There are not a lot of races in Michigan this Summer where you have this chance.  Jason  has ignited the passions of enough local citizens to make a race with a competent, but timid incumbent into a real contest.  Most of you don't live in this or a similar district. You have a conservative incumbent, an unopposed incumbent, or an incumbent who can't be beat, or a Democrat you can't get rid of.

It is time for you to involve yourself in a race that matters; that CAN be won.  Statewide and nationally, liberals are watching this race.  The Daily Kos (expletives deleted) has identified Jason as a "threat" to the status quo candidate. The incumbent recognizes that threat and is even using the hated "robocalls" a full four weeks before the election.  And here is laid bare the real difference in the campaigns. Money.

Incumbents can easily tap the cash register of Lansing lobbyists. Organizations and PACs take the easy way out and give dollars to incumbents (eg: the Greater Detroit Chamber of Commerce endorsing Debbie Stabenow, while few of its members would ever vote for her). The best current guess is that Jason's incumbent opponent will spend over $50,000, while Friends of Jason Gillman plan to spend about $8,000!

But despite the 6-1 spending difference, Jason's signs are popping up everywhere and letters to the editor supporting him are increasing.   Now, wherever you are reading this, you can make a decision that will MAKE A DIFFERENCE.  If you have Grand Traverse County friends, contact them today and urge not only a vote but sign locations and active participation.  Most importantly, this week Jason will initiate a few radio commercials.  He is "making the sale" everywhere he can actually talk to voters, but media is both a luxury and necessary. Please send a check (and make it hurt a little) to "Friends of Jason Gillman" PO Box 5449, Traverse City, Mi 49696.  We all send our checks to state and national candidates and wonder if we have really done anything in the big picture.  This is a race where you really can make a difference.

Observant readers will note the name similarity of the writer to the candidate.  Well, it is not only pride in my son, but a growing belief this race can be won which prompts this.  I have described myself as "generationally challenged" by over 50 years watching and participating in Michigan politics.  I haven't been able to believe that efforts toward limited and fiscally-sound government can prevail against the power of the "alphabet groups (AFL, AFSCME, SEIU, UAW, etc)".  But if it can happen in Wisconsin and Indiana, maybe here in Michigan?  Help make me a believer, with your help...from wherever you are.  This is a watershed race.