State Rep. John Espinoza has spent a lifetime in service to his community and his nation. As a State Representative, his top priorities include:
- Stopping the flow of Canadian and out-of-state trash into Michigan.
- Protecting our Great Lakes from corporations that want to bottle them up and sell them off for profit.
- Protecting Michigan’s working families from corporate crooks who threaten workers’ pensions and 401(k)s.
Work History
Growing up in a family of migrant workers, Rep. Espinoza worked the sugar beets of Michigan's Thumb as a young man.
He joined the Croswell Police Department and later became a deputy with the Sanilac County Sheriff's Department.
He also worked as a teacher with the Carsonville-Port Sanilac School District.
Government Experience
Rep. Espinoza was elected to one term on the Sanilac County Board of Commissioners and served for two terms on the Croswell City Council.
He also worked on the staff of former Congressman Jim Barcia as the Military Affairs and Community Outreach Liaison.
Military Service
At 18, Rep. Espinoza enlisted in the Army and was immediately recognized for his leadership skills in basic training.
He was shipped off to Vietnam, where he earned several awards and decorations for his actions in combat.
He left the Army in 1971, and re-enlisted in 1977. He eventually rose to the rank of First Sergeant and served during the First Gulf War.
He retired from the Army in 1995 with 20 years of service.
Education
Rep. Espinoza attended Croswell-Lexington High School.
He holds an Associate's Degree from Central Texas College and a Bachelor of Science from the University of the State of New York.
He earned his teaching certification from Saginaw Valley State University.
Family
Rep. Espinoza and his wife, Mary, have been married since 1969. They have three adult sons, James, Christopher and Daniel, and six grandchildren, Carissa, Elijah, Olivia, Ian, Isaac and Gavin.