Congressional candidates push their message

ISHPEMING — The race for the First Congressional District seat in Washington has gone from five candidates to just two.

After Tuesday night’s votes were counted up, political newcomer Jack Bergman and former Michigan Democratic Chair Lon Johnson were declared the winners of their respective primaries.

Bergman is pushing a message of getting this country back on track through venues of fiscal responsibility and education.

Johnson’s campaign is focused on protecting the resources that the northern Lower Peninsula and the U.P. have to offer.

“In the Upper Peninsula and in Northern Michigan, we’ve always led the world,” said Johnson.

“We led the world in international trade– fur trade in the 1700’s. Then we led the world in mining in iron ore. Then we led the world in lumber. It’s time for us to lead again and do it the same way our ancestors did– investing in and protecting our greatest assets… our people, our land and our Great Lakes,” Johnson added.

“Our message is going to start very simple,” said Bergman.

“Please on November the 8th, vote. While we would like you to vote for us, please vote. Because when you vote, you validate and reaffirm the service of the men and women of the United States Military who protected your right to vote.”

Bergman is a former three–star general with the U.S. Marine Corps.

There are 96 days left until the general election on November 8th.