Representative John Reilly (R-Oakland Twp.) was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in November 2016, representing the 46^th House District in Oakland County.  Prior to his election, he worked for twenty years in automotive test engineering before starting his own home service business, which he has owned and operated for the past twelve years.  Representative Reilly received an automotive technology engineering associate’s degree from Oakland Community College.

Representative Reilly serves on the following committees: Education Reform, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Reform.  Additionally, he serves as Vice Chair on the Financial Liability Reform Committee and the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules.

1.    What attracted you to running for the legislature?
I ran for the legislature after a lot of thoughts and prayers because I was upset with the voting record of the incumbent representative. I thought his votes on Medicaid expansion and Common Core were bad for my district.

2.    When did you first realize you wanted to be a Republican and what attributes do you most identify with?
I identify the most with the pro-life movement and the “pro-freedom” movement of the GOP. I have always believed the GOP is the closest party to the belief that people should be able to live their daily lives with as little interference from the government. Some may say that does not compute with being pro-life, but the inalienable right to life is an important part of freedom.

3.    What individuals from your community have shaped and prepared you to be a legislator?
One of the people who encouraged me to run for office was Tom McMillan. Tom is a longtime friend and mentor. He has proven that you can stand for your principles and still be an effective legislator.

4.    What issues would you like to advocate for because of a personal life experience?
I believe this is a bad way to legislate. Legislation should be in the best interest of Michiganders, not my life.

5.    What are the greatest expectations you hope are achieved and what situations do you hope to avoid?
I hope that our Republican caucus stands up for what is right: limited government, lower taxes, more freedom. I always want to inspire our caucus to the greatest degree possible to vote for what is consistent with our values and right for our voters and not what is expedient.

6.    What one thing would you like to highlight that makes your district special?
One of the cities in my district, Oxford, was home to Bruce Beemer, who was one of the original voices of the Lone Ranger on the radio. There is an annual parade and festival in his honor.

7.    What are some of your favorite activities to participate in on your free time?
I love spending time in the outdoors our great state has to offer. I camp, fish, hunt, and enjoy my time away from the city atmosphere of Lansing.

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