By Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-878648.mp3
LANSING, MI –
Lieutenant Governor John Cherry has dropped his bid for governor and, in the process, has shaken up the race for the Democratic nomination.
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With the support of Governor Granholm and union leaders, Cherry was considered the man to be beat for the Democratic nomination. But many polls showed Cherry losing to any of several Republican candidates. In a written statement, Cherry says the decision came down to money - he could not fundraise enough cash to sustain a credible campaign.
Democratic consultant Joe DiSano says Cherry was simply acknowledging the reality of his situation.
"I think it's a good thing for Democrats," he says. "I think it's a painful day for Democrats, but I do think it allows the Democratic Party to move on from the Granholm years."
With Cherry out of the race, more Democrats are getting in, or at least considering it. Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero and House Speaker Andy Dillon say they will make decisions on entering the race before the end of January.