Michigan Democrats say Republicans would bring more economic misery

Michigan Democrats put in their two cents this morning in advance of the Republican presidential debate, arguing that all the major GOP contenders would continue failed economic policies that have cost the state thousands of jobs.

"These folks are sounding just like George Bush," said Mark Brewer, chairman of the Michigan Democratic Party.

Michigan's unemployment rate in August was 7.4 percent, significantly higher than the national average of 4.6 percent.
The Republican debate, which airs at 4 p.m. on CNBC, is to focus on the economy.

While the conference call was organized to discuss the debate, Brewer was asked repeatedly by reporters about possible penalties for moving up the Michigan primary to Jan. 15, in violation of Democratic party rules. He said he's confident Michigan delegates will eventually get their say at the Democratic convention next year.

He was also asked about the Democratic presidential candidates giving the cold shoulder to Michigan to avoid flouting party rules. Brewer blamed a "monopoly" by officials in Iowa and New Hampshire, who try to intimidate candidates into not visiting other states.