| Schauer revs up bid for Congress |
| Posted by () on Jul 10 2008 at 7:24 PM |
Schauer revs up bid for Congress
Nick Schirripa
The Enquirer
Talk of state Sen. Mark Schauer making a run at Michigan's 7th Congressional District seat started about a year ago, and his campaign to challenge incumbent U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg, R-Tipton, started shortly after.
On Wednesday, Schauer, D-Bedford Township, formally announced his candidacy in a rally at Western Michigan University's aviation college at W.K. Kellogg Airport. The rally was Schauer's sixth in a series of stops throughout the district.
"It's a kickoff to send a signal that the campaign has shifted into overdrive," Schauer said. "The feedback we've gotten has been very positive, and what I've heard is the public is hungry for practical solutions, for someone who has a proven record of solving problems rather than defending a narrow ideology."
Schauer addressed some 30 supporters against a backdrop of the airport, aviation school and the Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, which the senator proudly reminded people he helped save from elimination three years ago as part of a bipartisan effort.
The base was one of several bases nationwide considered for mothballing in 2005, but the federal Base Closure and Realignment Commission spared it at the urging of several elected officials, including former U.S. Rep. Joe Schwarz, R-Battle Creek; state Rep. Mike Nofs, R-Battle Creek; and former Battle Creek Mayor John Godfrey.
One of the supporters at the Wednesday rally, Josi Roberts of Battle Creek, said she supports Schauer for his willingness to serve everyone fairly and equally.
"First and foremost, he's a public servant," she said. "Mark is inclusive. No matter who you are or what problems you have, you can tell Mark.
"He's just a good person, and I just love him."
When it comes to important issues — energy, the war in Iraq, jobs and the economy — Schauer said he has a different vision than the incumbent congressman.
"His name is Tim Walberg, in case you didn't know that," Schauer added, jabbing at his opponent whom he said is out of touch with residents.
"I'll fight for Michigan businesses, Michigan workers, Michigan families, and turn our economy around one job at a time," he said.