By Laura Weber, Michigan Public Radio Network
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wkar/local-wkar-888058.mp3
REDFORD, MI – Democratic state House Speaker Andy Dillon has launched his official campaign for governor. He announced his plans Sunday at an auto-plant in his hometown of Redford, near Detroit.
About a half dozen Democratic lawmakers from the state House showed up at Detroit Diesel to support Dillon and his bid for governor. But not all of Dillon's Democratic colleagues support him - some have been vocal about wanting Dillon to step down as Speaker while he runs for governor.
Dillon says he has no intentions of leaving his post.
"You know, as I look at it, my agenda for the state doesn't change whether I'm the Speaker or a candidate for governor. It's the same challenges that we've got," Dillon says.
Dillon is running against one of his colleagues - state Representative Alma Wheeler Smith. Lansing Mayer Virg Bernero is also in the race for the Democratic nomination, and former Genesee County Treasurer Dan Kildee is expected to launch his campaign soon.