Photo is property of the candidate and in no way represents an endorsement by the Department of Defense or Indiana National Guard.

Michael Stinfer, a 34-year-old Warsaw resident and registered Republican, submitted his documentation to the State today to run as an independent for the State Representative District 22 seat.

Stinfer would be running against Republican Curt Nisly and Democrat David Kolbe at the November election.

Stinfer publicly announced his intent to run earlier this month (see related story), saying, “I’m running because I believe our community deserves a true conservative; one who has been on the front lines for freedom and our community, to uphold the Constitution. I think we, the people, are ready for positivity and not the usual gridlock that is in Washington, which has now made its way here. Indiana needs another proven, common sense leader who takes us forward and not two steps back.”

He’s since been out gathering signatures for his petition to get on the ballot. He’s also requested debates with Nicly and Kolbe.

Stinfer is a graduate of Warsaw High School and holds a bachelor’s degree in business management from Grace College. He deployed with First Marines in support of the Global War on Terrorism and participated in combat operations for the initial invasion of Iraq in 2003. In 2007 he joined the Indiana Army National Guard.