John Chamberlin interviewed for The Hill article, "Conyers wants Obama's backing" | Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy
 
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John Chamberlin interviewed for The Hill article, "Conyers wants Obama's backing"

September 8, 2011
The Hill interviewed John Chamberlin in an article about Michigan Rep. John Conyers, Jr.'s 2012 reelection bid, and his desire for President Obama's endorsement.

As the second-longest-serving current member of the House of Representatives, Conyers may face his toughest reelection campaign since 1994. "Conyers has been around a long time, but hasn't had to fight very hard. He might get a run for his money," Chamberlin told The Hill.

Part of Conyers' challenge comes because of the re-drawing of Michigan's district lines. Conyers' new district, the 14th, has just 20 percent of his previous constituents, and at least three Democrats have expressed interest in running from the new district.

Though backing from the president would certainly help Conyers' reelection campaign, Obama's support isn't a guarantee. "I'm sure [Conyers would] be happy to have the president endorse him," Chamberlin said. But "I can't imagine Obama would get too mixed up in this. He's got so many fights, this doesn't seem like a high-stakes one."