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His decision to withdraw from the Court of Appeals race was a practical one. There were two liberals and three conservatives running, and after running the numbers he knew someone had to go.

Elsenheimer said he is disappointed that the race for the Court of Appeals didn't work out, but that he is more concerned about the candidates for his seat.

"My real concern is for those people who worked so hard to campaign. People change their lives to do this," he said.

Republican candidate Tim Boyko of Norwood said he will withdraw from the race when he sees that Elsenheimer has filed his candidacy with the Secretary of State.

"I was an early supporter of Kevin when he first ran for state office and I will remain an enthusiastic supporter," Boyko said. "He has provided an unusually high degree of commitment to the people. I am proud to be represented by Kevin in Lansing and I will work to get him re-elected."

Boyko thanked his supporters.

"My campaign was short but very intense. I contacted and talked to many fine individuals in the district. I thank each person who had words of encouragement. This does not end my commitment to this district that I will continue to serve to the best of my abilities," Boyko said.

Kenneth Glasser, R-Gaylord, said his efforts now go towards Elsenheimer. "I intend to withdraw from the race," Glasser said. "I enthusiastically endorse Kevin and plan to work to see him re-elected."

Dennis Lennox, R-Topinabee, said he is suspending his campaign for the state House and is endorsing Elsenheimer.

"This was a difficult decision, but it's best for the hard-working people of northern Michigan," Lennox said. "Rep. Elsenheimer has been a strong conservative voice in Lansing and I fully support him."

Democratic candidate Michael Webster of Walloon Lake is also withdrawing from the race.

"Having known Kevin for 10 years, I believe he would have made a fine jurist. I appreciate his decision to return to the legislature where he has been dedicated to working for the citizens of our state that live and work in northern Michigan," Webster said. "I admire his success and respectively withdraw my candidacy for the state House."

But Democratic candidate Connie Saltonstall of Charlevoix remains in the race. "I am committed to serving the people of the 105th District," Saltonstall said. "I was the first candidate to file and I was expecting to run against Elsenheimer.

After I filed, he announced that he was running for the Court of Appeals, and apparently he has changed his mind. Now the question is who is the more committed candidate. Obviously, I believe I am."

The 105th District is comprised of Antrim, Charlevoix, Otsego and most of Cheboygan counties.

B. J. Hetler may be contacted at 231-622-2645 or at citizen@voyager.net.