Signs of worry in the Cherry camp?

Gov. Jennifer Granholm is stepping up her support of Lt. Governor John Cherry’s bid to succeed her by sending emails to Democrats across the state urging them to contribute to his campaign for governor in the 2010 election.

Granholm has publicly endorsed Mr. Cherry several times, but the recent mailing brings that endorsement to a larger audience, Gongwer News reported.

The email comes as polls show that Cherry is garnering less support than expected from likely primary voters.

"We cannot move backward in 2010. We simply must support John Cherry in his campaign to be Michigan's next governor. Please join me in making a contribution today," the email said.

Cherry is being challenged on the Democratic side by Rep. Alma Wheeler Smith, D-Salem Township, and former Rep. John Freeman. House Speaker Andy Dillon is considered another potential candidate.