Republican Nominee Doug Lloyd Discusses His Vision for Michigan’s Attorney General Role
As Michigan gears up for the upcoming midterm elections in November, the focus is on electing a new Attorney General, with Dana Nessel stepping down due to term limits. The election has sparked interest and debate as candidates present their vision. Michigan Public is providing comprehensive coverage with interviews from the candidates.
Doug Lloyd, the Republican nominee, currently serves as the Prosecuting Attorney for Eaton County. A former president of the Prosecuting Attorneys Association of Michigan (PAAM), Lloyd shared his insights and motivations with Stateside host April Baer.
April Baer: What inspired you to run for the state Attorney General position?
Doug Lloyd: I’ve dedicated 30 years to prosecution, serving as Eaton County’s elected prosecutor since 2013. This role has been about protecting and ensuring safety for our community. Witnessing the office’s shift to partisanship over the past eight years, I decided to run to restore its accountability and integrity.
AB: How do your experiences in Eaton County relate to the broader duties of a state attorney general?
DL: Both prosecutors and the attorney general manage over 500 constitutional and statutory duties daily. In 2003, I established the Economic Crime Unit in Eaton County, tackling consumer protection and organized retail theft. We’ve addressed construction fraud and scams targeting seniors, recovering $10 million for our community. My background also includes four years in general law, handling civil matters akin to those of an attorney general’s office.
AB: What would be your primary objectives in your first 100 days if elected?
DL: Prioritizing public safety is key, which is why I’m endorsed by numerous law enforcement officers and organizations. Partnering with local law enforcement to address community-impacting cases is crucial. Another focus is combating organized retail crime to help businesses and keep consumer costs low. Ensuring regulatory consistency can prevent businesses from leaving Michigan. Lastly, I aim to enforce laws without bias, unlike my opponent who selectively enforces them.
AB: Prosecutors often set priorities; how do you view your opponent Eli Savit’s approach to decriminalization due to resource constraints?
DL: Prosecutors evaluate cases individually rather than ignoring entire categories of crimes. This method ensures community safety, contrasting with my opponent’s broad non-enforcement approach.
AB: What are your thoughts on state versus federal regulation of Michigan’s data centers?
DL: Many Michiganders desire local involvement in business decisions and transparency in transactions. The Attorney General’s office can play a significant role in this. Concerns include water usage by data centers and its impact on local resources, issues that need addressing.
AB: How would you manage resources and communicate the Attorney General’s needs to the legislature?
DL: Effective communication with the legislature is vital, whether in hearings or informal discussions. It’s about understanding budgetary constraints and optimizing resources to serve taxpayers best, aligning office operations with available state funding.
Editor’s note: Quotes have been edited for clarity and brevity. Listen to the full interview audio at the top of this page.
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