McCall Hamilton Advocacy and Public Affairs

Updates About Elections

Ballot Proposals Brewing for the 2026 Election Cycle

Update: Apr 1-14, 2025

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.

2026 Michigan Governor's Race Includes Many Familiar Faces

Update: Apr 1-14, 2025

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.

Hillary Scholten Opts for U.S. House Reelection, Bows Out of Senate Race

Update: Mar 19-31, 2025

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) has announced she will not run for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat in 2026, opting instead to seek reelection to the U.S. House. Scholten, who represents Michigan’s 3rd Congressional district, cited affordable health care, cost reductions, and the future of our state’s children as her key priorities for West Michigan residents.

With Scholten out, several other Democrats and Republicans are still considering a bid for the Senate seat:

Democrats Considering a Run:

  • Attorney General Dana Nessel
  • U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (Birmingham)
  • U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (Bay City)
  • Sen. Mallory McMorrow (Royal Oak)
  • Abdul El-Sayed, Wayne County Health Officer

Republicans Considering a Run:

  • U.S. Rep. John James (Shelby Township)
  • U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga (Zeeland)
  • Former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (White Lake)
  • 2022 GOP gubernatorial candidate Tudor Dixon
  • 2022 GOP gubernatorial candidate Kevin Rinke
  • State Sen. Jonathan Lindsey (Coldwater)

As the race takes shape, Michigan voters can expect a highly competitive contest for the open Senate seat.