http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20101023/OPINION01/10230303/1...

Congressional landscape presents contrasts

October 23, 2010

Mid-Michigan's two congressional races are a study in contrasts.

In the 7th District, voters get a replay of the intense contest two years ago as incumbent Democrat Mark Schauer faces a challenge from Republican Tim Walberg, whom Schauer unseated in 2008. It will be one of the hardest-fought races in the state.

In the 8th District, Republican Mike Rogers, who is seeking his sixth term in the House, is challenged by little-known, underfunded Democrat Lance Enderle, who stepped up after the party's original candidate bailed out of the race.

In the 7th District, voters should return Mark Schauer for a second term. The Battle Creek Democrat, whose district includes Eaton County, is a strong voice for his district and the state.

Schauer calls himself a "pro-business, practical Democrat" who has a full-time staffer devoted to economic development. Schauer advocates for manufacturers. He was rated a centrist by the National Journal and has not been afraid to buck the party line. For example, he supports continuing George W. Bush's income tax cuts until the economy is stronger.

He also pushes for a multi-lateral look at all provisions of trade agreements, pushing to repeal provisions that have cost Michigan jobs.

Walberg is an extreme conservative whose polarizing views won't serve mid-Michigan well. Schauer is a moderate fighting for jobs and an improved quality of life. He's the right choice.

In the 8th District, Democrats have barely managed to field a candidate, leaving the region's voters with the likelihood that Mike Rogers will claim an easy victory.

Democrat Lance Enderle deserves kudos for stepping in after Kande Ngalamulume dropped out. Enderle says he volunteered because he did not believe Rogers should get a free pass. That's admirable. But his party isn't providing the support needed to challenge a decade-long incumbent. Rogers would better represent the region if he applied some moderation.

To his credit, he voted for the auto bailout and favors efforts to hinder Chinese currency manipulation. And he can point to a list of bills he's written or co-sponsored with Democrats, although many of them do not involve the difficult issues where the nation most needs leaders who collaborate effectively.

Since the Democrats have all but surrendered the 8th District, Rogers could afford to leave rancorous partisanship behind. He could, if he desired, become a statesman-like lawmaker who is able to work across the aisle on the most difficult issues. Mid-Michigan would be better served if he did so.

An LSJ editorial