Mich. Senate Votes To Move Democrat Primary

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Senate voted yesterday to move the state's presidential nomination contests to January 15, further roiling an already turbulent nomination schedule that has raised the possibility of primaries before New Year's.

Approval of the switch is far from sure. The Michigan House must still approve the measure, and a disagreement among state Democratic leaders over whether to hold a primary or a caucus is complicating final action.

Republicans control the state Senate, Democrats the House, so changes in the measure are likely. State Democratic Chairman Mark Brewer said the Senate bill contains language that doesn't comply with national party rules and therefore is unacceptable.

If Michigan moves to a January 15 primary from early February, it's likely Iowa and New Hampshire will move up their first-in-the-nation contests.

A number of prominent Michigan Democratic leaders, including Governor Granholm, favor holding a presidential primary with the Republicans. The state GOP chairman, Saul Anuzis, has agreed on a January 15 primary if the Democrats agree to hold one.

Supporters of presidential candidate John Edwards are pressing for a Democratic caucus instead of a primary in Michigan.