Peters: 'Extremely Close' to Decision about 14th Congressional Run

While he wouldn't comment directly on a widespread rumor about a run in the newly drawn 14th Congressional district, Congressman Gary Peters (D-9th Congressional) said Wednesday he's "extremely close" to making his decision.

"I still have to do a little soul-searching," Peters said after having lunch with members of the Xemplar Club at in downtown Farmington.

Peters said about half of the new district, which includes Farmington Hills, is in Oakland County. "I have represented every community as a member of Congress or as a state senator," he said. "It's a natural district for me to look at."

He did not comment directly on a MIRS newsletter report that former State Rep. Lamar Lemmons made public a conversation in which Peters reportedly confirmed that he planned a 14th District run, but said, "I am extremely close to making a decision."

"People really want me to do this," Peters added. "Without exception, I'm getting strong encouragement that this is the district I should run in."

After a brief presentation to the Xemplars, Peters fielded questions on topics that ranged from proposed troop reductions in Iraq, to the economy, jobs and global warming. A self-described "moderate," Peters said he is also frustrated with the polarization that causes partisan gridlock.

In response to a pointed question about Teamsters President James Hoffa, Jr.'s calling Republicans "sons of bitches" during a Labor Day speech in Detroit, Peters said, "That's not the way I conduct myself, and I don't think folks should do that. That's not part of the civil discourse we need to have in our country."

He said the concerns he heard Wednesday are similar to those expressed by people all around the 9th Congressional, largely the economy and jobs.

Farmington City Manager Vince Pastue asked about reauthorization of the federal gas tax; the 18.4 cent per gallon tax will expire at the end of this month. Peters said without the money, the nation's roads and bridges will fall into further decline and require an even greater investment to repair.

The issue also has a very local impact.

"We got grant authorization to do Drake Rd. between Freedom and Grand River," Pastue said. "I told the engineering company not to design it, until we know the tax is reauthorized. Otherwise, we would be working on it right now."

"I don't usually ask questions," Pastue said of the meeting with Peters. "That one has me concerned."