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NewsReutersMay 5, 2026United States

Michigan Special Election for 35th Senate District

A special election in Michigan's 35th Senate District will determine which party holds the majority in the state Senate for the remainder of the current term. The outcome of this race is being closely watched as a potential indicator of voter sentiment ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.

electionsMichiganstate senatepoliticsmidterms
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Why It Matters

The election result will decide whether Democrats maintain their 19-18 majority or force a tie in the Michigan state Senate, directly impacting the passage of legislation for the remainder of the year.

Key Facts

  • The 35th state Senate district seat has been vacant since January 2025.
  • Democrats currently hold a 19-18 majority in the Michigan state Senate.
  • A victory for Chedrick Greene (D) maintains the Democratic majority.
  • A victory for Jason Tunney (R) results in a tied Senate, requiring the Lieutenant Governor to cast tiebreaking votes.
  • The term for this seat expires at the end of 2025, requiring another election in November.
  • The district includes parts of Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland.
  • The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee invested $250,000 in the race.
  • Republicans argue the election was delayed by Governor Whitmer, leaving the district unrepresented for nearly 500 days.

Who's Mentioned

personJason Tunney“Republican candidate for the 35th state Senate district.”personAli Sledz“Libertarian candidate for the 35th state Senate district.”personGarlin Gilchrist II“Lieutenant Governor of Michigan and potential tiebreaking vote.”personElissa Slotkin“Michigan Senator.”organizationDemocratic Legislative Campaign Committee“Invested $250,000 to support Chedrick Greene.”personChedrick Greene“Democratic candidate for the 35th state Senate district.”personPete Buttigieg“Former Transportation Secretary.”personGretchen Whitmer“Governor of Michigan.”personKristen McDonald Rivet“Democratic U.S. Representative and former occupant of the 35th district seat.”location35th state Senate district“The district encompassing Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland.”