RUNNING MATE

Word is that Republican gubernatorial front runner Bill Schuette has decided on his lieutenant governor, and it’s Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller. The former congresswoman (R-Harrison Township), Michigan Secretary of State, Macomb County Treasurer and Harrison Township Supervisor would bring not only a wealth of experience, but she may well be one of the most popular Republicans in the state. The question is, would she do it? She retired from Congress after a 10-year stint, despite chairing the Committee on House Administration, to return home and help care for her ailing husband. While Miller was actively sought for the top of the ticket by state Republicans, she wouldn’t leave Macomb County. One politico said the second spot is a possibility because there’s less heavy lifting. Schuette’s other choice for lieutenant gov, Ronna Romney McDaniel, turned him down point blank. She’s not leaving Washington, where she chairs the Republican National Committee, to trudge around for second best.