Michigan Republican films campaign ad in hazardous wildfire smoke

Michigan state House candidate Laura Perry is facing scrutiny after filming a campaign ad amid hazardous air quality conditions caused by wildfire smoke.

Perry, who is the lone Republican candidate seeking Michigan’s 31st House District this year, posted a campaign video on Thursday showing extras practicing on a soccer field in the background. The hazy conditions from the wildfire smoke are visible in the sky.

In the video, someone behind the camera can be heard asking, “how many previews do we have left?” Another person responded, “the more, the merrier.”

Hazardous air quality in Michigan

Perry’s campaign posted the video on her Facebook account on Thursday at 6:20 p.m. CST. Hours earlier, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) issued a statewide air quality alert. They recommended avoiding strenuous outdoor activities during the alert, which began on Wednesday and later extended into Saturday.

⚠️Statewide Air Quality Alert for July 16 and July 17 ⚠️

Wildfire smoke from Canada is causing Very Unhealthy to Hazardous air quality across Michigan today and Friday.

Limit time outdoors. Check air quality: https://t.co/XkqZd63jlV pic.twitter.com/AYacfuwQaa

— Michigan EGLE (@MichiganEGLE) July 16, 2026

On Thursday, the U.S. Air Quality Index registered air quality readings exceeding 1,000 in areas of southeast Michigan. Readings above 300 are considered hazardous since breathing in the particles could harm respiratory health. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services recommended wearing a KN95 mask if outdoor activity couldn’t be avoided, or to reschedule events.

Perry’s campaign did not respond to a request to comment asking for more details about the shoot and why she filmed it in hazardous conditions.

Democrats question Perry’s judgement

Amber Gantt, a spokesperson for the Michigan House Democratic Fund, released a statement questioning Perry’s judgment during the hazardous conditions.

“Laura Perry claims she learned how to lead on the soccer field, but real leaders don’t disregard serious health warnings and put others at risk for their own personal gain,” Gantt said. “If this is Perry’s idea of leadership, how can Michiganders trust her to put their health, safety, or best interests first in Lansing?”

Perry is seeking the House seat currently held by state Rep. Reggie Miller (D), who is not seeking reelection. A native of Monroe, Mich., Perry works as a high school girl’s soccer coach for St. Mary Catholic Central.