Derek if a lifelong Michigan resident that has spent the last 10 years in Newaygo.  Derek is married to his better half, Andrea and together, they have 3 children and 3 grandchildren, all in Michigan.

Derek learned from his parents & one of the greatest Presidents of the 20^th century, Ronald Reagan, the importance of God, Conservatism, and our Constitution.

Shortly after moving to Newaygo from Grand Rapids, Derek become frustrated with local republican party.  The cumbersome process of finding ways to volunteer, get candidate yard signs and literature prompted Derek get involved in politics.  When another great President, Donald Trump endorsed the Precinct Delegate strategy, Derek was hooked and found another way to get involved as a Precinct Delegate for Big Prairie Township.

Derek is also the Treasurer for the Newaygo County Republican Party with a focus on growing the party within the county of Newaygo in addition to helping NCRP become a leader in 2^nd Congressional District 2.