Endorsements

"I am often asked for voting recommendations, specifically for judicial candidates, as these tend to be less known than those in more high-profile races. This fall, Livonians will vote for a new 16th District Court judge upon Kathleen McCann's retirement. City Councilman Jim Jolly is running against attorney Robin Persiconi. I endorse Robin Persiconi. Before giving my rationale, please know that it's not easy for me to oppose Jim on this. He and I served together on Council for eight years. I highly respect him as a husband, father, and community servant. He and his wife, Katie, represent so much of what makes a community like Livonia strong. However, when people ask who I endorse, they’re not asking who my friends are; they’re asking who is best for the job. Robin’s extensive trial and litigation experience applies directly to this role. While Jim also has experience in a courtroom, I see Robin getting the edge in an objective comparison of qualifications. This view is shared by others I trust within the judicial system, as seen in her many endorsements. Qualifications alone are not enough unless I’m comfortable with where a judicial candidate stands ideologically. I am not looking for views on particular issues as much as how a judge applies the law. (As Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch said, “A judge who likes every result he reaches is very likely a bad judge, reaching for results he prefers rather than those the law compels.”) Having grilled Robin in hours of detailed conversations, I believe she will hear all the facts and consider alternative perspectives before fairly and decisively making a decision according to what the law compels. On a personal note, Robin is a graduate of Stevenson High School whose brothers were friends of mine in elementary school. She, too, has a long history in our community and looks forward to serving us honorably on the court."