Lon Johnson wins Democratic Primary vote for First District U.S. Congressional seat

Poster courtesy Lon Johnson for Congress.

TRAVERSE CITY -- Last night, Aug. 2, Lon Johnson won the Democratic nomination to serve as the next Member of Congress representing the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan.

After securing the nomination, Johnson stated, "Tonight, our campaign earned the Democratic nomination, and I’d like to recognize Jerry Cannon and thank him for running a strong campaign. I admire Jerry’s commitment to fighting for the values of Northern Michigan and appreciate his continued service to the people of Northern Michigan and to our country."

Johnson then delivered a message to his supporters that reflected on the hard work that led to this victory, and he challenged his supporters to continue their work for victory in November.

"I could not have done this without the support of thousands of people in Northern Michigan and the U.P. who believe like I do that we need a government that reflects the values of the hardworking families who have made this country great," Johnson said. "Together, over the past year we contacted more than 100,000 voters and drove thousands of miles and raised over $1 million in grassroots donations. Now we look toward to November and keep running a campaign based on our values -- to create a government that puts people first, not special interests, corporations, or Wall Street schemes."

Johnson will face Jack Bergman, Republican Primary winner for the First District Congressional seat. Bergman, of Watersmeet, is a retired Marine lieutenant general.

Johnson won 72 percent of the Democratic Primary vote, with a reported 31,677 votes, while his opponent, Jerry Cannon, received 28 percent with 12,539 votes.

Bergman captured 33,624 Republican votes, or 39 percent -- defeating State Sen. Tom Casperson, who received 27,811 votes (32 percent) and former Michigan Sen. Jason Allen, who received 25,604 votes (29 percent).

Johnson to hold Town Hall meeting in Menominee Aug. 8

Johnson has announced on his Facebook page that he will continue his Town Hall tour with a meeting next Monday, Aug. 8, in Menominee. The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. in UTC-05 at Schloegels Bay View Restaurant, 2720 10th St, Menominee, Michigan 49858.

During his Primary campaign, Johnson received many endorsements from national, state and local leaders -- including the Houghton County Democratic Party, who hosted several visits with him.

"When I am in Congress, I will work to create a Northern Michigan and U.P. where our families can stay and succeed by investing in, and protecting, our greatest assets: our people, land and Great Lakes," Johnson told supporters after his Primary victory.

More information about Lon Johnson’s campaign can be found on the campaign’s website at   http://www.LonJohnson.com.