Politics

Ex-Gov. William Milliken Backs Republican Snyder, Democrat Peters

September 12, 2014, 11:47 AM by  Allan Lengel


Gov. William Milliken

Former Michigan Gov. William Milliken, a moderate Republican who was very popular among the general electorate, is splitting his vote this year.

Milliken, governor from 1969-83,  announced recently that he was endorsing Republican Gov. Rick Snyder for re-election.

On Friday, senate hopeful Rep. Gary Peters, a Democrat, announced that Milliken endorses him.

In a statement, Milliken says:

As Michigan prepares to elect a new United States Senator this fall, the stakes for our state and our nation are very high.  We face very serious threats to our national security, to our economic well-being and to our environment.  These threats will require public officials who are willing to put aside partisan differences and work with one another for the common good on some very complex public policy issues.

The election here in Michigan is particularly important because we are replacing a senator, Carl Levin, who was able to work effectively across the political aisle on critical issues such as national defense.  We need a replacement who can continue that ability to overcome partisan politics to find common ground and deliver for Michigan.

I have decided that the candidate who is best prepared to be that voice of moderation is Congressman Gary Peters. In his public career as a state legislator and as a Congressman he has shown an ability and willingness to rise above partisan bickering and search for a nonpartisan solution to the very real problems we face.



Leave a Comment:

Photo Of The Day