KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — It appears that Democrats have not only retained their top posts in Michigan State government and the State Supreme Court, but will likely regain control of both the State Senate and House for the first time in nearly 40 years.
While the counts are close, and the margins narrow, it shows Democrats may have a 56 to 54 edge in the House and at least a 19-19 split in the Senate with the Lt. Governor holding the tiebreaker.
Reelected State Representative Julie Rogers says bipartisan changes in how the state redraws districts and holds elections have leveled the playing field.
“I’m certainly thrilled with across the state, the partisan fairness is going in the right direction. And so I’m hoping that helps carry Democrats across the finish line,” said Rogers who felt that early voting may have also helped democrats this time around.
Holding the majorities will give the new leadership a chance to set the priorities for the state legislature, appoint the chairmanships of committees, and give the Governor fewer obstacles in pursuing her agenda. However it’s a two edged sword because voters will know exactly who to blame if things don’t go well.
Reporting by: John McNeill
