Whitmer’s Legal Team Responds to Lawsuit Over Vacant Senate Seat
A legal battle has erupted over a vacant state senate seat in Michigan, as Governor Gretchen Whitmer faces a lawsuit demanding she call a special election. The seat, representing areas of Saginaw, Bay, and Midland counties, has been unoccupied since January, with residents eager for representation.
Governor Whitmer had previously indicated her intention to organize a special election, yet no official action has been taken. This inaction led to a lawsuit filed earlier this month in the Michigan Court of Claims by constituents of the 35th district. The lawsuit aims to compel the governor to expedite the election process.
In response, Governor Whitmer’s attorneys have filed a rebuttal, asserting that the Court of Claims lacks the jurisdiction to force gubernatorial action. “150 years of Michigan Supreme Court doctrine prohibits courts from issuing mandamus or injunctive relief against the Governor,” the legal team argued in their brief, further questioning the standing of the plaintiffs to initiate the lawsuit.
With the judicial proceedings ongoing, political tensions are high. Republicans have criticized the governor, suggesting that the delay is a strategic political maneuver. The district in question was previously held by Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet, who vacated the seat upon her election to Congress. Democrats currently maintain a slim majority in the state senate, and Republicans are hopeful of capturing the 35th district seat.
The outcome of this legal and political conflict could significantly impact the balance of power within Michigan’s state senate, as the vacant seat represents over 250,000 citizens eager for representation.
—
Read More Michigan News
