More Than 50
Republicans Say Pat Miles Will Represent Them Best in Congress
September 24, 2010
GRAND RAPIDS – Republican Party and community leaders endorsed Pat Miles for Congress today, citing his moderate views, his ability to work with others, the strength of his character, as well as his focus on solving problems and creating jobs in West Michigan.
In contrast, Miles' opponent, Tea Party-backed candidate Justin Amash, has voted against legislation backed unanimously by every Republican State House member on more than 59 different occasions.
Former Kent County Republican Party Chairman Bill Farr said, "I seriously question that Justin Amash is a Republican, based upon his voting record and public statements. His views are so extreme, I think he is even to the right of the Tea Party movement. Just because someone says he is a Republican is not enough to earn my vote. I want someone who is in the mainstream and for me that person is Pat Miles. I will vote for him this fall because I know he is a moderate whose views are in line with those of our district."
Keary Sawyer said, “I am proud to support Pat Miles for Congress. Pat has distinguished himself through his commitment to improving our community. I know he will put solving problems above rigid ideology. His reasonable, thoughtful approach will be a great asset to West Michigan in Congress.”
"I'm pleased and grateful to receive the endorsement of so many community leaders,” said Pat Miles. "West Michiganders want someone in Congress who will find practical solutions and help create jobs in West Michigan. Republicans, Democrats, and Independents alike understand we need a congressman who will focus on helping people and getting results, not someone who has proven to be an obstructionist.”
Among the list of those supporting Pat Miles are three former Kent County Republican Party Chairmen Bob Eleveld, Bill Farr, and Elliot Serafin, daughters of current Congressman Vern Ehlers Marla Ehlers and Heidi Ehlers Rienstra, and Keary Sawyer, the son of former 3rd District Republican Congressman Hal Sawyer.
In addition, Miles received the endorsements of former and current elected officials such as Republican former State Representative Mike Pumford; former Mayor of East Grand Rapids Nyal Deems; John Logie, the three term Grand Rapids Mayor who endorsed Steve Heacock in the 3rd District Republican primary this year; and Caledonia Township Board Member Greg Zoller. Other prominent community leaders endorsing Miles include Susan Allen, Superintendent of Rockford Public Schools Michael Shibler, Meg Goebel, and John Jackoboice.
Republican Quotes on Pat Miles
“Party labels are not as important as character in choosing our next representative in Congress to succeed Vern Ehlers. For that reason, I am proud to support Pat Miles, who has consistently shown character within our community. He will make an excellent Congressman.”
-Marla Ehlers, daughter of Congressman Vern Ehlers
“Pat Miles is the candidate who will continue the 3rd District’s long history of being represented by a moderate voice in Congress. He will serve in the tradition of the collaborative, proactive leaders who have worked so faithfully on our behalf in Congress.”
-Heidi Ehlers Rienstra, daughter of Congressman Vern Ehlers
"I seriously question that Justin Amash is a Republican, based upon his voting record and public statements. His views are so extreme, I think he is even to the right of the Tea Party movement. Just because someone says he is a Republican is not enough to earn my vote. I want someone who is in the mainstream and for me that person is Pat Miles. I will vote for him this fall because I know he is a moderate whose views are in line with those of our district."
-Bill Farr, former Kent County Republican Party Chair
“We need somebody in Congress who will work to address the problems the country is facing. After examining the two candidates, I have come to the conclusion that the best person to do that is Pat Miles. He has a background of working to solve problems, and I know he will take that constructive philosophy to Congress, where it is most desperately needed.”
-Bob Eleveld, former Kent County Republican Party Chair
“I am proud to support Pat Miles for Congress. Pat has distinguished himself through his commitment to improving our community. I know he will put solving problems above rigid ideology. His reasonable, thoughtful approach will be a great asset to West Michigan in Congress.”
-Keary Sawyer, son of former 3rd District Congressman Hal Sawyer
“Pat Miles has the maturity and judgment we need in our next representative to get West Michigan working again. His experience as a small business lawyer creating win-win-solutions and helping our local economy grow is exactly what we need in Washington to create jobs for West Michigan families.”
-Nyal Deems, former Mayor of East Grand Rapids
“Pat Miles has a record of working within our community to better it. He will work to fix our economy, improve our education system, and encourage fiscal responsibility.”
-John Jackoboice
“Pat Miles’ work in our community has been exemplary. I am proud to support his campaign for Congress. He is exactly the kind of Congressman we need.”
-Susan Allen