Mai Xiong​, Warren Area State Representative: Candidate Profile

WARREN, MI — Mai Xiong is a Democrat running for State Representative in House District 13, which includes parts of Warren and Detroit.

The primary election is Jan. 30, 2024, and the special election is April 16, 2024.

The seat became vacant after Democrat Lori Stone was elected as the mayor of Warren in last November's elections.

Here's how Mai Xiong answered Patch's candidate profile:

Name

Mai Xiong

Age

39

Town/City of Residence

Warren

Office Sought

State Representative

Party Affiliation (if a partisan race)

Democrat

Does anyone in your family work in politics or government? This includes any relatives who work in the government you're running for

No

Education

College for Creative Studies, BFA; Harvard Kennedy School, Senior Executives in State and Local Government; Michigan State University, Michigan Political Leadership Program

Occupation

Small Business Owner, Mai&Co (self-employed, 5 years)

Campaign Website

www.voteformai.com

Previous or Current Elected or Appointed Office

Macomb County Commissioner (elected, 3 years)

The most pressing issues facing our (board, district, etc.) are _______, and this is what I intend to do about them.

I know that Michigan is a place of promise for many seeking to achieve the American Dream, and I’ve been grateful to have had such opportunities. We must continue to do more to ensure that all families have a fair chance to get ahead.

As a parent now, I know the challenges that working families face. I am committed to building on the progress that has been made in our state. I will work to help families to be financially successful, invest in our teachers and students, put money back into the pockets of our seniors, and bring resources back home to our district.

I believe that everyone should have a voice at the table. I will always put the needs of the 13th District’s Warren and Detroit residents first when making decisions about our shared future.

What are the critical differences between you and the other candidates seeking this post?

As a parent to four young children and a small business owner, I know firsthand the challenges families continue to face. As a county commissioner, I already have working relationships with many of our current state legislators, which will help me be successful in getting things done for our constituents. I look forward to winning the special election and maintaining Democrats' majority in the House. I will continue to champion Democratic values, lowering prescription drug costs for seniors, protect women's right to choose, support common sense gun safety laws, invest in our teachers and classrooms, and be an ally to our working families.

If you are a challenger, in what way has the current board or officeholder failed the community (or district or constituency)?

n/a

Describe the other issues that define your campaign platform

My campaign is founded on the principles of inclusivity and unity. I am dedicated to bringing people together. In a time where unity is paramount, my focus is on creating an inclusive environment that welcomes diverse perspectives and encourages collaboration. By championing these values, my campaign aims to build bridges and forge connections, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected. Together, we can create a stronger, more united community that thrives on diversity and shared goals.

What accomplishments in your past would you cite as evidence you can handle this job?

As a County Commissioner, I have prioritized bipartisanship, equitable allocation of local, county, state, and federal tax dollars, fought to keep public transportation running for seniors, veterans and workers, and championed community services that help families who need it the most. I will continue to fight for our community and ensure we have a voice at the table.

Why should voters trust you?

I understand that trust is earned and must be continuously nurtured. Through consistent communication, transparency, and a commitment to responsive representation, I aim to cultivate an enduring trust that reflects my ongoing dedication to the community's needs and aspirations. I have a proven track record of listening to constituents, collaborating across party lines, and delivering tangible results. My commitment to transparent and responsive representation ensures that the concerns and aspirations of the community guide my decisions. By fostering collaboration and focusing on practical outcomes, I've consistently demonstrated dedication to the well-being and progress of our district.

If you win this position, what accomplishment would make your term in office as a success?

My success for this term will include being committed to service, responsiveness and accountability. I will be accessible, transparent, and actively involve the community in the decision-making processes. I will prioritize the concerns and needs of residents through actively listening, engaging in open dialogues, and addressing their concerns. I will work collaboratively to secure resources, funding, investments and improvement to the district and ensure its growth and well-being.

What are your views on fiscal policy, government spending and the handling of taxpayer dollars in the office you are seeking?

I am committed to responsible fiscal policy, advocating for transparent government spending, and ensuring taxpayer dollars are used efficiently. My approach involves prioritizing essential services, eliminating wasteful spending, and seeking innovative solutions to maximize the impact of public funds. I believe in accountability, regularly evaluating budget allocations to align with community needs while avoiding unnecessary financial burdens on taxpayers. My goal is to foster economic growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility to build a sustainable and prosperous future for our district.

What are your thoughts on the crime rate in your community, and what more can be done to combat crime — especially violent crime — in town?

Investing in programs that address root causes of crime, such as education and mental health support, is crucial. I will advocate for community policing initiatives that build trust between law enforcement and residents. By fostering positive relationships, we can empower communities to be active partners in crime prevention. Collaboration between law enforcement, local leaders, and community organizations is key to implementing effective strategies that enhance public safety and create a secure environment for all residents.

What is your view of the city's/village's approach to commercial and residential development?

Recognizing the uniqueness of each community, I believe in local control for commercial and residential development. Decentralized decision-making, in collaboration with local leaders, allows for tailored solutions that consider the distinct needs and character of each city/village. Emphasizing community involvement ensures development aligns with residents' preferences, fostering sustainable growth and preserving the identity of each neighborhood. However, I also believe that uniformed state regulations and codes can reduce risks and ensure safety for homeowners, tenants, agents/realtors, and developers. By striking a balance between local autonomy and statewide standards, we can create a development framework that is both responsive to community needs and upholds essential safety measures for all stakeholders.

When it comes to development, what are some key areas for improvement or additions you feel are most wanted by residents? What will need to be done to make this happen?

I will continue to listen and learn from the residents and to be responsive to their needs. I believe that mobility and public transit are important for residents to be able to get from work, to school, and home. We must invest in infrastructure development to meet this need. Having improved green spaces, affordable housing, and sustainable development are also very important to improving the quality of life for our residents. Collaboration with local planners and community members is vital to the success of these initiatives. In addition, establishing incentive programs for eco-friendly developments and affordable housing projects can stimulate positive growth. By prioritizing transparent communication, engaging in town hall discussions, and leveraging community input, we can ensure that development aligns with residents' needs, while fostering a thriving and inclusive environment for all.

Is there any reason you would not serve your full term of office, other than those of health or family?

The election is to fill a partial term ending on January 1, 2025. If elected, I will commit to serving the remainder of the term.

The best advice ever shared with me was:

Never stop learning; each challenge is an opportunity to grow.

What else would you like voters to know about yourself and your positions?

Born in a refugee camp in Thailand, Mai Xiong was 3 years old when she arrived in the U.S. with her family in 1987. Her parents, of Hmong descent, were part of an ethnic group in northern Laos that aided America during the Vietnam War. Her parents eventually fled to avoid persecution.

Nearly ten years after arriving, Xiong received her U.S. citizenship in 1997. Xiong attended Macomb Community College and went on to earn her Bachelor of Fine Arts from the College for Creative Studies. Xiong is also a graduate of Harvard Kennedy School - Senior Executives in State and Local Government, and a Michigan State University - Michigan Political Leadership Program (MPLP) Alumni.

First elected in 2020, Xiong is serving her second term on the Macomb County Board of Commissioners. Xiong and her husband, Adam Kue, have four children who attend Warren Consolidated Schools.