By Kristin Longley

FLINT, Michigan — It’s early yet, but Dan Kildee has raised more than $132,000 in his bid to replace his uncle, U.S. Rep. Dale Kildee, in Congress, his campaign announced today.

The Flint Democrat and former Genesee County treasurer is expected to make a formal announcement about his candidacy Nov. 1.

Dan Kildee received donations from more than 200 individual contributors since he filed his campaign committee with the Federal Election Commission in August, according to a statement from his campaign. The details of the official FEC report will be made public after the Oct. 15 campaign finance report filing deadline.

There’s still seven months to go until candidates for the 5th District congressional seat have to officially file paperwork to run. Dale Kildee, D-Flint, announced in July he wouldn’t seek a 19th term, leaving the seat open for the first time in 36 years.

Democrats who’ve said they’re considering a run also include former U.S. Rep. Jim Barcia of Bay City, Michigan Education Association organizer David Crim of Davison Township, state Sen. John Gleason of Flushing and state Rep. Woodrow Stanley of Flint.

Republican Jim Slezak, a former Democratic state senator, also announced last month he will campaign for the seat.

Source: mlive.com