By By JOHN EBY / Niles Daily Star
DOWAGIAC - Michigan House 78th District candidate Bill Baber, R-Berrien Springs, heads into his Aug. 8 primary matchup with incumbent state Rep. Neal Nitz endorsed by both sheriffs, Cass County's Joe Underwood and Berrien County's Paul Bailey.
The sheriffs met with Baber Friday afternoon at Round Oak Restaurant in Dowagiac to announce their support.
Bailey said the 78th District needs a representative who listens and communicates more with constituents by going to township meetings and holding forums “to find out what the issues are. I think we're lacking that.
Baber owns and operates Baber's Lakeshore Marathon, the Wash Station Car Wash and Lakeshore Towing Service, all located in Stevensville.
Underwood added, “I've had the opportunity to talk to Bill about his candidacy and what his visions are for the 78th District and for the State of Michigan as a whole. If businesses go well and the climate is changed in Michigan, that affects law enforcement. Crime should be down. If we don't have jobs, crime is up. I think Bill can bring a broad perspective to the issues and to the House.”
Endorsing a candidate “is not something I do lightly,” Underwood said.
Bailey did not endorse Baber when he challenged Nitz, R-Baroda, in 2004.