In 1983, Stanley was appointed to the Flint City Council representing the 2nd ward being reelected until his election to the office of Mayor of the City of Flint defeating the incumbent
Matthew S. Collier. Stanley was elected to three terms as Mayor defeating (in order) future mayor
Don Williamson (1995) and City Councilor Scott Kincaid (1999). He was
recalled in 2002 due to the city's shaky financial condition and a state appointed Financial Manager was appointed after he left office. In 2004, Stanley was elected to the Genesee County Board of Commissioners, 2nd District. In his second term as Commissioner, Stanley was selected to be chairman of the Board of Commissioners. In November 2008, Stanley was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives from the 34th District. == Personal life and death ==