Credit union supported candidates saw victories in Tuesday’s primaries, including in Kansas and Michigan, and a likely victory in Ohio’s special election. Candidates are supported by CUNA’s political action committee, the Credit Union Legislative Action Council, and state leagues.
Ohio conducted a special election to fill the remainder of the term left open by retired Rep. Pat Tiberi (R). As of Wednesday afternoon, credit union-backed State Sen. Troy Balderson (R) held a 0.9% lead over opponent Danny O’Connor (D).
With 100% of precincts reporting, Balderson leads by 1,754 votes. Balderson has claimed victory, but there are more than 3,000 provisional ballots yet to be counted. Ohio law requires a recount if the margin is less than 0.5%.
The winner of the special election will serve until November, but regardless of this week’s outcome Balderson and O’Connor will face off again in November.
In the Kansas 4th Congressional District primary, credit union-backed Rep. Ron Estes (R), defeated his opponent, also named Ron Estes, 81% to 19%. CUNA, the Heartland Credit Union Association and Kansas credit unions worked on a campaign supporting Rep. Estes among credit union employees and volunteers to combat potential confusion over the names.
In Michigan’s 9th Congressional District, Andy Levin, son of incumbent Rep. Sandy Levin (D), won his Democratic primary with 73% of the vote over two other challengers.