial $2.5 billion reduction in state taxes. In 2021, Marino also voted to establish multiple Property Tax Exemptions and, in 2017, to create Tax Incentives for Job Creation by businesses, demonstrating his dedication to fiscal responsibility.

Education

Recognizing the critical role of education in shaping Michigan’s future, Marino declared in his 2016 campaign, “A bright future with a good job begins with a great education. The federal government shouldn’t be dictating standards for our neighborhood schools; parents know what’s best for their children and we need to ensure more decisions are made at the local level.”

True to his words, Marino sponsored a bill in 2021 that mandated students to complete a Personal Finance Course before graduation, emphasizing the importance of financial literacy. He consistently advocated for vocational training and dual enrollment, recognizing the diverse educational needs of Michigan’s youth. Additionally, Marino voted to increase funding for public schools and to raise pay for student teachers, underscoring his commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for the state’s future generations.

Protecting Freedom and Defending Values

In his 2016 campaign, Marino emphasized the need to protect freedom and defend shared values. He said, “Too many politicians want to dismantle the Constitution and erode our rights. Freedom is worth fighting for, and as your state representative, Steve will take an oath to defend our shared values.”

When the COVID-19 pandemic led to unprecedented infringements on personal liberties, Marino stood firm in his commitment to safeguarding individual rights. He consistently voted to return power to the people, opposing governmental mandates such as vaccine passports and supporting the repeal of the Governor’s Emergency Powers Act of 1945. Additionally, he voted for a bill that authorized immunity for businesses from COVID-19 exposure lawsuits.

At just 34 years old, Steve Marino has the potential for a long and impactful career in politics. His consistency, straightforward approach to crucial issues, and unwavering commitment to his campaign promises set him apart as a politician of integrity and dedication. As he continues to pursue his Master’s in Public Policy and Administration at Northwestern University, his journey is one to watch closely. Steve Marino is living proof that in politics, as in life, keeping one’s word is a legacy worth leaving behind.