U.S. Representative John Dingell has been a member of the House of Representatives since the age of 29, serving as representative of the15th District of Michigan and taking up where his father left off.

U.S. Representative John Dingell (D)

This November, he will face off against newcomer Robert Steele, who is attempting to take the place of the country’s longest-serving congressman in the general election.

A recent poll on October 8 reported that Dingell was trailing Steele by four points, despite the Congressman’s history and name recognition in the area.

A new poll released by the Detroit Free Press and WXYZ-TV on Thursday, October 21 showed Dingell leading Steele 53%-36%, however.

The polls which reported Steele’s lead were said to have been conducted anonymously by phone. Some believe the poll was simply a ploy by the GOP, however.

“Congressman Dingell has always been close to the people,” said Betsy Barrett, communications director for Dingell for Congress. “That is why they always support him. Steele has gained attention because of his

extreme views.”

Dingell has been a long-time friend to the Arab American community and has won most of his 26 re-elections by wide margins despite two separate redistricting changes that occurred in 2002 and 1965. The Dearborn-based 16th district was originally merged into his 15th district in 1965. Dingell has also served as the chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee in the U.S. House.

Steele is a cardiologist from Superior Township, who is new to politics, having never served in any public office. Steele feels that the Congressman’s long-term in office is gives him a chance in this election. He feels people are ready for something different.

“As voters come to know more about the candidates, they realize there is another option to the disaster that John Dingell,” said Jay McNally, spokesperson from the Steele campaign office. “Steele has been promoting cutting out of control government spending, and this message resonates with voters who are facing the worst economy since the Great Depression.”

Despite the 17-point lead by Dingell, his office is not calling it a sure win just yet. Barrett says they will stick to showing voters what Dingell stands for, ensuring they will continue to value him as their representative.

“We plan to do what we always do,” said Barrett, “run the best campaign possible and effectively communicate that John Dingell is the best statesman and watchdog for the 15th District because of what he stands for and what he delivers.”

Former President Bill Clinton is planning to visit Michigan on Sunday in support of the state’s democratic candidates. This visit will include a rally for John Dingell at 2 p.m. at the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor.