Lessenberry Talks about Governor's Race

Lt. Governor John Cherry's abrupt departure from the race for governor could impact candidates in both parties.

"The implications of Cherry pulling out are big not only for the Democrats, which is pretty obvious, but also the Republicans because while they're not settled on a nominee and they have three major players, they were all gearing up to run against the Cherry-Granholm administration. Now, they can't do that," said Wayne State University Professor Jack Lessenberry.

Detroit Pistons President Joe Dumars name is being circulated as a possible candidate in Democratic circles in Lansing. Lessenberry says there's not a chance Dumars will plunge into politics.

"I spent an hour and a half with Joe Dumars in November just talking about his life and talking about everything. I can't imagine he'd be interested in this. I mean, if you think losing nine games in a row with the Pistons is tough, try politics," Lessenberry said.

Democratic House Speaker Andy Dillon will kick-off a Web site this week exploring a bid to run for governor.

"Andy Dillon is now the automatic front runner unless he takes himself out. He's... the best known candidate. He was probably leaning towards getting in anyway," said Lessenberry.

Lessenberry doesn't see Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano giving up that job, which he would have to do to run for governor.

Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero wants to run, and state Representative Alma Wheeler Smith would also like to become governor.

"She's been in the state Senate. She's a state rep now. She has a very, far reaching tax plan that would raise taxes on most rich people, give tax breaks to poor people, close the budget deficit, and some people are saying she's the only Democrat in the race," Lessenberry said.

State Senator Hansen Clarke, who is term limited, has filed paperwork to run for governor.

This year's races for governor and other state offices will result in significant changes in the faces of Michigan politics.

"Everybody in the executive branch, 30 out of 38 in the state Senate have to leave because of term limits. And so, we're going to have at this time of great crisis a whole new crop of leaders, and it's going to be very important who the people of Michigan select," said Lessenberry.