Kalamazoo state Sen. Sean McCann is projected to have won the Democratic primary for Michigan’s 4th Congressional District, putting him on track for a November matchup against Republican Rep. Bill Huizenga. The victory gives Democrats a familiar Southwest Michigan candidate in a race that could become one of the party’s House pickup opportunities.
Reuters reported today that U.S. media projected McCann as the winner after yesterday’s primary, where he faced election newcomer Diop Harris II. McCann, a Michigan state senator, will now carry the Democratic banner into the general election campaign.
The race is centered on the 4th District, a Southwest Michigan seat that stretches along Lake Michigan and is currently held by Huizenga. Before polls closed, The Associated Press described the contest as one of several competitive House races that could help decide whether Republicans keep their narrow majority.
McCann Brings Money And Political Experience
McCann entered the primary with a substantial fundraising advantage. Federal Election Commission records show his campaign had raised about $2.62 million through July 15 and held roughly $1.69 million in cash, giving him a sizable financial base for the general election fight.
National Democrats had already signaled that they viewed McCann as a serious challenger. The DCCC placed him in its Red to Blue program in February, citing his background as a nonprofit leader, former state representative and current state senator.
November Race Will Test Southwest Michigan
McCann’s projected win sets up a direct contest with Huizenga, whom the U.S. House identifies as the representative for Michigan’s 4th Congressional District. The matchup will give voters a clear choice between a sitting congressional Republican and a state legislator trying to move up to Washington.
Michigan’s general election is scheduled for November 3, according to the state’s election calendar. For now, McCann has cleared the first hurdle in a district Democrats are targeting, while Huizenga’s reelection bid moves into a much more closely watched phase.
