The battle for control of the Michigan House of Representatives comes down to two key special elections in the Detroit area, as voters head to the polls this Tuesday. The outcomes will likely determine whether Democrats can regain a majority they lost when two legislators exited for mayoral roles, creating a 54-54 House split, according to The Detroit News.
Democrats are hoping to secure victories in the 13th District, with Mai Xiong aiming to become the first Hmong American elected to the chamber, and in the 25th District, where Peter Herzberg looks to follow in the footsteps of his cousin, Kevin Coleman. Republican challengers Ronald Singer in the 13th and Josh Powell in the 25th, despite facing steep odds in these Democratic strongholds, are not backing down just yet, Michigan Advance reported.
In a show of support for the Democratic candidates, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has endorsed both Xiong and Herzberg. Xiong's platform includes a raft of issues from living wages to protecting reproductive rights, while Herzberg is focused on environmental concerns and improving public resources.
Meanwhile, Singer and Powell, hold promises to lower taxes and regulations, an obviously appealing message to their conservative bases. Powell's campaign website elaborates on his commitment to education choice, and public safety, a reflection of his experience as a Military Police officer and his degree in criminal justice. The stakes are high, with Abhi Rahman, communications director for the Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, highlighting the importance of holding onto the majority for the advancement of the state agenda, The Detroit News articulated.
As per AP reports, turnout is anticipated to be significantly lower than in general elections, with past contests showing a sharp drop in voter participation for special elections. Regardless, the results are poised to have a substantial impact on the political landscape in Michigan for the remainder of the year, and potentially beyond, as the winners look toward the November general elections.
