MI reps engage in scuffle in Capitol

LANSING, Mich. (WOOD/AP) - A shoving match that occurred on the state House floor between several Democrats on Thursday night has been blown out of proportion, said one of those involved.

Rep. David Nathan and Rep. Harvey Santana, both Detroit Democrats, were involved in an incident late Thursday as the House neared the end of a 12-hour session.

Nathan was at his seat when Santana approached his desk. Other lawmakers and House sergeants moved in to keep them separated.

One of those who moved in to separate them was Rep. Roy Schmidt (D-Grand Rapids).

Nathan said Friday the swarm around his desk made the incident look bigger than it was. He said no punches were thrown and the incident "really wasn't anything."

Sources on the House floor said that one punch was thrown but did not land.

Ari Adler, spokesperson for House Speaker Jase Bolger, confirmed that there was an altercation involving Santana and Nathan. He said the House Sergeants reacted immediately and the House resumed its business.

Schmidt's spokesman Ed Kettle said Schmidt stepped in to stop the scuffle and that no one was punched.

Kettle released a statement about the incident on Thursday night:

"News reports of a “fist fight” on the House or Floor tonight are greatly over stated. (sic) Two Democrat Representatives had a difference of opinion that got a little heated. Representative Roy Schmidt, wanting to avert any escalation of the problem, stepped in between the two gentlemen and stopped the argument. No punches we (sic) ever thrown. The House Sergeants responded immediately and had one of the Reps step outside to cool off while Representative Schmidt returned to his seat. The House concluded their business for the calendar year about ten minutes later."

Nathan says Democrats are "frustrated" after a year as the House's minority party after being asked what sparked it. He says Republicans aren't giving Democrats opportunities to participate in the legislative process, causing tensions.

Thursday was the last day of the legislative year in Michigan.