Michigan's First Congressional District Moves to Tossup
The news that Bart Stupak will be retiring this year spells more disaster for Michigan Democrats who were so arrogant in their aspirations for party dominion only a year ago.
CQ Politics has moved the district to tossup, the second congressional district that it has designated as such in Michigan that has a Democrat incumbent. The other, of course, was the 7th district currently represented by Mark Schauer.
Dan Benishek was the main GOP challenger who emerged in opposition to Stupak in light of the Democrat healthcare bill. Here is what he had to say about the speculation on who may replace him as the GOP frontrunner in the Petoskey News-Review:
“Ever since Bart Stupak decided not to seek re-election, the professional politicians in Michigan have been salivating. At a time when the battle looked very challenging, we worked hard, raised money and built up momentum so powerful that Stupak felt he couldn’t compete. Now they want to jump in front of the parade. They weren’t here in our fight when the fight was tough. And they won’t have the courage to take a stand when the fight in Washington gets tough.”
I could agree with Mr. Benishek more; the Republican establishment candidates won’t have the courage to do anything when they get to Washington. Still, it’s not clear to me that he is a genuine constitutionalist. Additionally, it’s not clear whether or not he’d support the Sanctity of Life Act.
Update 4/15/2010
After inquiring with regard to whether or not Mr. Benishek would support the Sanctity of Life Act, he responded to me with this message:
Apologies for late response. Answer is YES. That would be YES PERIOD. Thank you for your question. I hope you continue to follow along. Thanks, Dan