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Posted on Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 3:05 a.m.

David Rutledge earns Democratic nomination in Michigan's 54th District state House primary

By Ryan J. Stanton

David Rutledge, a Washtenaw County road commissioner and longtime public servant, won a six-way Democratic primary race on Tuesday for the chance to replace Alma Wheeler Smith in the state House of Representatives.

David_Rutledge_ headshot_2010.jpg

David Rutledge

With all precincts reporting, unofficial results show Rutledge, who also serves on the Washtenaw Community College Board of Trustees, pulled ahead of all five his Democratic opponents with 2,693 votes (38 percent). That topped his closest opponent, Lonnie Scott, who had 2,175 votes (31 percent).

Bill Riney placed third with 924 votes (13 percent). Michael White had 680 (10 percent), Edison Hubert had 372 (5 percent) and Dave Franklin had 267 (4 percent).

On the Republican side of the ticket, Richard Deitering squeaked by with 52 percent of the GOP vote, beating Rodney Nanney, 2,340 to 2,145.

That means Deitering and Rutledge will face off in November alongside independent candidate David Palmer.

The 54th District includes the city of Ypsilanti and Augusta, Salem, Superior and Ypsilanti townships in Washtenaw County.

Smith, D-Salem Township, who currently holds the seat, is term-limited from running again and was backing Scott, who currently serves as her legislative aide.

Scott said he called Rutledge to congratulate him.

"I think that we ran a very strong campaign and I'm proud of all the work that we were able to put in," Scott said. "Unfortunately in a six-way primary, anything can happen. So I congratulated Mr. Rutledge and told him that I look forward to working with him as he moves toward the November election."

Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529.

Comments

free form

Thu, Aug 5, 2010 : 5:17 p.m.

You realize this was only a primary, right? Mr. Rutledge is NOT a state representative and hopefully those disappointed by his win will help keep it that way...

kaylagurl

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 6:07 p.m.

Make Ypsi Better - please do not leave a forwarding address Cash - I know you wish you had some to buy a meal Seems Lonnie's supporters are a bit sore, maybe they should tell Lonnie next time..............STOP THE LIES Congrats State Rep David Rutledge!!!!! I am happy for you. I know you will do a great job.

livelaughlove

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 11:48 a.m.

Congrats! I think you will represent the 54th District well by brining experience, dedication, intergrity and a sense of community service. Thank you and look forward to having you as our State REP. for the 54th District!!!!

KeepingItReal

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 11:39 a.m.

The voters spoke and the voters will regret. I can't think of one important accomplishment of Rutledge and I've known him for a longtime.

DDD

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 11:20 a.m.

Congratulations Mr. Rutledge, the VOTERS were not fooled by "convenient" news articles. You ran on your record, dedication, character and integrity. They spoke for you!

Cash

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 10:05 a.m.

Huge disappointment. Lots more free dinners for Mr Rutledge...while taxpayers suffer the consequences.

CareyJernigan

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 9:06 a.m.

Congratulations David! Thanks for what you have accomplished and what you will.

BenWoodruff

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 9:03 a.m.

I can't believe that Bill "Hot Dog Man" Riney lost. What a bad year. Punched in the face by Bikers for crossing a funeral procession and then losing another election.

watchingypsi

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 7:52 a.m.

Congratulations! I see nothing close to "entitlement" here. I think he will be an honest hardworking Representative. I hope he learns a lot and continues on in serving his community through governmental positions.

Make Ypsi Better

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 7:39 a.m.

Major Disaapointment, i'm moving.

free form

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 7:23 a.m.

I'm honestly shocked that both Lonnie Scott and Rodney Nanney lost... Seriously Rutledge? Wow...

YpsiLivin

Wed, Aug 4, 2010 : 6:47 a.m.

Major disappointment; a victory for the entitlement culture.