"Through my experiences, I've seen first hand the challenges and opportunities facing our community. I'm ready to bring my knowledge and leadership skills to Lansing and advocate for our district's needs."
--Tracy Ruell
State Representative Candidate
Michigan's 100th District
Tracy Ruell Announces Candidacy for Michigan State House District 100
Big Rapids, MI – Local advocate and former candidate Tracy Ruell has officially launched her 2026 campaign for Michigan State Representative, announcing her challenge to Republican incumbent Tom Kunse in the 100th House District. In a passionate message sent to supporters this week, Ruell pledged to bring bold, people-centered leadership back to Lansing.
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“Michigan deserves leaders who fight for real solutions—not distractions, not corporate interests, but people,” Ruell said. “That’s why I’m running for state representative again.”
Ruell’s campaign will focus on tackling the urgent issues impacting Michigan families, including education cuts, healthcare costs, and economic insecurity. Drawing from personal experience, she highlighted the story of her own mother, who is struggling with medical debt despite a lifetime of hard work. “Quality healthcare should never be a privilege—it must be a guarantee,” Ruell said.
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A champion for public education and scientific progress, Ruell is calling for greater investments in students and innovation to ensure a brighter future for Michigan’s economy and communities. She also emphasized the need for government that works for everyone—not just the well-connected.
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“The 100th District is tired of politicians who enrich themselves at taxpayers’ expense,” Ruell stated. “We need leadership that focuses on solutions, not political theater.”
Ruell previously ran for this seat and says her resolve has only deepened. “I’ve listened. I’ve learned. And now I’m more determined than ever to fight for policies that support working families, empower our young people, and build a future where innovation and education thrive.”
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The general election will take place in November 2026.
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Through dedication and deep-rooted connections, Tracy Ruell has emerged as a voice for the marginalized in our community.
Born on a farm in Big Rapids, Tracy witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of PBB contamination on Michigan’s cattle feed, which eventually led her father and uncle to close their family's third generation farm and seek new opportunities.
At 16, Tracy began her journey in the workforce at McDonald’s, where she spent two decades rising through the ranks—leading teams, opening new locations, and managing multiple restaurants. She later took on a leadership roles in operations at Meijer's corporate office including Operations Manager for customer contact.
Alongside her professional achievements, Tracy built a loving family with her husband Rob, whom she married in 1996. Together, they raised two adult children and run their own business, International Insulation Fabricator’s Inc. which has been in service since 1983.
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Tracy’s commitment to the community is unwavering. She has been actively involved in her church, is a member of AAUW, volunteered with Angels of Action, and contributed as a member of the Big Rapids Rotary Club. Now, as a candidate for the State House of Representatives, Tracy is focused on strengthening the local economy. She aims to encourage opportunities for jobs with great wages, protect and fund public education and safeguard healthcare rights. Tracy is ready to roll up her sleeves and work tirelessly for every resident in our district.
MEET TRACY
VALUES
Tracy firmly believes that Life, Liberty and Pursuit of Happiness is the American promise that Michiganders in the 100th district deserve.
As a State Representative, Tracy Ruell is committed to:
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The right to be protected from harm. Signifying the importance of personal safety, well-being, and the ability to live freely.
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The right to freedom, including freedom of thought, speech, and action. It emphasizes individual autonomy and protection from oppressive government control.
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Championing community initiatives: Working for every member of the community and improving the quality of life in the district.
