French looks to turn District 37 strong, friendly, purple

CONTRIBUTED BY

MICHELLE FRENCH

CHAMBERS
COUNTY — Threats to public education, lack of access to healthcare for Alabamians and protecting voter access are the issues catapulting Michelle French to run for the Alabama State House of Representatives, District 37.

“My mother, Myra, often said that her children were living proof that if you want an education in this country, you can get one,” French said. “The threats to public education and the astronomical costs of a university education are threatening the ability for Alabamians to get ahead.”

A Roanoke native, French is a partner in PolitiBox, based in Birmingham. She has been a small business owner and an active volunteer in diverse non-profit organizations where she shared her communication design skills.

“I have bragged to people around the world about Alabama’s community college and technical school system — which should always be a priority to protect, promote and expand,” she said. “To attract economic opportunity, we need to prioritize education and the health of our people.”

French will vie for a seat held by retiring Republican Bob Fincher since 2014.

“I am dedicated to my constituents and want to combine the ‘red’ and ‘blue’ on the issues that affect everyone,” she said. “I hope to turn this district a strong and friendly purple.”

Like many, after graduating from Handley High School and Auburn University, French left Alabama to pursue her career. After attaining an MA from London College of Communications, French returned to Roanoke, settling in the family home, eager to share her experiences. She is married to Dwight Cahela, a retired Master Sgt., USAF, who is currently employed by Auburn University.

Since returning, she has been active in many community initiatives and activities. She participated in Leadership Randolph County, Master Gardeners, Barktoberfest to benefit the Randolph County Animal Shelter and currently serves as a volunteer, an advisor and new boardmember for Bridging the Gap.

In addition to representing District 37 on the State Democratic Executive Committee (SDEC), French is co-chair of the Randolph County Blues — the Democratic Party of Randolph County, Chair of the Congressional District 3 County Chairs group, and has been an active volunteer for Democratic candidates.

French welcomes conversations with her neighbors in Randolph, Chambers and Lee counties and can be reached at: electmichellefrench@gmail.com and accepts donations on ActBlue.org.