Updates About Elections

State Board of Education President Pamela Pugh has shifted her political aspirations by withdrawing from the U.S. Senate race to pursue the soon-to-be vacant seat left by retiring U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee in Michigan’s 8th U.S. House District. Pugh’s decision to shift gears removes her from the Senate race and positions her as the inaugural Democrat to officially vie for the 8th District seat.

Simultaneously, Matthew Felan, president and CEO of the Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance and incumbent president of the Bay City school board, has signaled contemplation of a potential run for the same congressional seat.

In response to State Representatives Lori Stone and Kevin Coleman each winning their local mayoral races, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has officially called for a special election to fill the two House vacancies. The Governor emphasized the importance of swiftly establishing representation for the 13th and 25th districts through a special primary election slated for January 30, 2024 and the general election on April 16, 2024.The dates of these elections indicate that the House will have an even split of 54-54 seats until at least mid-April. Whitmer expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with the future Representatives in the upcoming 2024 legislative session.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson released the candidates that will appear on the 2024 presidential primary ballot. Under state law, anyone who was advocated by the national news media to be a candidate qualifies to be on the ballot.

For the Democratic Party, President Joe Biden, Dean Phillips, and Marianne Williamson will be represented. The Republican Party will have Doug Burgum, Chris Christie, Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, Asa Hutchinson, Vivek Ramaswamy, and Donald Trump listed. Candidates have until December 8 at 4 p.m. to withdraw their name or file a nominating petition if they would like to be added to the ballot.

The Michigan presidential primary will be on February 27, 2024. Voters can vote for their desired candidate or may choose “uncommitted” as an option. Ballots will be sent by January 13, 2024 for those who are military or overseas. Absent voter ballots are to be printed by January 18, 2024.