Crystal Ball Outlook: Leans D
Democratic candidate: Gary Peters, incumbent
Republican candidate: Rocky Raczkowski, former state Representative
Recent Updates from the Crystal Ball
Background:
Rep. Gary Peters, who first entered office on the coattails of Barack Obama in 2008, is up for reelection in this suburb of Detroit. The 9th Congressional District has historically favored Republicans, voting for George W. Bush in 2000 and 2004. Unsurprisingly, the lackluster employment rate in and around Detroit has especially hurt the 9th District, home of the Chrysler Corporation, especially since Obama’s economic plan (which Peters supported) has yet to materialize.
Republican Rocky Raczkowski, who is hoping to unseat Peters, is a self-labeled fiscal conservative and is campaigning on tax relief for the middle class and small businesses.
Nonetheless, Michigan’s ever-lasting recession is the stage for the 2010 election and much depends on how voters perceive the direction of the Presidents economic recovery plan. Though the economy is struggling, many constituents are still willing to support Peters because of his votes towards economic recovery. Knowing that he is a Republican target, Peters has raised over $2 million in the fist quarter of 2010, which already complements his $1.7 million cash-in-hand. This race is Leans Democrat.