By Rick Pluta, Michigan Public Radio Network
LANSING, MI – Michigan Republicans may try to boost their clout by holding a closed-party presidential primary a week before the Super Tuesday elections next year. The plan must still be formally approved by GOP leaders in August.
Michigan Republicans plan to hold their presidential primary either February 28th or March 6th of next year. Only people who declare themselves Republicans would be eligible to vote in it.
The state GOP's policy committee unanimously adopted the plan during a conference call.
Michigan Republicans risk losing half their national convention delegates if they hold a primary before Super Tuesday voting on March 6th, but some GOP leaders say the state could reap political rewards by going early.
The proposal must still be approved by the Michigan Republican State Central Committee at its August meeting, and then adopted by the Legislature and approved by Governor Rick Snyder. Michigan Democrats plan to hold closed-party caucuses in May.
President Barack Obama is expected to be the only contender for the Democratic nomination.