GOP Lawmaker Questions Marine Veteran’s Democratic Party Affiliation After Senate Win
Rep. Angela Rigas questioned how a decorated 30-year Marine veteran could serve the country while running as a Democrat after Chedrick Greene’s decisive Senate win.
LANSING, MICHIGAN — A Republican state representative faced criticism after questioning on social media how a decorated U.S. Marine veteran could serve in the military while running as a Democrat, following Tuesday’s special election results in the 35th Michigan Senate District.
Rep. Angela Rigas (R-Alto) posted on Facebook early Wednesday morning: “It’s weird to me that one could serve our country and be a democrat,” referring to state Sen.-elect Chedrick Greene, who won the special election by a 20-point margin. Rigas also liked a reply to her comment that read, “Or claim to be Christian and be demoncrat.”
Democratic Response to Comments
The Michigan Democratic Party quickly denounced Rigas’ characterization of Greene’s military service and political affiliation. “Senator-elect Chedrick Greene is a decorated Marine veteran who served our country for 30 years,” said Leah Leszczynski, press secretary for the Michigan Democratic Party.
“He ran for the State Senate to make life more affordable for working families and stand up to Republican chaos. Based on last night’s double-digit margin, we think it would be wise for Rep. Rigas and Republicans to spend more time focusing on delivering for working Michiganders and less time sowing division on the internet,” Leszczynski added in her statement to the Michigan Advance.
Greene’s Military Background
Greene served 30 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, rising to the rank of Sergeant Major during his military career. His service included multiple overseas deployments, according to information about his background.
The special election victory allows Democrats to retain control of the Michigan Senate chamber. Republicans across the state are dealing with the aftermath of the significant electoral loss in the 35th District race.
No Response From Rigas
Rigas did not respond to requests for further comment regarding her Facebook statements about Greene’s military service and Democratic Party affiliation. The Alto representative chairs the House Oversight Subcommittee on Weaponization of State Government.
Greene’s victory speech Tuesday night in Saginaw was emotional, as the Marine veteran celebrated his win in the closely watched special election. The 20-point victory margin exceeded expectations and demonstrated strong Democratic support in the district.
The controversy highlights ongoing tensions between the parties as Republicans assess their electoral performance and messaging strategies following the decisive loss in what had been considered a competitive race.
