Spotlight On Representative Phil Skaggs

Representative Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids) is serving his second term in the Michigan House of Representatives.

Biography 

He began his professional life as a professor of history at Goucher College, Grand Valley State University, and Aquinas College. After leaving academia, he managed numerous campaigns, worked for an environmental organization, and served as legislative director for two state representatives. Prior to his election to the House, Representative Skaggs served on the Kent County Commission and the East Grand Rapids City Commission.

District 

He represents the 80^th Michigan House District, which includes Kentwood, East Grand Rapids, Cascade Township, and parts of the City of Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Township.

Committees

• • Agriculture
  • Communications and Technology

We asked Representative Skaggs a few questions to learn more about him:

• • What’s your favorite travel destination outside of Michigan?
    • Domestic – New York City: Broadway, art museums, dining.
    • International – Catalonia: Barcelona, Wineries, Pyrenees Mountains.
  • What’s your favorite hobby other than politics?
    • A – Hiking with friends and family, especially in National Parks, of which my favorite is Pictured Rocks Lakeshore.
  • What did you want to be when you were a kid?
    • A – A professional hockey player, preferably with the Detroit Red Wings or Montreal Canadiens (I was a big Guy Lafleur fan).
  • What’s your favorite game to play or sport to watch and/or play?
    • A – Michigan Wolverine football (the last true National Champion) and the kids’ water polo and swim meets.