NEWS
President Trump claims
country is 'rounding the corner' amid new COVID-19 surge
Detroit News
October 31, 2020
"Suburban parents are not a monolith, so there are differing levels of willingness to accept progressive policy in exchange for registering a protest vote," said Sellek, who previously worked for Republicans. "The economy is his strong suit there, and he can address that during his visit."
Peters, James make final cases in Michigan's Senate race
Associated Press
October 31, 2020
“There is most definitely a path for James as he will likely run ahead of Trump by establishing his own presence as a candidate, but Biden is making it tougher by bringing in Obama to excite the Black vote in a way Peters failed to do,” Sellek said.
Tight Race Could Determine Control Of U.S. Senate
Gongwer
October 30, 2020
"That's not a comfortable feeling if you're the Peters campaign," Harbor Strategic CEO John Sellek said. "Concern throughout the party is there."
Watch: Political experts preview the 2020 election in Michigan
MLive
October 29, 2020
“With the election less than a week away, Oakland University Political Science Professor David Dulio and Harbor Strategic Founder and CEO John Sellek joined MLive on a live broadcast"
‘Oakland County ‘ground zero’ in fight for control of Michigan House
Bridge Michigan
October 28, 2020
"Sellek said Republicans also are posing solid fundraising numbers, running TV ads in key races and still benefiting from districts that they drew in 2011. “Even if it’s 10 years old, [the districts] still favor Republicans,” Sellek said.
Biden, Obama, Trump plan more visits as Michigan reprises battleground role
Bridge Michigan
October 28, 2020
“Trump’s return to the suburbs will be “really important not only for him, but for all the down ticket Republicans in Michigan,” said John Sellek, a GOP strategist with Harbor Strategic Public Affairs. Even if Trump doesn’t win Michigan, a competitive showing could provide a “huge boost” to GOP candidates "
‘Warning flare’: New swing-state data shows massive Democratic early-vote lead
Politico
October 23, 2020
"Sellek (R), Harbor Strategic in Michigan: “Polling here shows Biden leading amongst those who voted early so far, yet we are consistently seeing Republican voters expressing slightly higher excitement about voting than Democrats."
Shifting Winds Puts MI-03 Into Tossup Status With Both Sides All-In
Gongwer
October 23, 2020
“Scholten was allowed to build her reputation for a long time and so now, when you come in and start trying to explain some of her more progressive positions on her issues, it might be a little harder for voters to believe that because Scholten herself hasn't explained that."
President Trump will hold Tuesday rally in Whitmer's home city
Detroit Free Press
October 23, 2020
"There is nothing more valuable than a candidate's time, so it is clear the Trump campaign is fighting for Michigan because it is matching or exceeding the number of visits by the Biden team," said Sellek, who has previously worked for Republicans.”
Trump vs. Biden: Here's how every region of the state plays its part in the race
Detroit Free Press
October 23, 2020
Could final Trump-Biden debate change the election outcome? Our panel weighs in
Detroit Free Press
October 23, 2020
"In any debate, absent a major gaffe, the one leading going is in is usually the one leading going out. Now they return to the battlefield.”
MIRS Monday Podcast
MIRS News
October 19, 2020
“Sellek said James is keeping the race relatively close by humanizing himself through his numerous TV ads. "It's certainly hurting him," Sellek said of Peters’ more "distant, consultant-looking ads." "He's very serious, kind of dower . . . not humorous or entertaining. For all the negativity that's out there and all the fighting, being likable in politics still does matter"
Scholten, Meijer in tightest of races to succeed Amash in Congress
Detroit News
October 17, 2020
"Instead, two political neophytes are trying to introduce themselves at a time of upheaval and disruption — amid a pandemic, a raucous presidential election and a lot of frustration with Trump, said Sellek, who has managed high-profile Republican campaigns in Michigan. By traditional measures, he gives Meijer the edge, noting his military service, low-key style and ability to talk about compassion and caring "very comfortably." Sellek said Meijer has figured out a way to talk to the suburbs that many Republicans haven't.”
Political roundup: Misogyny behind alleged terrorist plot; what does the GOP look like after Trump?
Michigan Radio
October 16, 2020
“It's completely and utterly shocking, yet somehow not surprising in 2020."
Tight Polls, Multiple Dynamics Mark James-Peters Senate Battle
Gongwer
October 14, 2020
"Harbor Strategic CEO John Sellek said Mr. Peters is a very methodical politician who does not often seek the spotlight. He said as a politician that can be an effective way to operate but does not translate well to a campaign. He said what he called underwhelming performance with Black voters in particular has "got to be a concern for Democrats." Mr. Sellek said three months out from an election that could maybe be chalked up to lack of attention to the race, but three weeks out that should raise some red flags.”
Third-party voters expected to drop in 2020. Who they support could decide Michigan.
MLive
October 12, 2020
“So far the third parties aren’t registering at the same level. Overall the sense among most pundits and pollsters is that the third-party candidates don’t seem to be in line to make as much of an impact this time,” said John Sellek, a veteran GOP strategist and founder of Harbor Strategic Communications."
See where Michigan absentee ballot requests are greatest
Detroit News
October 11, 2020
'What we’ll find when this election cycle is over is that no-reason absentee or early voting will have massively increased the amount of money raised and spent by the parties," Sellek said. "Because Election Day is now starting in late September rather than 7 a.m. Nov. 3.”
Whitmer plot could affect fight for battleground Michigan
New York Times
October 10, 2020
“Michigan Republican John Sellek, who ran Romney’s 2012 Michigan campaign, said soft Republicans looking for a final reason to support Biden are finding one in Trump’s response to Whitmer. “Just as in the first debate, what the president could have done when he was asked, he could have clearly put down white supremacists,” Sellek said. “And he clearly didn’t do it."
Operatives Split On If DCCC Ad Indicates Scholten Momentum In MI-03
Gongwer
October 6, 2020
'(Scholten) is trying to act like a replacement for a Republican in a year when a lot of people are very frustrated with President Trump and, therefore, the Republican Party," Mr. Sellek said. "She is essentially saying, I know you normally vote Republican, and I know this Peter Meijer guy sounds nice – but you don't like Republicans right now, so come vote for me and I'll act like one."
Trump fuels fight over governor's emergency powers
New York Times
October 4, 2020
“This is what Trump has inspired in the state: liberate Michigan and attack Whitmer,” said John Sellek, a Republican political consultant in Brighton."
For Michigan evangelicals, Trump represents ‘babies saved,' Supreme Court seat
MLive
October 3, 2020
“John Sellek, a veteran GOP strategist and founder of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said the Supreme Court vacancy could make a difference in West Michigan, where religious traditions run deep. “The Supreme Court pick certainly is something that will cause a lot of people who don’t like Trump’s style to now have this tangible thing they can put in their hand and say: This is why I still need to vote for Trump,” Sellek said."
30 days to Election Day, here's an update from the 2020 battleground states
Economic Times of India
October 4, 2020
“This is what Trump has inspired in the state: liberate Michigan and attack Whitmer,” said John Sellek, a Republican political consultant in Brighton."
Trump’s positive COVID-19 test upends final stretch of 2020 presidential race
MLive
October 2, 2020
“It’s perhaps the ultimate October surprise, one that traps Trump in the White House and may take Biden off the trail just as he and his campaign were going public again,” said John Sellek, a veteran GOP strategist and founder of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs."
Au cœur des «swing states» qui tanguent entre Trump et Biden
Le Temps - Switzerland
October 1, 2020
“John Sellek agrees. Now the head of a Lansing-based public relations agency, this former Republican political adviser led Mitt Romney's 2012 campaign in Michigan."
Joe Biden’s Grand Rapids visit targets former Republican stronghold
MLive
October 1, 2020
“Going to West Michigan, and Kent County in particular, is their attempt to put their foot on Trump’s throat,” said John Sellek, a veteran GOP strategist."
Free Press panel: Was there a winner between Biden and Trump in 'bar fight' of a debate?
Detroit Free Press
September 30, 2020
“Both missed opportunities, such as Biden refusing to disown radical ideas like court packing and Trump missing the chance to firmly criticize racial injustice."
Election Update with John Sellek and Adrian Hemond
Morning WakeUp, WILS
September 30, 2020
“John, a Republican from Harbor Strategic, and Adrian, a Democrat from Grassroots Midwest, continue the discussion from last night's presidential debate."
Republican women are veering right to win in Trump's America
BloombergQuint - India
September 30, 2020
“Michigan politics watchers say the 10th District was primed for a woman to win. Back in 2002 it elected Candice Miller as its representative in the House, and voters kept re-electing her until she stepped down in 2016. “It’s a district that has shown repeatedly that it values women in office,” says John Sellek, a Republican public-relations consultant.”
In Senate bid, John James is blunt about police, racism. Less so about Trump.
Bridge Michigan
September 23, 2020
“James is uniquely suited to be able to speak to some of those concerns in a way other Republicans aren’t,” said John Sellek, a Republican political consultant."
Former UM football player talks holding institutions accountable for sexual predators
Michigan Radio
September 21, 2020
Third Parties See Diminished Support in 2020 Race
Wall Street Journal
September 16, 2020
“Last time there may have been apathy around Hillary,” said John Sellek, a longtime GOP strategist in Michigan."
Michigan Senate panel advances controversial gravel mining bills
Detroit News
September 22, 2020
“Operating Engineers union members gathered outside the Capitol ahead of the vote, encouraging support so the gravel would be available for paving or road projects. ”
Controversial gravel permit bill up for vote in Senate committee Tuesday
Michigan Radio
September 21, 2020
"John Sellek, a spokesman for a coalition of construction and aggregate trade groups called the Build It Michigan Strong coalition said in a press release, "SB 431 is an infrastructure bill that will help reduce construction costs."
In Race For Michigan's Eighth District, Slotkin Sells Moderate Image As Junge Seeks Name Recognition
WKAR
September 21, 2020
“Can he undo nearly two years of branding that's been done for Slotkin? It'll be very difficult without a whole lot of money,” said Sellek.”
Biden, Trump send message with diverging campaign strategies in battleground Michigan
Detroit News
September 20, 2020
"While Biden is leading in most polling, Trump maintains leads when it comes to which candidate will do better on the economy, Sellek noted.”
Trump and Biden back-to-back visits show Michigan is still a 2020 battleground
MLive
September 8, 2020
“The candidate schedules tell you everything you need to know,” said Sellek, founder of Harbor strategic Public Affairs. “For Biden, restoring some part of the blue wall is key to him winning ... For the Republican side, the map is not getting any bigger. They can’t afford to let Michigan fall off the radar. So we are going to start seeing a lot more attention.”
Trump’s dilemma: How much longer to contest Michigan?
Politico
September 8, 2020
"What scares Republicans is the change in Livingston,” said John Sellek, a local GOP strategist. “It’s a high-growth area, and that growth is coming from suburbanites who aren’t sure they identify as Republicans anymore.”
Recall Drives Could Help Governor Whitmer
WBCK, Battle Creek
September 4, 2020
“Any digital fundraising team worth their salt will 100 percent attempt to take advantage of a recall effort," Sellek said."
Stateside: Teachers, parents plan for uncertainty; Monroe rethinks Custer monument; DNC, RNC recap
Stateside, WUOM
August 28, 2020
"Today on Stateside, after two weeks of political conventions, we’ll get an analysis about how both parties presented their nominee and what takeaways there were for Michigan voters."
Mike Pence’s Michigan rally is first for presidential campaigns here since COVID-19 struck
Grand Rapids Press
August 28, 2020
“If you’re trying to keep the lights on in Michigan while the TV is off, then having the president or vice president dropping into Northern Michigan is a smart thing to do,” Sellek."
Democrats Formally Nominate Biden. Now Trump Takes the Stage
Detroit Today, WDET
August 24, 2020
He says this year’s televised and highly controlled convention may be a new way forward. “Conventions may be changed forever, and maybe not in a good way,” says Sellek.
Michigan Gov. Whitmer says Joe Biden will follow 'science,' not 'ego'
Detroit News
August 17, 2020
“Michigan is often won through its economy and blue collar workers, said Sellek. That's why Whitmer's speech felt like it was about COVID but was "primarily an appeal for blue collar workers who left the Democrats in 2016 to return," he said."
John Sellek tells what he will be watching for during the Democratic National Convention.
Morning Wake Up, WILS
August 17, 2020
The ability of convention organizers to be creative and create something more than a string of Zoom recordings will be key to people staying tuned in.
Battleground Michigan: Races tighten, too close to call
Highland County Press
August 15, 2020
“The fight for control of the Michigan House of Representatives is a major focus for Governor Whitmer,” Sellek said. “I suspect we will see an increase in activity from her now that the veepstakes are over and she seeks to have more leverage over the last two-years of her term heading into reelection in 2022."
Why Kamala Harris May Be a Tough Target for Republicans
The Wall Street Journal
August 12, 2020
“The law and order label that was somewhat toxic for [Ms. Harris] in the primary will actually make it harder to label her as threatening to the suburbs,” said John Sellek, a GOP strategist in Michigan who was an adviser to the last two Republican attorneys general in the state.”
Gretchen Whitmer for VP? Here are pros, cons of putting her on Biden ticket
Detroit Free Press
August 10, 2020
“John Sellek, who runs Harbor Strategic Public Affairs in Brighton and who consults with Republican candidates, said Biden’s view may be even simpler: “I think No. 1 is that she’s tangled with Trump and she’s come out ahead.”
GOP challengers face huge cash disadvantage in Slotkin, Stevens races
Detroit News
August 8, 2020
“In 2018, did we witness the permanent shift of the suburbs to the Democratic Party in this larger realignment we’re seeing?" Sellek said. "Or are the suburbs going to remain a battleground that goes back and forth every cycle?”
GOP’s advantage wanes in last year of Michigan ‘historical’ gerrymander
Bridge Magazine
August 5, 2020
“We already saw the first layer of Republican seats peeled off in the suburbs, and now it’s starting to reach further out,” said GOP consultant John Sellek of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs. “We’re getting to the outer edges of Oakland County now, which used to be completely safe. Those are now the battlegrounds.”
Absentee ballots favor Democrats in Michigan, causing worry among GOP
Bridge Magazine
August 5, 2020
“Given the new reality, partially created by the COVID-19 pandemic but also Michigan’s expanded voting rights, Republican candidates will have to adjust to the rise in absentee voting or they’ll be at a disadvantage, said John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic.”
Michigan Republicans Split Over Mail-In Voting Amid State's Primary
WXXI, Rochester, NY
August 3, 2020
“Right now, we're going through a period where there isn't a whole lot of trust in a whole lot of institutions in American government. And that basic one that we've got to be able to hold on to is the integrity of the vote.”
Primary voters head to Michigan polls amid crowded fields, pandemic changes
Detroit News
August 3, 2020
“Sellek, a Republican and CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, identified the Democratic primary for Oakland County executive as among the most interesting.”
Trump campaign goes quiet on Michigan airwaves
Baltimore Sun
July 29, 2020
“There will be on-and-off skirmishes in the blue wall states, but for now, it looks like some of the fights we’ll see are in the Republican base states.”
Michigan Republicans Split Over Mail-In Voting Amid State's Primary
All Things Considered, NPR
August 3, 2020
“the part we have to hold on to is the integrity of the vote.”
Would sending federal troops into Detroit end up helping or hurting President Donald TRUMP in November?
MIRS News
July 27, 2020
“At this point the protests in Detroit have primarily been peaceful. When there have been flare ups, Chief Craig has done a good job getting in front of them. And, Mayor Duggan, unlike other mayors, has had thick enough skin to be firm when needed. So, sending federal troops into Detroit would be a head scratcher. The focus for local authorities right now is on neighborhood gun violence.”
How Trump is impacting Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District race
Grand Rapids Press
July 29, 2020
“They’re still heading to the same place, which is let’s get Grand Rapids and West Michigan back on track after everything we’ve been through this year,” he said. “But you almost never see Meijer take an angry or strident tone and I think that reflects the difference in their personalities.”
Bentivolio, newcomers battle in GOP Metro Detroit race to face Rep. Stevens
Detroit News
July 29, 2020
“In a now swing district, any time that your candidates are having to run all the way to the left or all the way to the right, it's going to be a problem," he added. "And Haley Stevens has been able to stay, at least publicity-wise, in the moderate wing.”
Michigan Threatens to Slip From Trump as He Goes Quiet on Airwaves
New York Times
July 29, 2020
“There will be on-and-off skirmishes in the blue wall states, but for now, it looks like some of the fights we’ll see are in the Republican base states."
Campaigns Try to Reach Voters Without Touching Them During Coronavirus Pandemic
MichMash, WDET
July 27, 2020
“What we see when we look at the candidates closer to the ground like county wide office, state representatives, and so forth is it doesn’t matter what party you’re in. They are realizing they need to get to the doors. And they are finding ways to do it, both as Republicans and Democrats.”
Gov. Whitmer came into office with bold policy plans. Now, they’re on hold as she battles crises
MLive
July 24, 2020
“The moment COVID-19 was confirmed in Michigan wasn’t that much different than the day President (George W.) Bush was sitting in a classroom trying to pursue his policy reform, education, on Sept. 11, 2001"
Eclectic mix of Republicans fight for chance to unseat Slotkin
The Detroit News
July 23, 2020
“Any Republican candidate was going to face an uphill battle in the 8th because they’re facing an incumbent with a ton of earned media, a disciplined, moderate message and a historic fundraising record.”
Meijer, Afendoulis Battle For Republican Nom
Gongwer
July 17, 2020
“They essentially agree on all the issues, but they differ on style and strategy, right now. Meijer from the get-go has had a message with softer edges on it and Lynn has been pushing real hard to the right and openly appealing to the base."
James A Rare GOP Senate Candidate Outraising Democrat
Gongwer
July 16, 2020
"Sellek said Michigan has been a bit different than races in other states. The Democrats nationally have the advantage in digital campaign fundraising infrastructure and have been able to capitalize on attracting a large donor base of small donors. He added that "John James has really been the only of the Republicans" who have been able to match the Democrats in that arena."
Jacques: Governor's unchecked powers need some checks
Detroit News
July 12, 2020
“The timing is essential. “Based on other recent initiatives, it’s possible they will need all 180 days just to ensure it got to the Legislature by lame duck, so they barely got started in time,” says John Sellek, CEO of Lansing-based Harbor Strategic Public Affairs.
Trump, Biden take different approaches to campaigning, amid coronavirus concerns in Michigan
MLive
July 12, 2020
Sellek said, “Because mail-in voting is occurring at such an incredibly high rate, the chances are better than ever that somebody could turn around and walk back to their kitchen table and just mark your name down on the ballot.”
Elissa Slotkin Is Sounding the Alarm. Will Democrats Listen?
Politico
July 10, 2020
“The district is unique because it’s really three districts—west, central and east,” says John Sellek"
Political groups spend millions on ads to turn Michigan Republicans against Trump over coronavirus response
MLive
July 9, 2020
“Sellek, founder of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said partisan groups face an uphill battle gaining voters’ attention while the pandemic, economic downturn and protest movements are ongoing. “The ability for a third party group to just drop into a state and really make an impact into an average voter’s daily routine is difficult at best.”
Interest groups, firms tied to Michigan politics benefit from feds' loan program
The Detroit News
July 7, 2020
“By participating in the PPP program, along with many other Lansing small businesses, we were able to keep working for our teachers, hospitals and firefighters when they needed it most."
Battle looms as board OKs petition to strip Michigan governor's emergency powers
The Detroit News
July 6, 2020
“While it may take much of the 180 days to collect the signatures in a social distancing era, the timing of when it is submitted to the Legislature for a vote may be an indication of the issue's importance in the elections," said Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs in Lansing."
Monday Pundit Panel
MIRS Newsletter
June 23, 2020
“Q. Republicans in the House aren’t wearing masks, Dems are. Which is doing the right thing politically? Each is playing to their supporters," Sellek asserts. “But find me a normal person who watches House session & I’ll buy you (take-out) lunch.”
Letter: Don’t forget about the damn roads
Holland Sentinel
June 21, 2020
“Michigan has gone through an unforgettable experience during the COVID-19 pandemic, but there is something else we should not forget: fixing the damn roads. We need bold, creative reforms to stretch our remaining road funding further, such a creating uniform statewide rules that increase access to road building materials, helping to keep construction costs down."
Petition drives target Gretchen Whitmer. And she’s raising money off them.
Bridge Magazine
June 23, 2020
“Any digital fundraising team worth their salt will 100 percent attempt to take advantage of a recall effort, even if the recall effort has absolutely no chance of making progress,” said John Sellek.”
Michigan Democrats ‘in knots’ as calls to ‘defund the police’ grow louder
Bridge Magazine
June 15, 2020
“Most of these politicians know that there is an eventual way forward in which we have to not just acknowledge but implement reforms that protect African Americans and minorities, make them feel heard, make them feel safer, and continue to have law enforcement,” Sellek said.
From coronavirus to unrest, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer shaped by crises
Bridge Magazine
June 6, 2020
"She didn’t initiate any of these problems, but her legacy is going to be determined by how she responds to them and how effective she is in responding to them,” said Sellek. “She is facing something unlike any other Michigan governor has in modern history.”
Trump embraces a new kind of rally: The ‘Trumptilla’
Politico
May 29, 2020
"The boat parades are essentially recreating Trump rallies, but with social distancing built in,” said John Sellek.
Gov. Whitmer’s relationship with Republican leaders is at an all-time low. Now they need to solve a $3.2B problem together.
MLive
May 26, 2020
"As John Sellek, longtime Republican politico and founder of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs put it, “I think it’s safe to say it’s one of the worst relationships in the history of Michigan state government.”
Trump visits Michigan amid coronavirus pandemic, historic flooding and economic downturn
MLive
May 21, 2020
"When any president visits an auto factory in Michigan, regardless of the product they are producing, it’s really about one thing: The economy,” Sellek said."
President Trump Visits Michigan, Argues It's Time To Reopen The State
NPR
May 21, 2020
"And it's a time when his Democratic opponent isn't traveling. Here's how John Sellek, a Republican strategist in Lansing, explained it to me.
"It's a state that the president won in 2016. And by all accounts, he needs and wants to win it again this election cycle.
Mike Duggan, Gretchen Whitmer: Contrasts in COVID-19 crisis
The Detroit News
May 19, 2020
"Duggan, a friend and early supporter of Biden's, has kept his response largely focused on detail, data, facts and a local strategy to combat the virus. Whitmer, a potential Democratic running mate for Biden, appeared frequently on state and national TV to discuss the state's response and the federal government's alleged failings in the crisis."
Amash's Fate in MI-03 Still Unknown
Gongwer Michigan
May 19, 2020
"John Sellek talked with Gongwer News Service Michigan about Rep. Justin Amash dropping out of the presidential race:
"After abandoning three different political labels– Republican, Independent & Libertarian— in the last year to avoid a loss, he now just looks lost."
Both Democrats and Republicans will blame Justin Amash for running for president as a Libertarian if they lose, poll finds
Detroit Metro Times
May 6, 2020
"adding more anti-Trump candidates dilutes the anti-Trump vote, which hurts Democrats," John Sellek, CEO of the consulting firm Harbor Strategic Public Affairs
Amash Presidential Runs Means MI-03 Race Can "Officially Get Under Way"
Gongwer Michigan
April 30, 2020
"It's no surprise Amash is running despite no chance to win because it was the next logical step for someone who, while firm in his beliefs and strong in his love of country, has always mixed that with a healthy dose of attention seeking."
Amash launches committee to explore presidential run
The Detroit News
April 28, 2020
"If your theory of the race is that it’s a referendum on the president, which I believe it is, adding more anti-Trump candidates dilutes the anti-Trump vote, which hurts Democrats as polling has shown in Michigan," Sellek said"
Opinion: Boost economy by cutting NEPA red tape
Traverse City Record Eagle
April 28, 2020
"Michigan’s economy by all accounts was on quite a roll recently. Unemployment was low, incomes were growing and Detroit’s comeback became a national story. Things were good.
Then the unthinkable happened: a pandemic."
Dave Akerly and the Morning Wake Up!
WILS 1320 AM, Lansing
April 27, 2020
"It wasn't his wife's choice. It wasn't anyone else's choice. It was Sen. Zorn's choice.
And it was a huge mistake.”
Opinion: Presidential race could impact Michigan's agricultural industry
Detroit News
April 27, 2020
"As the national media covers the presidential race this year, local farmers have been watching with great interest. That’s because a number of policy proposals being debated at the presidential level may have a significant impact on Michigan's agriculture industry and overall economy."
Michigan Legislature votes to extend emergency declaration 23 days
The Detroit News
April 7, 2020
"The Legislature is hearing from thousands of people everyday who only know the bits of information they pull from the television. And they are either fearful or angry or both," said Sellek, a Republican and former legislative staffer. In the midst of an emergency, "there’s not much of an input point for the public, and usually the Legislature is the branch that fulfills that role.”
In 'turnout explosion,' Michigan Democratic primary voters set record
The Detroit News
March 11, 2020
"Michigan Democrats had been watching "an intense nomination fight with enough titillating twists, turns, characters and comebacks to qualify as a network mini-series, culminating in a two-person battle for the soul of the party they were told they got to decide," said John Sellek, a Republican and CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs in Lansing.
'Democrats have spoken.’ Joe Biden’s Michigan win shows signs of strong coalition for general election
MLive
March 11, 2020
"Instead of winning by simply saying he is not Bernie, he must now build the campaign infrastructure he lacks and, more importantly, a durable message detailing what he would do as president that can consistently survive the eight-month slog to Election Day we are about to commence."
Michigan's Democratic Presidential Primary Election
Morning Wake Up WILS
March 10, 2020
"John and Dave talk about the primaries today and what stands out at the bitter end.
West Michigan looms as unexpected battleground for Sanders, Biden
Detroit News
March 9, 2020
"When you’re this close to Election Day, candidate election schedules tell you everything you need to know about how the race is going,” Sellek said."
Issues & Ale: Michigan’s Presidential Primary
Michigan Public Radio
March 9, 2020
"Join Michigan Radio’s It's Just Politics team of Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta, and Joe DiSano and John Sellek the day before Michigan’s primary election for this fast paced look at the presidential race and how it may play out across the state.
Ease regulation to unlock American investment
Detroit News
March 7, 2020
"Imagine turning on the radio while stuck in traffic and hearing that a new road or bridge was proposed to ease your traffic problems, but will have to wait 10 years for regulatory approval before the first shovel of dirt is turned."
Whitmer under pressure to make endorsement before Michigan primary, analysts say
Detroit Free Press
March 4, 2020
"It's kind of put up or shut up time," and although he does not think Whitmer will endorse this week, "it's better to be on the winning team than no team," Sellek said.
Senate Bill 431 prompts concern over mining
Tri-County Times
March 3, 2020
"Sellek pointed out that while shopping malls, landfills and other industrial facilities can be zoned for specific places, mining can only happen specifically where sand, gravel and limestone are located underground."
THE GRAVEL PIT NEXT DOOR?
Northern Michigan Express
February 24, 2020
"You can zone where a manufacturing plant should be located a lot of times, but Mother Nature decided where the gravel is,” he said. “It doesn’t fit the normal mold of zoning.”
Stateside: West MI’s shifting politics; gun rights vs. gun control; comics writer Saladin Ahmed
Michigan Radio
February 25, 2020
"Republican Congressman Fred Upton has announced his re-election bid, but the 2018 election could foretell a fight to keep his seat. We discuss with John Sellek."
Pence using Michigan visit to reach pro-Trump farmers, blue-collar workers
MLive
February 24, 2020
"John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said the visits target two key constituencies that helped deliver Michigan to a Republican presidential nominee for the first time in decades -- farmers and blue-collar workers."
Impeachment fades for Slotkin as Democrats try to pivot away
Associated Press - National
February 24, 2020
"For Slotkin and Democrats like her, the question is whether voters buy the focus on local issues in the Twitter-centric Trump era, said Michigan consultant John Sellek. In Slotkin’s case, he pointed out, she sought a national profile by speaking widely about her background as a former CIA officer and taking leading roles on impeachment and Iran."
Langlois MI-03 Bow Out Could Emphasize Power Of Grassroots Support
Gongwer
February 14, 2020
"Considering the district has been so solidly Republican for a long time, the choice between Amash and Meijer, or even Afendoulis at this point, is seen to be protest vote against the president or to turn the page and focus on the bread and butter conservative issues that people are talking about in other districts," Mr. Sellek said.
DeVos family pumps $800,000 into super PAC targeting Peters
Detroit News
February 13, 2020
"James, like U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, has been able to draw contributions from donors across the country, said John Sellek, CEO of the Lansing-based consulting firm Harbor Strategic Public Affairs."
Morning Wake Up with Dave Akerly
WILS 1320 AM
February 13, 2020
"More on the democratic primaries from John Sellek. John and Dave also take a close look at Michael Bloomberg.
Leading Democratic presidential candidates ask Whitmer how to win Michigan
MLive
February 6, 2020
"Some pundits mused that Democrats may have given Whitmer the national spotlight to audition for vice president. John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said Whitmer’s ability to win over suburban voters in a battleground state put her in the “sweet spot” for consideration."
Analysis: Governor Whitmer's State Of The Union Response
WKAR Radio
February 5, 2020
"John Sellek, who helms the Lansing public relations firm Harbor Strategic Public Affairs and ran communications for Governor Whitmer’s erstwhile Republican opponent former Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette, said Whitmer delivered the speech Democratic leadership had commissioned her to give."
Morning Wake Up with Dave Aklery
WILS 1320 AM
February 4, 2020
"John Sellek stops by to talk about the Iowa Caucus and Governor Whitmer’s state of the union response.
Michigan Governor to Take National Stage to Rebut Trump
The New York Times
February 3, 2020
"Back in our House days, Whitmer was the "frequent, sometimes fiery, critic of Republican policies" but now does it with a smile, positioning as a "more moderate-sounding figure." She "matured in her political style since she was in the Legislature,” said Sellek. “Her style as governor has been to be forceful, but to portray optimism.”
Michigan governor to take national stage to rebut Trump
MLive
February 3, 2020
"National Democrats know their voters are tiring from the endless slog of the primaries, so their goal here is to give these people a fresh face and a general election message that reminds them they will soon have a nominee and turn the fight to Trump instead of each other,” Sellek said.
Off The Record
Michigan Public Television
January 31, 2020
"I gotta give John Sellek a shout out, who basically said these speeches are sort of like cotton candy. If you do well, they melt in your mouth and you forget about it, and if you don't, it's very sticky."
Whitmer shifts from SOTS to SOTU; tackling imam shortage; marijuana banking
Stateside, Michigan Radio
January 31, 2020
"We talk to our Friday political commentators about how she might position Michigan as a key player in a contentious election year. John Sellek is the CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Relations. Matt Friedman is co-founder of the Tanner Friedman public relations firm."
New group reserves TV time to tout Whitmer's road plan
The Detroit News
January 31, 2020
"John Sellek, the founder and CEO of Lansing-based Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, called the ad buy "unprecedented" for a mid-term policy proposal. "Since the roads cannot literally be fixed before the 2022 election, they are fighting to define what 'fixed' will mean in the minds of voters, and this is an aggressive way to do so," added Sellek, who worked for Republican Bill Schuette, who ran against Whitmer in 2018."
Whitmer to lay out Dems’ agenda in her State of the Union response
Lansing City Pulse
January 29, 2020
"The governor advised, “I’m going to stay hydrated but not too hydrated,” she laughed. From a public perception standpoint, Whitmer’s prime-time appearance can cut one of two ways for the governor, said John Sellek of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs. At best, the speech will go well. It’ll be like “cotton candy.” Listeners will find it sweet before it melts from their memories. At worst, she could make a blunder like Rubio’s drink of water."
Lucido 'Running Out Of Time' To Apologize
MIRS News
January 27, 2020
"Sellek said the fact three women have come forward would suggest "it's a pattern." As the husband of a woman "who's been there," he concurred that Lucido has a problem and the longer he waits to address it, the harder it
becomes to undo any damage.
Whitmer SOS II, What Might We Expect?
MIRS News
January 27, 2020
"She will not be apologizing for proposing 45-cents or pulling a President Bill CLINTON when he said, 'Maybe I raised your taxes too much.' Her overarching goal at all times is to show boldness and action on the roads and that is how she will continue to frame it. After getting out the credit card, though, the channel will change to ‘which projects will be selected?'"
Redistricting group finds new targets while holding tight to grassroots
The Detroit News
January 27, 2020
"It's unusual for a grassroots group that formed around a single issue to have staying power after achieving its goal, said John Sellek, who owns the Lansing public relations firm Harbor Strategic. The odds worsen during an election year when volunteers may be pulled to other political issues or candidate campaigns."
Slotkin puts focus back on health care after navigating Iran, impeachment
MLive
January 24, 2020
"Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs and a veteran Republican campaign strategist, said Slotkin’s “steady style and policy chops” stood out in a year that put more attention on flashier personalities like U.S. Reps. Alexandria Ocasio Cortez, D-N.Y., and Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit."
Michigan Republicans believe John James is their best shot at U.S. Senate in decades
MLive
January 17, 2020
"If you were to write the review on 2019, you’d have to say that he has succeeded wildly in both accounts so far. That strategy took discipline and it paid off big time for him,” Sellek said.
Oakland County executive pays outstanding water bills after one year
Detroit News
January 16, 2020
"A candidate not paying their water bill wouldn't be the deciding issue in a race but certainly "doesn't look good," said John Sellek.
Since being appointed to the executive post in August, Coulter has played his cards pretty well, Sellek said, adding that his "governing honeymoon" is about over with the looming August primary election."
Great Lakes tunnel project should continue forward
Holland Sentinel
January 12, 2020
Former House Speaker Jase Bolger:
"While we certainly need to protect our environment, we can do that, protect our economy and move toward a high-tech energy infrastructure project that may rival any built in our state’s history."
What to expect in 2020— recession or success? Michigan Economic Forecast Forum
WSGW Saginaw
January 8, 2020
Host Art Lewis and the Michigan Chamber of Commerce's Bob Thomas talk about the economic forecast for 2020 in Michigan.
Big cash haul for the reelection campaign of Rep. Slotkin as she pivots her main conversation with constituents from impeachment to Iran
Morning Wake Up, WILS
January 7, 2020
"John Sellek discussed the how Iran, Impeachment, The Squad and digital fundraising are affecting Michigan politics with Dave Akerly on 1320 WILS.
"It's not about Haslett, Brighton or Rochester, it's about President Trump".
4th annual Michigan Economic Forecast Forum
WKZO Kalamazoo
January 6, 2020
Michigan Chamber of Commerce's Bob Thomas discusses the key public policy battles of 2019 and previews the 4th Annual Economic Forecast Forum.
Michigan road funding talks stalled out in 2019. Will next year be any different?
MLive
December 30, 2019
"I think the voters see the roads issue about the same as they see the Detroit Lions,” Sellek said. “They just don’t have a lot of faith that the game winds up with a victory.”
Reviewing 2019's Policy Battles and Previewing 2020
WPHM Port Huron
December 26, 2019
Michigan Chamber of Commerce's Bob Thomas discusses the key public policy battles of 2019, like Line 5 and road funding, and previews the key events of January 2020, like the 4th Annual Michigan Economic Forecast Forum.
No-reason absentee voting could change 2020 Michigan campaigns
Detroit News
December 27, 2019
"Once absentee data is in, candidates can pinpoint where the remaining voters might be located and invest in those areas heavily, said John Sellek, who owns the public relations firm Harbor Strategic. “It may not change the amount of activity in Michigan, but it may change who is being targeted,” Sellek said. “They’ll be using all of the massive amounts of data to make a scientific judgment of how a person voted.”
GOP leader Chatfield: Road plan should cut vehicle registration fee
Detroit News
December 26, 2019
"Drivers and taxpayers are frustrated and skeptical of state leaders when it comes to the roads, increasing the need for transparency and simplicity in any new road funding deal to avoid "echoes of the failures of 2015," said John Sellek, who owns the public relations firm Harbor Strategic and worked as a campaign strategist for former Republican Attorney General Bill Schuette.
Trump to hold first 2020 rally in Toledo
Detroit News
December 23, 2019
"John Sellek, CEO of the Michigan based consulting business Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said Trump is focused "like a laser on blue-collar, working-class people, including those who didn't vote in 2018 or aren't even registered."
"A visit to Toledo is another example of this, and it's a two-for-one by hitting media markets in both Michigan and Ohio," said Sellek, who's worked with Republicans. "It's a very efficient use of the candidate's time."
Impeachment vote could pass while Trump campaigns in Michigan
MLive
December 15, 2019
"John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs, said, “This president has rewritten the rules on battling his opponents, so the last thing we should expect is him hiding out in the White House bowling alley during the impeachment process.”
Is it time for a new Whitmer road funding plan?
MIRS News
December 9, 2019
"Gov. John ENGLER struggled through several attempts at solving his first campaign priority of cutting property taxes before ultimately doing so through a shift because the issue remained important to voters. The roads issue also remains hot so Gov. Whitmer will press forward, although I think we will see a multi-layered attempt, such as passing something through the legislature while also trying for something at the ballot. Regardless of the paths taken, they must be tested by talking to voters directly. If voters were polled on the first plan, their answers must have been completely ignored.”
What's next on Line 5?
Lansing City Pulse
April 3, 2019
"If the tunnel is sunk, the pressure actually falls to the governor and attorney general to protect Mackinac Island from a potential oil bath."
Suspending the Healthcare Insurance Tax
Ron Jolly Show, WTCM
November 22, 2019
"Michigan Chamber of Commerce VP Wendy Block says Congress should act soon to again suspend the Healthcare Insurance Tax so small businesses have more of an ability to provide health insurance, and more, for their employees."
Hadden: End surprise medical billing to protect our working families
Lansing State Journal
November 20, 2019
"One of the most pressing healthcare issues today is known as “surprise medical billing.” This practice occurs when an insured patient sees an out-of-network provider, oftentimes without their knowledge"
GOP Closer To Backing 'Their Candidate' In MI-03 With Lower Exit
Gongwer
November 21, 2019
"the main turning point was the 48-hour period from July 3rd to July 4th Amash quit the GOP and Peter Meijer entered the primary. At that point, support of the president was no longer an issue of dispute in the primary and the more traditional factors of geography, name ID and funding became key.”
Nessel: Punishing Democrats over Line 5 not a good idea
The Detroit News
November 19, 2019
"Nessel's posts showed she is staking a claim on leadership of the Democratic Party, said John Sellek, CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs."
NBC pegs Kent County as most important 2020 presidential battleground
MLive
November 18, 2019
"In fact, it is West Michigan’s cultural conservatism that has held it closer to Republicans when similar economically successful places like Oakland and Western Wayne Counties flipped many local and state legislative seats to the Democrats,” Sellek said. “But that is changing in Kent, evidenced by both Gretchen Whitmer’s win and the president’s repeat visits there. Kent is a new battleground but one in which Republicans there still have a lot to work with going into 2020.”
John and Dave talk about Tuesday's local and national election results
WILS Morning Wake Up
November 7, 2019
"AVs are just like AARP now, they aren't just for seniors anymore."
What Happens When You Ask MI-10 Voters This?
MIRS News
November 1, 2019
"Who you supported for governor matters to Republican primary voters and that shouldn't be a surprise," Sellek said. "Because for conservatives like these, supporting the gubernatorial candidate who went on to propose a 45-cent gas tax increase while vetoing funding for road repairs, public safety, and opioid recovery raises red flags."
Mackinac Straits tunnel equals safety and jobs
Marquette Mining Journal
October 26, 2019
“55% of Michigan’s propane arrives via Line 5, which is how many families heat their homes during Michigan’s winter wonderland months. Abruptly closing Line 5 and canceling the tunnel infrastructure project, without an affordable alternative energy supply for consumers, means lower thermostats and higher heating bills. The result would be like imposing a “heating tax” on our fellow Michiganians."
Oakland Co. executive Coulter to announce 'future plans'
Detroit News
October 30, 2019
”Political analysts said Coulter would be a strong candidate. "It is a near certainty that (Coulter) will run for executive after recruiting high-level staff, generating positive headlines and even conducting a county-wide listening tour over the last few months," said John Sellek, who owns the public relations firm Harbor Strategic."
Michigan needs line 5 and the construction jobs new tunnel will bring | Guest column
Detroit Free Press
October 23, 2019
“While it is reasonable to carefully consider possible environmental impacts, it is not reasonable to cut off a significant part of our energy supply and stop what could be one of Michigan’s most significant infrastructure projects since the Mackinac Bridge — a project that would actually protect our environment while also protecting family budgets and our economy.
Opinion: Mackinac Straits tunnel means safety, jobs
Traverse City Record Eagle
October 18, 2019
”Michigan must follow the bold example set by Governor Soapy Williams and GOP legislative majorities in the legislature in the 1950s when they worked together to build the iconic Mackinac Bridge.
Amash sees smallest amount of donations. Does it matter?
Gongwer
October 22, 2019
“Because he has never been a huge fundraiser, it is not a surprise he hasn't drawn a lot of contributions from the district," Mr. Sellek said. "The surprise is that his out-of-state fundraising has not exploded by drawing off a national universe of either pro-Libertarian donors or the anti-Trump variety."
Disquiet on the Budget Front
MIRS News
October 22, 2019
”Sellek suggested Whitmer potentially has better cards than some might suppose – if she knows how to play them. “Veto and ad board, obviously,” Sellek said. “But something else that hasn’t played to the governor’s advantage yet—messaging.
Meijer, Slotkin post large cash amounts in Michigan's U.S. House races
Detroit News
October 16, 2019
“Meijer's fundraising prowess should make other candidates nervous, said John Sellek, a longtime GOP consultant and CEO of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs. While many people assumed Meijer could self-finance his campaign by tapping his wealth, he is also locking up support from community leaders, Sellek said.”
Audit: Michigan taxpayers ripped off with questionable $100K MDOT study
Detroit Free Press
October 18, 2019
”the audit "vindicates the ... industry" because it shows that "MDOT sought and accepted input, that its decisions when using that information were theirs alone and that there is zero evidence for sensational claims that the independent report authors were affected in their work."
Slotkin hears from both sides on Trump impeachment inquiry
Detroit News
October 7, 2019
"But Slotkin distanced herself from fellow Michigan Democrats. Slotkin's continued moderation on those issues is a "smart strategy," Sellek said, but "once you jump on board with this issue (impeachment), I think it's nearly impossible to make a separation.”
Want Good Roads, Schools and Government? Raise Taxes, Expert Says
Detroit Today, WDET
October 7, 2019
”What I see, what my observations are, is that they don’t trust government, they just don’t trust that it’s going to get the job done.”
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer targets rural Michigan in bid to sway GOP on budgets
Bridge Magazine
October 2, 2019
"But Whitmer’s latest moves have failed to give her significant leverage after she backed down an earlier shutdown threat and agreed to postpone negotiations over a long-term road funding deal, said Republican strategist John Sellek of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs.
“Republican legislators who voted for the budget can stand up and say, ‘I voted yes. The governor is the one who hurt you. Here’s her phone number. Call her and tell her that,’” said Sellek."
More spending on Michigan roads blunted by rising costs
Detroit News
September 9, 2019
"A new report points to one likely culprit in what Gov. Gretchen Whitmer calls a road funding crisis: The rising cost of road building materials, which has doubled over the past two decades, according to an analysis of national data by the non-partisan Michigan Senate Fiscal Agency."
My Take: Pharmacists, partners successfully combating meth smurfing
Holland Sentinel
September 25, 2019
"We have made incredible progress in the fight against domestic meth, but we can’t let ourselves become complacent" --
Larry Wagenknecht, CEO of the Michigan Pharmacists Association."
How Gretchen Whitmer could fight GOP budget, avoid Michigan government shutdown
Bridge Magazine
September 25, 2019
"While Lansing insiders might applaud a more nuanced approach, vetoing a department budget or large government program could send a strong message that Whitmer is fighting for priorities she was elected to pursue, said John Sellek, a GOP strategist and president of Harbor Strategic Public Affairs.
Hate Michigan roads? Your neighbors’ may be way better.
Bridge Magazine
September 26, 2019
"Sellek said most everyone agrees the roads are bad – but do not trust that a big tax increase will solve the enormity of the problem."
Rest Assured, These Won't Be Issues for Long -- Right?
MIRS Pundit Panel
September 24, 2019
"What the Democrats did do with this fudge-fueled sugar high is limit the Republicans from a clear set of messaging stories coming off the conference," Sellek continued. "But that is cold comfort when they have to return to work tomorrow and face a K-12 budget passed by their own House caucus."
How Michigan Republicans are feeling as the 2020 election draws closer
Stateside, Michigan Radio
September 23, 2019
"Harbor Strategic Public Affairs CEO John Sellek was also at the conference. He joined Stateside to talk about how national shifts in the Republican Party are playing out in Michigan, and what state Republican leaders see as their major challenges and best strategy going into the 2020 presidential election."