Michigan 3rd Congressional District Race Heats Up as Lawyer Paul Hudson Set to Take on Incumbent US Rep. Scholten

Lawyer Paul Hudson Poised to Challenge US Rep. Scholten in west Michigan

In a turn of events in the political landscape of west Michigan, attorney Paul Hudson will challenge incumbent U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, in Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District. This comes after a successful bid in Tuesday’s Republican primary election, in which Hudson emerged victorious.

Hudson to take on Scholten

Hudson, heading the appellate division at the Miller Canfield law firm, won over Grand Haven entrepreneur Michael Markey to secure the chance to challenge Scholten in the next stage. With over 62% of the vote recorded, Hudson led Markey 54% to 46%. This race was called by The Associated Press in favor of Hudson close to midnight Tuesday. Scholten, on the other hand, breezed through the Democratic primary, securing a massive 91% of the vote against west Michigan businessman Salim Al-Shatel.

Prior to his congressional run, Hudson had sought a seat on the Michigan Supreme Court. He ran a close race in 2022, falling fourth in a contest for two seats. His current campaign emphasizes reducing government spending, cutting taxes, and strengthening immigration law to fortify the U.S. southern border.

Contrasting Visions

In a statement released by Hudson, he outlined the differences he sees between himself and his opponent, Scholten. He emphasized that his candidacy represents a positive, unifying vision promoting growth, prosperity, and security for all of west Michigan and the nation. Scholten, according to Hudson, campaigned for moderate bipartisanship but shifted towards party-line progressive stance once in Congress.

Scholten, however, argues that she has been effective in her position, noting on a social media platform that she has delivered on the issues that matter most to the residents of west Michigan.

Upcoming Battle in the 3rd District

The 3rd District, centered around Grand Rapids – Michigan’s second-largest city – covers most of Kent County, spanning west to Lake Michigan, taking in the city of Muskegon and northern Ottawa County. Following redistricting before the 2022 midterm elections, it inclined heavily Democratic.

The Cook Political Report projects the district as likely Democratic, suggesting Scholten has the upper hand for reelection. However, the rise of Hudson, who enjoys robust support among Republican establishments, could generate a contest. Hudson’s campaign, however, is at a financial disadvantage possessing around $306,000 in cash at the reporting period’s end, according to the Federal Elections Commission. In contrast, Scholten’s campaign had over $2.4 million on hand.

As the elections approach, all eyes in west Michigan will be on the unfolding battle in Michigan’s 3rd Congressional District.