What is supposed to be a banner year nationally for conservatives may not translate into a victory for Republican Tim Walberg in the 7th Congressional District.
A new independent poll shows that Walberg, who held the seat only two years ago, is trailing incumbent Democrat Mark Schauer 39 percent to 45 percent.
Moreover, the poll showed Schauer receiving 19 percent of the support for Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Snyder in the 7th District, likely meaning some Republicans are ready to split their vote.
Why is this happening? Walberg has a reputation for being an ultra-conservative and has repeatedly dismissed Schauer’s insistence that a key part of being a congressman is bringing home the bacon. Walberg says reducing earmarks are key to bringing down the deficit.
Also not helping matters for Walberg were his recent comments that President Barack Obama should prove he is an American by showing his birth certificate to a group of people including Rush Limbaugh and a “Supreme Court justice."
Still, Schauer’s lead is not overwhelming, and Walberg has time to turn things around before the Nov. 2 election.
