The following are reactions from state and local leaders on Bart Stupak's decision not to seek re-election.

"I was certainly surprised by the decision and I know it's been a challenging year for the congressman and he's been a mainstay in Michigan politics," Mayes said. "It's a tough time to be in government and this have been a tough year for Stupak ... Now it's time for him to begin a new chapter."

--- Jeff Mayes, 69th District Representative


“There comes a point in time when if you’re ready for a change, we have to respect that.”

--- Jim Barcia, 31st District State Senator


“He’s  great campaigner and a great congressman and I’m stunned by all this,” said Kildee, D-Flint. “He’s a tireless person and we’ll miss him very much and Michigan will miss him because he’s a powerful position in Congress for us.”

--- Dale Kildee, 5th District U.S. Representative


These Quotes are courtesy of the Bay City Times.

“Congressman Bart Stupak has done an outstanding job on behalf of the constituents of Michigan’s 1st Congressional District. He has long been a strong voice in Washington on issues such as the protection of the Great Lakes and economic development and has done an excellent job as Chair of the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations – working on behalf of consumers not only in Michigan but also throughout the country. We thank Congressman Stupak for his 18 years of service as the 1st District’s Congressman and we wish him well in his future endeavors. He will be sorely missed.”

--- Mark Brewer, Michigan Democratic Party Chair
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by The Bay City Times
Tuesday March 31, 2009, 3:56 PM

A plan to protect consumers from winter utility shutoffs passed its first test in the state House on Tuesday.

State Rep. Jeff Mayes, D-Bay City, and Sen. Jim Barcia, D-Bay City, announced the House approved a package of bills that will protect Michigan residents by reforming the way Michigan utilities handle shutoffs. The plan now moves to the Senate.

"This comprehensive plan will ensure that Michigan residents are not left out in the cold," said Mayes, chairman of the House Energy and Technology Committee. "We've seen too many tragedies already. I will not stand idly by while our residents are forced to suffer through another winter at risk of having their utilities shut off without proper notification."

The plan bans winter utility shutoffs for seniors and low-income individuals who have sought assistance paying their bills, and bans the use of electric limiters for senior citizens and those with a known medical emergency.

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The following are reactions from state and local leaders on Barack Obama's selection of Joe Biden as his running mate.

"Joe Biden's been a national figure for years. He brings a great deal of defense and foreign policy experience to the ticket. I think he's someone who can relate to Michigan voters... I think he's, over the years, demonstrated an understanding of the needs of working families."

--- Jeff Mayes, 69th District Representative


"I think he was a good choice. I think he strengthens the ticket in terms of the legislative experience that he brings... I think he's going to be a tough campaigner and an asset to Senator Obama."

--- Jim Barcia, 31st District State Senator


"I've known him since he first came to Congress... He serves on the Foreign Relations Committee and is considered the expert on the world and our position with various countries and regions around the world. I think it will be a great ticket. I'm very happy about the selection."

--- Dale Kildee, 5th District U.S. Representative


"This is a terrific choice. Joe Biden understands the challenges facing our country at home and abroad, and his long history of bipartisanship in the Senate will be a welcomed asset. He will be a tireless and enthusiastic partner for Senator Obama in the campaign and in the White House."

--- Carl Levin, U.S. Senator

These Quotes are courtesy of the Bay City Times.

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