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Primary Showdown in Michigan’s 35th State Senate District
In a special election that could have lasting effects on the political landscape of Lansing, voters in Michigan’s 35th state Senate District are preparing to cast their ballots. This election is not only pivotal for the immediate power dynamics but also hints at voter sentiment as the critical 2026 election season approaches.
Political analysts are weighing two theories: whether “some data is better than no data” or if “bad data is worse than no data.” The race in the 35th District will inevitably contribute to this ongoing debate.
With Democrats clinging to a narrow Senate majority, the stakes are particularly high. Securing this seat could solidify Democratic control, making it crucial to the legislative agenda for the rest of the year. Historically, incumbents have a strategic advantage, making this special election even more significant.
Context of the Election
This seat became vacant on January 3, 2025, following former state Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet’s move to the U.S. House. Although the Michigan Constitution mandates a special election to fill such vacancies, it does not specify the timing. Governor Gretchen Whitmer delayed calling this election for 238 days, leading to criticism from Republicans and pressure from within her party.
“It was pretty much at the discretion of Governor Whitmer,” WCMU News Director Rick Brewer explained in a recent podcast episode. This delay became a point of contention, with accusations of political maneuvering from Republicans and calls for expediency from Democrats like Attorney General Dana Nessel.
Why This Election Matters
The election is crucial due to the razor-thin Democratic majority of 19-18 in the Senate, making the 35th District a vital swing seat. “That seat will really determine, can Governor Gretchen Whitmer fulfill a lot of the bills and promises she’s made,” Brewer noted. The narrow majority complicates legislative processes, especially in a divided government with Republican control of the state House.
Understanding the Swing District
The 35th District’s competitive nature stems from its geography, covering much of Saginaw County, which is seen as a “swing county in the swing state.” Since 1992, its presidential vote has been a reliable indicator of statewide results. The district also includes Midland, a GOP stronghold, and Bay County, which has shifted more Democratic recently, making the race highly unpredictable.
Key Campaign Issues
On the campaign trail, affordability is a dominant topic in both Democratic and Republican primaries. Nearly every candidate addresses cost of living concerns. Republicans focus on property tax reform and reducing the state income tax, while Democrats discuss education and countering MAGA extremism, alongside post-pandemic learning recovery efforts.
Looking Ahead
It’s important to note that this primary is just the beginning. The winners will move on to a general election in May, filling the seat through the end of 2026. However, the seat will be contested again later this year, with another primary in August and a general election in November for a full four-year term starting in 2027.
For more insights into Michigan’s 35th Senate District, Rick Brewer’s team at WCMU provides extensive coverage.
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Have questions about Michigan politics? We welcome your feedback on what you’d like to see more of (or less of) in our newsletter. Feel free to reach out via email at politics@michiganpublic.org!
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An in-depth look at USA Today’s acquisition of the Detroit News and the significance of Michigan’s upcoming 35th Senate District special election.
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Topics at the Dinner Table
Testify: Michigan’s Democratic Senators Gary Peters and Elissa Slotkin are calling for Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem to testify before the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee next month. “The fatal shootings of two American citizens by federal immigration agents in Minneapolis has led to calls for Secretary Noem to resign or be removed,” reports Michigan Public’s Steve Carmody.
GOP Governor’s Race: Businessman Perry Johnson has announced his renewed candidacy in the Republican primary for governor, emphasizing government efficiency and fiscal discipline, including a phased elimination of Michigan’s 4.25% income tax. Johnson previously spent over $7 million of his own money in a 2022 gubernatorial bid that was derailed by invalid nominating petition signatures.
Senate Race Polling: New polling data in the 2026 U.S. Senate primary shows state Senator Mallory McMorrow leading the Democratic field, with 22% support, followed by U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens and Physician Abdul El-Sayed. The survey also tested potential matchups against Republican candidate Mike Rogers, revealing competitive races.
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Yours in political exploration,
Rick Pluta & Zoe Clark
Co-hosts, It’s Just Politics
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