Michigan voters are gearing up to cast their ballots in the state's primary elections, which will determine the candidates for the highly coveted open U.S. Senate seat and several competitive U.S. House races. The Senate race has drawn significant attention, with Democrats rallying behind U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin and Republicans supporting former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, who received an endorsement from Donald Trump earlier this year.
The Senate seat, left vacant by the retirement of Sen. Debbie Stabenow, has attracted a crowded field of candidates. Slotkin faces actor Hill Harper in the Democratic primary, while Rogers competes against former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash and physician Sherry O’Donnell in the Republican race. Despite businessman Sandy Pensler dropping out and endorsing Rogers, his name will still appear on the ballot.
With Democrats holding a slim majority in the Senate and Republicans in the House, Michigan's races are crucial in determining the balance of power. The state's swing state status adds to the significance of these contests, with party control at stake from the top of the ballot down to the state Legislature.
Several U.S. House seats are also up for grabs in the primaries, including the open 7th Congressional District and the 8th Congressional District following Rep. Dan Kildee's retirement. Notable candidates in these races include state Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet, former TV anchor Paul Junge, and incumbent U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten.
Down-ballot races across the state will also be decided on Tuesday, with control of the state House of Representatives up for grabs in November. Democrats, who gained control of both chambers and the governor's office in 2022, will be defending their majorities in the upcoming election.
As candidates gear up for the general election in November, national groups have already reserved millions for advertisements, setting the stage for a highly competitive campaign season in Michigan.
