GRAND RAPIDS, MI — The libertarian ideals of U.S. Rep. Justin Amash materialized from the onset, with criticism directed toward Republican leadership and establishment figures wishing to undermine his campaign.

The two-term congressman pledged continued support of his constituents, to focus on people's civil liberties if elected to a third term in Congress. All the while, Amash worked the room to court votes ahead of the Aug. 5 primary against local businessman and challenger Brian Ellis.

Amash, R-Cascade Township, spoke Monday during MLive's Meet the Candidate forum at The Grand Rapids Press' downtown hub.

Andrew Krietz covers breaking, politics and transportation news for MLive | The Grand Rapids Press. Email him at akrietz@mlive.com or follow him on Twitter.