Oakland Co. GOP Chair Thinks Michigan Primary Will Be 'Critical'

BLOOMFIELD TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WJBK) -- Republicans say the president's visit shows just how important Michigan is in the race for the White House.

President Obama's visit to the University of Michigan was playing to his strengths according to a Republican leader of the Michigan House of Representatives.

"He, in my opinion, is pandering to his audience, the people that are likely to vote for him to encourage them through alleged policy statements. If he was sincere in addressing true policy, he would've taken an opportunity to visit with us in Michigan, talk about how we settled our deficit," said Michigan House Speaker Pro Tem Rep. John Walsh.

Thursday's nights GOP debate in Florida was heated, and the Republican race for the nomination is still up for grabs. The Michigan Primary is set for February 28th.

Since the contest has become so spirited, Michigan's Republican presidential primary is increasing in importance.

"I think it's going to be critical. Romney, of course, has a hometown advantage here. Newt Gingrich is working hard. My concern for Newt and Santourm is that they won't have the money to compete, and I think that's going to be a problem. I think, in reality, Romney's going to come here and take the state," said Oakland County Republican Party Chairman Jim Thienel.

There are constraints in primary voting.

"You don't register party, but you're going to have a choice. You can either vote on the Republican or the Democrat primary ballot. You can't split your ballot or vote both ways," Thienel explained.

Michigan has favored Democrats in recent presidential races, but Obama's visits could underscore a state in play.

"Personally I like it. It says that he recognizes how important this state is to the nation and to the electoral process," Thienel said.

Some Obama supporters are pushing Democrats to vote for Ron Paul in the primary to keep GOP division alive.

"I expect all kind of shenanigans on the part of the Democratic Party. I don't think it will make any difference," Thienel told us.