Rocky prepares for U.S. Senate ‘fight'

News reports from across Michigan have highlighted Andrew Raczkowski's recent announcement regarding his candidacy for the U.S. Senate. The Right to Life of Michigan News interviewed current Michigan Representative Andrew Raczkowski (R-37). Rep. Raczkowski knows the value of hard work, unity and the sanctity of life. By reading the questions and answers which follow, readers will see a glimpse of Rep. Raczkowski's dedication to Michigan citizens, born and unborn.

Q: What prompted you to enter politics?

A: My father came to this country in 1958 with one dream in mind ... Freedom. He always cherished the idea, the inherent concept, of a free society. I lost my father just a couple of weeks ago, but both he and my mother played such a role in establishing my values and goals. My father, through his journeys, made sure to always teach his children about "giving back."

I always kept those words in mind. After I gave back to my country with my service in the active military, it wasn't enough. I joined the reserves; it wasn't enough. I graduated college, completed my Masters degree and Law degree; it still wasn't enough. One thing I knew, I always had a knack at listening and helping others – so I ran for office. And lost. I ran again and was given the gift of serving the people of Farmington/Farmington Hills and have been striving to "give back" ever since.

I know no matter what I'm ever able to give back, through public service, can never equate the gift of freedom my father and mother have given me.

Q: What is your vision for Michigan?

A: My vision for Michigan is a bright one. It is not the "last one out, turn off the lights" Michigan that we knew in the 1980s. It is important to me that we concentrate on the safety, health-care and welfare of our citizens - from conception to natural death. As imperative as it is that we value, with no uncertainty, the life of a human being, we must also value and strive to improve our quality of life. Michigan citizens deserve the best we have to offer.

Q: How long have you been prolife?

A: I have been prolife my whole life. I think everybody is in one aspect or another. But the most interesting time was when I found myself convincing classmates in law school where life begins. I was in criminal law class and we were learning about what standard is used in criminal cases - that standard being beyond a reasonable doubt. And it got me thinking during a conversation with a friend who was pro-abortion, "do we offer that same standard to life?" So I asked him where does life begin and he said at birth. I asked him "Do you know for sure?" He replied, "that's my opinion." So then I asked him, "So if you were to judge that life beyond a reasonable doubt, would it still be at birth?" He told me that there could be a potential argument that it was at conception. I smiled and he paused. He then said, "I never thought about it, but I guess you would have to say at conception, wouldn't you."

We, as a society, should always expect a higher standard at viewing life than we do at judging death.

Q: What people or events in your life have influenced your political views the most?

A: Obviously, as I stated, my parents have played an enormous role in my life. My family and friends have always kept me grounded. My peers, both Republican and Democrat alike, have always expressed their views with such passion that it has helped me appreciate even the views with which I whole heartedly disagree.

I grew up during the Nixon/Ford/Carter/Reagan era. There have been very few times in history that our country has swayed in such a way from one pendulum to the other. It fascinated me and really made me think about what good individuals could do in government. It also showed me something very important, to do what's right – not always what is popular. During that time, many Americans (including myself), decided what they did and did not want to become.

Q: When and how did you get the nickname Rocky?

A: This was a military nickname given to me by my commanding officer. He could never pronounce my name and could never understand why I fought for the underdogs, the individuals who had a hard time in my unit. I was always driven, throughout my paratrooper and pathfinder certification, to help the ones that lagged behind. When I came to the legislature, needless to say, my peers had no more success with the pronunciation of my last name than my commander so I've always just said "Call me Rocky."

 

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