Possible Clues:

• Unpredictable man taking hold of state
• Maintain boys about to become independent-minded
• Michael is about to claim to be an independent
• One who ignores the party line
• Michael protected a very short person who does not conform
• Nonconformist minister's first to state number escaping from prison
• Unconventional greeting by Frenchman a strain
• Nonconformist fellow touring state
• Loose cannon
• It's just like Mike to go around State formally providing the free spirit