For the first time in 20 years, Michigan voters will trek to the polls in August and November to choose a governor and not have the option of reelecting an incumbent. Gov. John Engler must step down after 12 years in office due to Michigan's term limits, leaving voters around the state looking for a candidate with a solid record.

"Experience is going to be a big issue. Voters are going to want someone at the helm who is qualified to lead the state," said Jason Brewer, spokesman for the Michigan Republican Party.

The current race is focused on five candidates. Vying for the Republican nomination are Lt. Gov. Dick Posthumus and state Sen. John "Joe" Schwarz (R-Battle Creek). Michigan Attorney General Jennifer Granholm, former Gov. John Blanchard and U.S. House Rep. David Bonior of Mt. Clemens are contending for the Democratic nomination. The primaries for each party are Aug. 6 and the general election will be Nov. 5.

While there has not been an official endorsement of a Republican gubernatorial candidate, several state Republicans said they feel Posthumus is more qualified for the office due to his experience as lieutenant governor over the past four years and a previous eight years as state Senate majority leader.

"The lieutenant governor has got the experience and vision for Michigan," Washtenaw County Republican Chairwoman Marlene Chockley said, adding that Posthumus's concerns for the economy and education are essential for the state.

Brewer said Posthumus has been responsible for much of the successful legislation of the 1990s such as tax cuts and welfare reform.

"Those are things that Posthumus shepherded through the legislature," Brewer said. "(He) has a solid record that I think he can run on." On the other hand, Posthumus opponent Schwarz is attempting to grab moderate voters and was helped by his endorsement last week by former GOP Gov. William Milliken, a moderate to liberal Republican.

Washtenaw County Democratic Chairwoman Patricia Scribner said more people will be focused on this year's race in order to find a candidate who will address the issues Engler failed to resolve during his twelve year tenure.

"People are tired of Engler," Scribner said. "They're going to be looking at a candidate who meets their needs."

With education being the only area spared cuts for the 2002-2003 fiscal year, K-12 schools and public universities have been a high priority for Engler, Cynthia Wilbanks, University vice president for government relations, said. She added that she hopes the new governor recognizes the importance of higher education for the future of Michigan.

"I think it's a two-way relationship. I would hope that the new governor is considerate of the fact that higher education is an important priority of the state," Wilbanks said. "We are in a strong position to provide the graduates that this state needs to go forward."