Two candidates, who could be Michigan's next governor, visit MidMichigan Tuesday.
Both Pete Hoekstra and Andy Dillon are vying for their party's nomination for the state's top job.
NBC25 asked them what they would do to fix Michigan and why people should vote for them when many in the state say they're part of the problem.
Republican U.S. Representative Pete Hoekstra visited Lapeer Industries. With six factories and around 500 employees, Hoekstra says the business is a testament to Michigan's talent. Hoekstra says, "You get a good feeling for what's going on in the Thumb, for what's going on in this part of the state. It is small-town America, more importantly, it's small-town successful America."
Democrat Michigan Speaker of the House Andy Dillon visits Flint saying he'll fight for the labor force by creating jobs and supporting the auto industry.
Both candidates say Lansing should provide answers, but lately it's been the problem.
Dillon says, "One of my frustrations with economic development is it's all been siloed with no coordination from Lansing. We've got to get the lives of communication open better so that we know where the private sector jobs are, where the growth opportunities are, and when does government best partner with those folks to change the environment."
Hoekstra says, "We need to get government out of the way. We need to reduce government spending, and we need to reform the tax code."
Both candidates are trying to distance themselves from their political past and focusing on sections of their resumes'.
Dillon says, "I've got 20 years in the private sector, 10 working directly for or with troubled businesses, and the last five in Lansing, so i'll hit the ground running."
Hoekstra says, "My background is a business background. I came out of a manufacturing company. I came out of the manufacturing industry with Herman Miller, so I have a business background and a political background."
Andy Dillon is in a tight race with Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero.
Pete Hoekstra is neck and neck with Michigan Attorney General Mike Cox and businessman Rick Snyder.
Recent polls show the republican ticket leading the race.
