Updates About Elections

Governor Gretchen Whitmer confirmed recently that a special election will be called to fill the vacant 35th Senate District seat, which has remained unoccupied since U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City) was elected to Congress last fall. While Whitmer acknowledged the election is forthcoming, no official timeline has been announced, and her office continues to review potential dates. The vacancy has drawn criticism from Republicans and local business groups urging action, as it marks the longest unresolved legislative vacancy during the governor’s tenure. The outcome of the special election could impact the current 19-18 Democratic majority in the Senate, with the possibility of a 19-19 tie if Republicans win the seat. The 35th Senate District is considered politically competitive and includes the tri-cities Bay City, Midland, and Saginaw.

After a quiet 2024 election cycle with no statewide ballot proposals, early indicators suggest Michigan voters will face several proposals in 2026. At a minimum, they will be asked whether to convene a constitutional convention—a question required every 16 years by the Michigan Constitution, and one voters have consistently rejected in the past. Meanwhile, new petition drives are already underway, including a proposed constitutional amendment that would require proof of citizenship to register to vote. The proposal echoes recent national conversations and has sparked debate, with supporters citing election security and critics warning of potential barriers to voting.

Additional proposals could also make the ballot if enough signatures are gathered. These include efforts to expand Michigan’s Bottle Bill, introduce ranked choice voting, and remove the dormant ban on same-sex marriage from the Constitution. Some groups are also eyeing potential referendums or amendments on taxes and minimum wage. With over 440,000 valid signatures needed and stricter rules around how they’re collected, getting a proposal on the ballot won’t be easy or cheap. Still, if even a few proposals make it through, this would signal that ballot issues are back in a big way for Michigan voters.

Our state’s 2026 gubernatorial election is taking shape with high-profile candidates from across the political spectrum announcing their campaigns well ahead of the primary. So far, bids have been launched by a wide array of candidates, including department heads, sitting legislators, and local officials. Below is a snapshot of those who have officially declared their candidacy:

¶Declared Gubernatorial Candidates:

• John James (Republican) – U.S. Representative (Shelby Township)
• Aric Nesbitt (Republican) – Michigan Senate Minority Leader (Lawton)
• Jocelyn Benson (Democrat) – Michigan Secretary of State
• Garlin Gilchrist II (Democrat) – Michigan Lieutenant Governor
• Chris Swanson (Democrat) – Genesee County Sheriff
• Mike Duggan (Independent) – Mayor of Detroit

See Also: HILLARY SCHOLTEN OPTS FOR U.S. HOUSE REELECTION, BOWS OUT OF SENATE RACE for a list of candidates running for the open Michigan U.S. Senate seat in 2026.