Lt. Gov. John Cherry Out of the Race for Governor

Longtime fundraiser Faylene Owen says Lt. Gov. John Cherry has decided against running to succeed Democratic Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Owen confirmed Tuesday morning that Cherry, who hasn't formally entered the race, plans to announce that he won't be running. Owen, an East Lansing resident and Michigan State University trustee, says the tough economy and Granholm's record has made it difficult for Cherry to raise money. Cherry was considered the Democratic front-runner, but signs of trouble came recently when he shook up his campaign staff. His withdrawal could make it more likely House Speaker Andy Dillon or Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero will enter the race. Already running are Democratic state Rep. Alma Wheeler Smith, former Rep. John Freeman and Michigan State trustee George Perles. (Copyright 2010 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)