David M. Knezek Jr. (born August 13, 1986) is an American politician who represents the 8th district on the Wayne County Commission. He is a member of the Democratic Party. Prior to his appointment to the Wayne County Commission in 2020, he served as a member of the Michigan Senate from 2015 to 2018 and as a member of the Michigan House of Representatives from 2013 to 2014. Knezek was defeated in the August 2018 Michigan Senate District 5 Democratic Primary by dark horse candidate Betty Jean Alexander who reported spending nothing on the campaign.

David Knezek
Member of the Michigan Senate
from the 5th district
In office
January 1, 2015 – January 9, 2019
Preceded byTupac Hunter
Succeeded byBetty Jean Alexander
Member of the Michigan House of Representatives
from the 11th district
In office
January 1, 2013 – December 31, 2014
Preceded byDavid Nathan
Succeeded byJulie Plawecki
Personal details
Born (1986-08-13) August 13, 1986 (age 38)
Dearborn Heights, Michigan, U.S.
Political partyDemocratic
EducationUniversity of Michigan–Dearborn (B.A.)
WebsiteOfficial website
Military service
Allegiance United States
Branch/service United States Marine Corps
Years of service2006–2012
Rank Sergeant
Unit1st Battalion, 24th Marines
2nd Battalion, 24th Marines
3rd Battalion, 24th Marines
Battles/warsIraq War
AwardsNavy Achievement Medal
Navy Unit Commendation (2)
National Defense Service Medal
Iraq Campaign Medal (3)
Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (2)

Education and early career

edit

Knezek has a bachelor's degree in political science from the University of Michigan-Dearborn.[1] He then served in the U.S. military as a scout sniper platoon member in the United States Marine Corps, completing two tours of duty in Iraq. He was honorably discharged in 2014, having risen to the rank of sergeant.[2]

References

edit
  1. ^ Michigan Manual 2015-2016. Lansing, MI: The Legislative Service Bureau. 2016. p. 154.
  2. ^ "About Rep. Knezek". Michigan House of Representatives. Archived from the original on December 17, 2013. Retrieved December 16, 2013.
edit