GOP says Michigan is in play

DETROIT, April 7 (UPI) -- Republican officials in Michigan are optimistic the GOP will carry the union bastion in the upcoming presidential election.

Party officials told the Detroit News the ongoing battle between Hillary Clinton and Barrack Obama could prompt a sizable chunk of voters toward their candidate, John McCain.

Recent polls indicate that Michigan could indeed be in play as McCain keeps pace with the two Democratic hopefuls who are being forced to contest the late primary states rather than shoring up their base in Michigan.

"If the Democrats continue to ignore Michigan I think it's a disaster

for Democrats," state Republican chairman Saul Anuzis said. "They're

making a tactical error, and I think the voters will be upset."