Reflecting a surprisingly strong showing at the polls by Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, area GOP candidates in legislative races won with the greatest of ease.
Incumbent Republican Congressman Fred Upton won his 6th District seat in Washington for a 16th two-year term by handily trouncing Democratic challenger Paul Clements by a 65 to 29 percent margin. Libertarian candidate Lorence Wenke picked up other 6 percent.
Closer to home, incumbent Republican 80th District State Rep. Mary Whiteford cruised to victory with about 68 percent of the total vote, compared to the almost 30% by Democratic sacrificial lamb John Andrysiak of Watson Township.
Democrat Steve Shoemaker of Leighton Township was swamped by Republican newcomer Steve Johnson of Wayland Township in the contest for 72nd District State Representative. Johnson was polling at about 70 percent to Shoemaker’s 29% in Allegan County, but in Gaines Township and Kentwood he fared much better and finished with 41 percent to Johnson’s 59%.
PHOTOS: Steve Johnson Mary Whiteford
Way to go voters, electing Upton who only has his best interest at heart. Another career politician and member of the Washington swamp.