Tanis for Congress

Principles Over Politics. Country Over Party.

Election Night Statement: “I want to thank everyone who voted for me. Against all odds — starting late, accepting no money, running against a multi-term incumbent — I’m grateful for the thousands of people who turned out to cast their vote for a return to a better Republican Party. There is definitely a desire for traditional principles, a more civil discourse, and West Michigan values.

“It’s obvious there’s much more work to do, and I look forward to partnering with all those who continue to fight for the ideals of our country, where all are created equal with the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“Congratulations to Bill Huizenga on his primary victory. I will be watching him closely if he’s returned to Congress in November and will consider whether to mount a more comprehensive campaign in two years.”

Phil TanisI’m Phil Tanis, a lifelong Republican and former mayor of Holland. I’m not running to raise money or gain power — I’m standing to give voters a choice. Our politics have lost their balance and our representatives their voice. It’s time to restore civility, integrity, and genuine public service to Michigan’s 4th District.

I’m not running a traditional campaign. I won’t accept donations, seek endorsements, or hire consultants. I simply want to offer a choice — a chance for thoughtful, moderate Republicans (and anyone else) to register their belief that our democracy works best when we work together.

I’m not willing to accept the current state of our great country, now divided into warring tribes that see each other as enemies instead of neighbors. I’m frustrated by leaders in politics and the media who profit from division instead of focusing on the real challenges facing American families.

And I’m fearful that if we cannot come together, we risk losing what makes this nation great — the conviction that we are all created equal and endowed with unalienable rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

I’m standing in protest against a political culture that rewards loyalty to money and power over loyalty to principle. I stand so voters can voice their dissatisfaction with a system that has stopped listening.

That’s what this candidacy is about. It’s not a campaign — it’s an act of protest against the current state of affairs and a commitment to the United States as a democracy of the people, by the people, and for the people.

If you believe thoughtful, constitutional, principled Republicanism still has a place in our nation, then I invite you to stand with me – and vote for me, Philip Tanis, on August 4.