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Scott recall results to be formally certified today

Republican Paul Scott (51st District)
Photo courtesy of Scott's official website
Republican Paul Scott (51st District)

State Representative Paul Scott’s recall is about to become official. The Board of State Canvassers is set to formally certify the November 8th election results that showed a majority of Genesee County voters wanted Republican Scott out of office. Before Scott, the last time a state lawmaker was recalled was in 1983.

“Michigan House Republicans say they aren't going to challenge the election results and will focus on the election to replace Scott, scheduled for Feb. 28. Political parties have about two weeks to nominate candidates. Scott is ineligible to run,” the Associated Press reports.

Interestingly enough, February 28th is the same day that Michigan holds its Republican presidential primary. So, it’s likely there will be heavy GOP turnout to the polls that day.

Recalls Across the State Continue

Paul Scott was not the only state lawmaker to be targeted in a recall campaign. But, backers of other recall efforts were not able to get enough signatures to get their recall language on the November ballot. As the Detroit Free Press reports:

Scott was one of several dozen lawmakers of both parties (in addition to Gov. Snyder) targeted for recall in the aftermath of sweeping changes to Michigan tax law and budget priorities approved by Republican majorities earlier this year. Organizers of the GOP recalls objected to cuts in state aid to schools, the extension of the state income tax to some pension income and a $1.8 billion cut in the state tax on business activity. Democratic lawmakers were targeted for attempting to block what Republicans describe as a long overdue reform of Michigan governance that was needed to create a climate conducive to job growth.

Unintended Consequences

Backers of the Scott recall, including the Michigan Education Association (MEA), might not have taken into account, however, the unintended consequences of kicking Scott out of office. I spoke earlier with Michigan Public Radio's Lansing Bureau Chief Rick Pluta about whether or not the MEA had fully prepared itself for a Republican retaliation to the recall.

Zoe Clark is Michigan Public's Political Director. In this role, Clark guides coverage of the state Capitol, elections, and policy debates.
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