Former state senator launches write-in campaign for McCotter's seat

Source: Detroit News

June 1, 2012 at 3:37 pm
Former state senator launches write-in campaign for McCotter's seat
By Marisa Schultz
The Detroit News


A former state senator jumped into the race Friday for the 11th Congressional District, seeking the job of U.S. Rep. Thad McCotter, R-Livonia.

Loren Bennett, a former senator from Canton Township and lieutenant governor GOP nominee in 2002, said he'll launch a write-in campaign, the same week McCotter announced his write-in campaign. The move caps off a stunning political week that began with the Secretary of State's office deeming McCotter ineligible for the Aug. 7 primary ballot with widespread invalid and tampered petition signatures.

"Michigan's 11th Congressional District faces an unusual situation, as its incumbent congressman failed to get enough petition signatures to qualify for the ballot — thus denying Republicans in the district a qualified nominee," says the newly launched Loren Bennett for Congress Facebook page. "Loren Bennett has served as a local official, a state senator and as nominee for lieutenant governor. He is a conservative with a track record of getting things done for the people."

The only Republican who collected enough valid signatures to get on the primary ballot is Kerry Bentivolio, a teacher and political newcomer inspired by the tea party.


Read more: http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20120601/POLITICS01/206010432#ixzz1wZbhCu4B