Editorial: Our choice for Congress from the 2nd District

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Michigan’s 2nd District has been well-served by Republican incumbent Bill Huizenga. 

Voters should send Huizenga back to Congress for a sixth time. He is a fiscal conservative who is willing to work with the other side of the aisle to find solutions. The west Michigan district encompasses Lake, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana and Ottawa counties and parts of Allegan, Kent and Mason counties.

Huizenga's Democratic opponent, Bryan Berghoef, is also concerned with the lack of bipartisanship in Washington. Berghoef is a pastor who points to his record of bringing those of different faith backgrounds together as proof he can be bipartisan. 

Berghoef has criticized Huizenga for voting against the HEROES Act, but Huizenga says he supports sensible COVID-19 spending instead of massive, trillion-dollar stimulus bills backed laden with pork. 

Both candidates have indicated their concern with Washington’s out-of-control spending. Berghoef’s answer to the national debt is to  tax code corporations and the rich more. Huizenga supports a balanced budget amendment, which would prevent the government from spending more than it takes in, and he was one of the founding members of the balanced budget amendment caucus in 2011.

Both candidates recognize the need for health care reform. Huizenga has voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act, calling it a problem instead of a solution;  Berghoef’s health care goals, however, are not specific policies as much as a reform wish-list.

Huizenga has worked for practical solutions during his time in Congress. He is gaining influence that serves his district well. 

Voters in the 2nd District should re-elect Republican Bill Huizenga

Endorsements are determined independently by The Detroit News Editorial Board and have no influence on news coverage.