KALAMAZOO, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – The race for the Democratic nomination against Congressman Fred Upton now has another Democratic throwing his hat into the ring.
Former YMCA National Health Officer Dr. Matt Longjohn has announced he is going to challenge the 16-term incumbent from St. Joseph.
Longjohn is the fifth Democrat to run and is the only Democrat planning to enlist the services of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee. According to his website, Longjohn strongly believes that fighting disease is only part of a doctor’s job.
“To truly be successful, physicians need to help patients have a high quality of life, which means ensuring people have access to health care, a safe and healthy environment, a good education and the opportunity for jobs that pay a living wage. Matt will take this same comprehensive approach to Congress, where he will fight for affordable health care, clean air and water, strong early childhood programs, public schools, community colleges and good-paying job”
Upton told WHTC News that he is focused on his day job and his family. He has not said what at his plans are for 2018.
“These campaigns always come third and you never like to start a campaign prematurely. No we’ve not made a decision as to what we’re gonna do in 2018, particularly if we run for the Senate or not. I continue to be flattered by people who have reached out suggesting that I would be a strong candidate. We’re gonna do some due diligence and figure this out in the next couple weeks or so. We don’t have any fixed time table, but campaigns do start early, like it or not.”
Kid Rock released a statement last week that he is running for the U.S. Senate, but has yet filed the necessary paperwork.
