Hudson Wins Republican Primary to Take on Democratic Rep. Scholten in Fall
East Grand Rapids Lawyer Triumphs Over Financial Planner in GOP Race
Paul Hudson, a well-established legal figure from East Grand Rapids, emerged victorious in the riveting GOP primary race towards the U.S. House of Representatives, defeating financial planner Michael Markey Jr. of Grand Haven.
Hudson now sets course for a showdown against the Democratic Rep. Hillary Scholten of Grand Rapids in the general election due in November. Scholten previously made history as the first woman to represent Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District.
Star Candidate Hudson Outlines Campaign Strategy
Hudson, who has called West Michigan home since 2012, claimed 54% of the votes in the GOP primary. His campaign strategy has been centered around clear-cut issues affecting everyday Americans, such as inflation, the U.S. Southern border’s security, and soaring government expenditure.
The lawyer, who had previously unsuccessfully contested for a Michigan Supreme Court seat, has elected to keep his vision focused on the U.S. House contest. He purposely avoids the chaotic narratives surrounding the presidential faceoff, preferring instead to develop a positive vision for West Michigan.
Markey’s Journey and Vision
Markey’s political journey can be traced to the Lansing area, where he was born and raised before making West Michigan his home for nearly two decades. Despite falling short in the primary, Markey has a clear political vision.
His list of priorities includes reforming the Social Security system projecting financial instability by 2031. Amid competitive campaign politics, Markey assailed Hudson for representing a Chinese company while practicing law.
Democrat Scholten on the Winning Streak
Scholten, who had a landslide victory against Norton Shores real estate agent and entrepreneur, Salim Al-Shatel, seizes the opportunity to represent Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District for a second time.
During her campaign, Scholten intricately outlined her achievements and future strategies. As the Democratic representative, she continues to elevate her status by calling for President Joe Biden to step aside as the party’s presidential nominee, eventually encouraging Vice President Kamala Harris’ rise.
Support and Campaign Funding
In terms of campaign financing, Scholten considerably stands ahead, with roughly $2.4 million in her campaign coffers. Her fundraising prowess gives her significant leverage against Hudson, who trailed behind with $300,000. However, the race tightens as Hudson’s brother, Ryan, a prosperous tech entrepreneur, committed a significant $1 million donation to a political action committee backing Hudson.
A Heated Journey towards the General Election
With the primaries concluded, it’s officially a head-to-head showdown for Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District between Hudson and Scholten. With prominent figures supporting their campaigns and vast experience under their belts, it will be an intense race towards the general election.
