Democrats take control of state government in Michigan

Democratic victories in the state of Michigan achieve majorities in both state Senate and House

ESCANABA -- Democratic candidates have landed a decisive victory in the state of Michigan. Democratic leadership has gained control of both the state legislature and executive branch, with a majority achieved in both the State Senate and House of Representatives.

In the Michigan State Senate, Democrats secured 19 seats. Republicans secured 14 seats. The seats gained by the Democrats exceeded the threshold required for a functional majority to be claimed for Democrats.

In the Michigan House of Representatives, Democrats secured 51 seats. Republicans secured 43 seats. This outcome for the Democrats exceeded the threshold needed to claim a functional majority in the House as well.

In the race for governor, Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson was declared the prospective winner against Republican candidate John James, securing 54.5% of the statewide vote to 43.8%, with 98% of precincts reporting, according to the Associated Press. Benson currently serves as Secretary of State and will transition to the position of the Governor in January.

The Democratic Party was also able to maintain control over major positions with Democratic candidates winning the races for Secretary of State and Attorney General. Garlin Gilchrist II won the Secretary of State race with 53.7% of the vote against Anthony Forlini. Eli Savit won the Attorney General race with 52.5% of the vote against Doug Lloyd.

These victories mark a shift in the balance of power in the legislative branch towards a return to where it was in 2023 and 2024, when the party held both chambers of the Legislature and the governor's office, allowing Democratic leadership to set the legislative calendar, chair appropriations committees, and advance key policy priorities on labor, education funding, healthcare and environmental regulations without relying on split-chamber negotiations.

While statewide totals resulted in the major Democratic victories across the state, the Upper Peninsula maintained its distinct political landscape. The U.P. favored conservative candidates in local and district legislation.

Republican incumbent Dave Prestin retained control of the 38th Michigan Senate District against Democrat candidate Kelly VanGinhoven and independent candidate Sara Cambensy.

Republican Larry Johnson won the 108th House District against Democrat candidate Rachel Keys.

In the 109th House District, Karl Bohnak lost to Anna Aho Rink. This flip is one of the seats that have led to the projected Democratic majority in the Michigan House.

Party leaders from both sides of the aisle indicated that post-election transitions will begin immediately, with caucus elections for Speaker of the House and Senate Majority Leader expected in the coming days.