Rumors Abound Regarding Stabenow Challenger

With only two declared candidates in the field, former Kent County Judge Randy Hekman and GOP activist Peter Konetchy, Republicans continue to entertain thoughts regarding potential challengers to incumbent U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Lansing).

Betsy DeVos, longtime GOP powerbroker and wife of once-gubernatorial candidate Dick DeVos, has all but ruled-out a run according to sources. Rob Steele, who lost to incumbent US Representative John Dingell (D-Dearborn) in 2010, and businessman Tim Leuliette are contemplating the same. Meanwhile, most eyes appear to be focused on former US Rep. Peter Hoekstra.

The 18-year veteran of the US House from Michigan’s 2^nd District and runner-up in last year’s Republican gubernatorial primary to now Governor Rick Snyder, Mr. Hoekstra is expected to announce his decision in the next two weeks. Most insiders predict that the field of candidates will likely clear if Mr. Hoekstra decides to run.

Among those waiting is former Michigan Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land who has expressed her interest in running; however, has also confirmed that she would defer to Hoekstra. Others that would be viewed as top-tier candidates, such as current US Representatives Dave Camp (R-Midland), and Mike Rogers (R-Brighton) are out of the conversation given the GOP’s renewed control of the US House and their ascension to powerful committee chairmanships.

posted by PAA Online , Friday, April 8, 2011 9:53 AM
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