DETROIT, MI (WHTC-AM/FM) – The path to a nearly a quarter century of exclusive Democratic control of Michigan’s US Senate representation is apparently clearer on a wintry day in this state.
Former state Supreme Court Chief Justice Bob Young announced that he is withdrawing from the race for the Republican nomination. In a statement, he said that the decision came “after careful consideration and with heartfelt discussions with my family, closest friends and supporters.” Young admitted understanding that “I’m departing from this contest while considered to be the frontrunner,” but he told Frank Beckmann on WJR Radio in Detroit this morning that he didn’t see himself gathering the “financial support to get me where I need to be.”
Young joins St. Joseph Congressman Fred Upton and businesswoman Lena Epstein in opting out of challenging three-term incumbent Debbie Stabenow, leaving political newcomers John James and Sandy Pensler as the leading hopefuls for the GOP bid. Both of the Detroit-area figures may have to face a lack of name and face recognition among rank-and-file Republicans and casual voters if they hope to upend the Lansing Democrat in November.
