TRAVERSE CITY, MI (AP)-- Michigan state Representative Wayne Schmidt has picked up support from an unlikely source in a closely watched battle for an open Senate seat in northern Michigan: his opponent's mom.
Schmidt is facing an Aug. 5 primary challenge from fellow Republican Representative Greg MacMaster in the 37th District.
MacMaster's mother Michele tells the Traverse City Record-Eagle that Schmidt is "the better candidate," citing his background and community activities.
Greg MacMaster says he hasn't spoken to his mom in 21 years and says she left him to live with his alcoholic father as a boy. Once his dad died, he lived with his mother and stepfather. He also says it's "unfortunate some people choose to take politics to a personal level."
Michele MacMaster declined to discuss her relationship with her son.