Addressing a room full of supporters in Grand Rapids, Mich., March 10, Trevor Thomas, former communications director for the Servicemembers Legal Defense Network ( SLDN ) and former Human Rights Campaign deputy director of communications, officially kicked off his campaign for Michigan's 3rd District Congressional seat at The Gallery at Bar Divani.
Thomas, an openly gay candidate, is hoping to oust the current seat holder, Republican U.S. Rep. Justin Amash, in November. First, he must win the primary against Democratic challenger Steve Pestka.
"I believe strongly that what he [ Amash ] brought to the table I can match ... the Democratic Caucus at the federal level is much different than the GOP Caucus. The GOP Caucus is significantly younger. There are not enough young people taking chances, taking great risks. So I decided to put my name out there and I was told at the beginning that we had a one-in-20 shot, now we are within reach. That thrills me. We are in the margin of error."
Just days before making his official announcement, Thomas received endorsements from former Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm and former Lt. Gov. John Cherry.
Thomas worked on Granholm's successful 2006 re-election campaign.
Former Kent County Republican Party Chair Bob Eleveld, who was also chair of the 2000 Michigan Presidential Campaign for John McCain, introduced Thomas.
Thomas shares many of the values of former President and Grand Rapids native Gerald R. Ford, and is counting on supporters like Eleveld, also a Ford supporter, to help him win the traditionally red area. The primary is Aug. 7.
Thomas will hold a Chicago event at Black Rock Pub and Kitchen, 3614 N. Damen Ave., Thursday, March 22, 7-9 p.m. Contribution levels start at $25. Email TrevorThomas2012@gmail.com or see www.TrevorForCongress.com .
