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HUD Sec. Ben Carson tours Lansing development with congressman fighting to keep seat

Steve Carmody
/
Michigan Radio

In the middle of a tight re-election campaign, Michigan Congressman Mike Bishop took time Thursday to escort a top Trump administration official around a Lansing development project.

A recent poll showed Republican Mike Bishop holding a slim lead over Democratic challenger Elissa Slotkin.  Slotkin has raised more money than Bishop in the traditionally Republican district.

Bishop denied that this week’s media event with U.S. Department  of Housing and Urban Development Secretary Ben Carson was intended to give his campaign a boost.

“I love to have Mr. Carson here.  He’s a Michigander.  We love to have him back,” Bishop told reporters. “It has nothing to do with the election.  This is all about Lansing.”

Bishop and Carson toured the renovated Knapp building in downtown Lansing.   A federal program helped turn the building into a mix of residential and office space.

Carson says he has had similar events involving Democratic lawmakers.

“Because it really doesn’t matter to me,” says Carson, “What matters to me is are we getting the job done.”

Bishop says he would campaign with President Trump if he came to Michigan to stump for Republican candidates. 

“I have no reservation whatsoever in agreeing with the president when I agree with him,” says Bishop, adding, “And I disagree with the president when I don’t agree with him.”

Steve Carmody has been a reporter for Michigan Public since 2005. Steve previously worked at public radio and television stations in Florida, Oklahoma and Kentucky, and also has extensive experience in commercial broadcasting.
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