POLITICS

Michigan special election could shift Senate control

PUBLISHED May 4, 2026, 7:56 AM ET

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WASHINGTON — Voters in a central Michigan district will decide the 35th state Senate seat on Tuesday, determining whether Democrats keep their 19-18 majority or produce a 19-19 split. Democrat Chedrick Greene, Republican Jason Tunney and Libertarian Ali Sledz are on the ballot; Greene won the Feb. 3 Democratic primary with 60% of the vote. Michigan's narrow Senate arithmetic means the outcome affects the state's legislative agenda through January; Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II may break ties if a deadlock occurs. The district includes parts of Saginaw, Bay City and Midland, and political observers are watching the race this week for signals about voter sentiment heading into the November midterms.

By Sarah Whitman | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

2022: Democrats win state governorship and both legislative chambers in Michigan.
2024: Democrats lose control of the state House, narrowing legislative margins.
Feb. 3 (year noted in reporting): Chedrick Greene wins the Democratic special primary with 60%.
January 2025: The 35th state Senate seat became vacant after Kristen McDonald Rivet left the post.
This Tuesday: Special election held to fill the seat and decide Senate control.

News Intelligence

The Michigan special election impacts your community. It could shift the state Senate's balance, affecting local laws and policies. Stay informed by following the results on your local news station or online.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 8
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7

Who Benefited

If Democrats retain the seat, they preserve a working majority in the Michigan Senate and greater ability to advance the governor's legislative agenda through January, with the lieutenant governor available to cast tie-breaking votes if necessary.

Who Impacted

A Republican win would deadlock the Senate at 19-19, giving Republicans leverage to withhold votes and impede passage of measures that require a 20-vote threshold, constraining the majority party's agenda in the final months of the governor's term.

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