Stupak faces primary challenge

Rep. Bart Stupak (D-Mich.), a holdout on the Democrats' health reform bill, will face a primary challenger in the fall.

Connie Saltonstall, a businesswoman and former county commissioner, will face off against the anti-abortion rights Democrat, according to media outlets.

Stupak's decision to withhold his vote on the healthcare bill has rankled pro-abortion rights Democrats and the party's leadership, who wants to pass the bill quickly. The congressman, who was elected in 1992, has threatened to whip at least 12 votes against the bill unless the abortion language is somehow changed.

The last time Stupak faced a primary challenger was 2000, when he beat his opponent 89 to 11, according to CNN. 

Saltonstall cited the congressman's abortion stance for launching her candidacy.

Stupak's spokesperson told CNN "The congressman is not surprised by a primary opponent considering the recent controversy surrounding the Stupak Amendment and health care. He plans to prepare for an aggressive, spirited primary race."