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Tracy grew up on a third‑generation dairy farm that went through the PBB crisis, and she watched her family lose everything through no fault of their own. That experience shaped how she sees people who are struggling. Tracy knows what it feels like to work hard and still lose your livelihood. She also knows that when people are given real opportunities, they can rise to them.

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Tracy’s life mirrors the experiences of many families in the 100th District. She knows what it’s like to go without healthcare, to drive long distances for work, and to juggle childcare and groceries. She and her husband have kept their small business running since 1983, weathering recessions, regulations, and the everyday challenges of rural Michigan. One of her favorite places is Ole’s, the 1800s family homestead she helps her mother and sister maintain.

She knows what it means to live paycheck to paycheck, and what it takes to be fiscally responsible and make sacrifices to move your life forward. Tracy has seen how real opportunities (when people can actually access them) change lives. And she understands the value of public education, job opportunities, and community organizations because they’ve made a difference in her own life and those she loves. Tracy is a member of the Big Rapids Rotary, AAUW, Farm Bureau and The Farmer’s Union.

Tracy knows real‑world challenges because she’s lived them. She went from a 16‑year‑old McDonald’s employee to managing multiple stores, then led operations at Meijer. She understands exactly how Lansing’s choices show up at home, on the farm, and in small businesses.