Provided Photo State Rep. Greg Markkanen, of Hancock, has announced Sarah Blakely as his new legislative aide and constituent services liaison.

LANSING — State Representative Greg Markkenen added former TV6 morning news anchor Sarah Blakely to his legislative staff, Markkenen’s office announced in an Oct. 11 release. Blakely is now a legislative aide and constituent services liaison, the release states.

Blakely was formerly a news anchor at WLUC in Marquette and covered U.P. politics during her time as a journalist, the release states. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Purdue University in 2012 and currently lives in Ishpeming.

“I am very familiar with issues people across the U.P. are facing through my experiences in the region,” Blakely is quoted as saying, “and I am ready to help them with their questions and concerns. The U.P. has truly become my home.”

On Sept. 22, 2021, Blakely announced her departure from TV6, in a social media post, citing station owner Gray Television’s vaccine mandate and sexual harassment from former co-worker Shawn Householder–and subsequent inaction from the station to address the issue.

According to media/news company Marquette today, Householder had a warrant out for his arrest following a breaking and entering charge filed on September 3, according to Marquette’s 96th District Court.

Blakely’s departure from the Negaunee-based television station apparently has not offset her career, or her service to the Upper Peninsula.

“Sarah is a tremendous addition to our team and an outstanding resource for people across Baraga, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Marquette and Ontonagon counties,” said Markkanen, of Hancock. “My office is always available to speak with people, hear their concerns and go to work for issues that matter to them.”