ELECTION NO-GO

Tina Barton

Those looking for Rochester Hills Clerk Tina Barton to ascend the ladder to Oakland County Clerk will have to wait another election cycle. Barton, a Republican, ran in the 2016 Republican primary for the position, but lost to former county clerk Bill Bullard – who then lost to Oakland County Clerk Lisa Brown (D). While there have been rumors that Barton has aspirations of higher office – ones she has confirmed – she doesn't think this is the right time for her, or any Republicans, in Oakland County, noting that it will be a tough road to hoe in 2020 for anyone from the GOP in Oakland County. “I feel I can have a real impact on elections where I am rather than running for office,” Barton said. “I'm happy where I am.”