EXHIBIT 23



                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statements
(Form Statement No. 33-55336, No. 33-55304, No. 33-62508, and No. 333-26515 on
Form S-8, and 33-61842 on Form S-3) pertaining to Republic Bancorp Inc. Tax-
Deferred Savings Plan and Trust of our report dated June 21, 2000 with respect
to the financial statements and schedules of the Republic Bancorp Inc. Tax-
Deferred Savings Plan and Trust included in this annual report (Form 11-K) for
the year ended December 31, 1999.



/s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Detroit, Michigan
June 21, 2000



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