GOP Candidates Separated by a Hair in Contest for Stupak Seat

The race for Rep. Bart Stupak's open seat is close. Thisclose.

Two Michigan Republicans vying for their party's nomination were, at one point, just one vote apart, as state election officials continue to review returns from the historically close race last week.

The tally, after polls closed in the race between surgeon Dan Benishek and state Sen. Jason Allen, was 27,091 votes to 27,090 votes -- with Benishek ahead.

Kelly Chesney, spokeswoman for the Michigan secretary of state, said Benishek's lead has since widened to 12 points and an up-to-the-minute tally is not available.

"Not for a very long time have we seen a race this close in this size of a district," she said.

Local election officials have until Aug. 17 to finish their review of the returns, though Chesney said the state is shooting to be done by Friday. From there, officials must certify the results -- and then both candidates will have 48 hours to file recount requests.

All the while, Democratic state Rep. Gary McDowell has a running head start toward the general election. McDowell ran unopposed for the nomination.

Stupak, a Democrat, played a key role in the health care debate by negotiating with party leaders over abortion language. He announced his retirement in April.