Whitmer’s influence at risk as Michigan House may flip Republican
Republicans need to flip two seats to control Michigan House
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is not running for re-election this year, but her influence may wane if the Michigan House of Representatives turns Republican in November. Whitmer, who has gained national attention, could become a lame duck for the last two years of her term. Republicans can regain control by flipping just two seats, and four key races with Democratic incumbents will be pivotal in determining this outcome.
Democrats currently hold a narrow 56-54 edge in the House. Republicans hope to reverse the Democratic majority established in 2022 when Whitmer’s re-election led to a Democratic sweep of Michigan’s legislature for the first time in four decades. Following the election, Democrats held significant power in Lansing, but Republicans believe the state has had enough of Democratic rule.
State Rep. Bill G. Schuette, chair of the House Republican Campaign Committee, criticised Democratic policies, citing a drastic cut in school safety funding and a ban on natural gas as examples of how Democrats are out of touch. If voters are dissatisfied, the upcoming election could curtail Whitmer’s rise within the Democratic Party.
Michigan hasn’t had a Republican Senator in over 20 years — This year, it’s in play. Trump won the state in 2016 and is competitive again this year. Mike Rogers is the Republican nominee and Trump endorsed candidate.
The US Senate is currently 51-49 … we need to win a few of… https://t.co/3Hc2BIvCq8 pic.twitter.com/lEecwAC3uC
— Wall Street Silver (@WallStreetSilv) August 25, 2024
Whitmer had been considered a potential candidate to replace President Biden. After Biden’s poor debate performance in June, which preceded the release of Whitmer’s memoir, “True Gretch,” there was speculation about her presidential aspirations. Although she declined to join Harris as a running mate, she might be eyeing a future presidential run. However, if Harris wins in November and seeks re-election, Whitmer’s presidential ambitions might be delayed until 2032, long after her gubernatorial term has ended.
A source from the Michigan House Republicans’ campaign predicts a potential gain of five to twelve seats in November. Former Republican Gov. Rick Snyder has re-engaged in state politics, assisting in raising funds and advising candidates to focus on practical solutions rather than divisive rhetoric. This summer, House Republicans introduced a 10-point plan, “Mission for Michigan,” prioritising affordability as their top objective.
What Other Media Are Saying
- AOL reports that four Michigan races could potentially sway the outcome of the 2024 election, with Republicans feeling optimistic about regaining control, despite the 2022 wave year for Democrats. (Read more)
- The New York Post reports that four Michigan races could make Gov. Gretchen Whitmer a lame-duck governor by potentially flipping her party’s control in the state’s lower chamber. (Read more)
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
What happens if the Michigan House of Representatives flips red in November?
Gov. Whitmer will become a lame duck for the final two years of her tenure.
How many seats do Republicans need to flip to retake the Michigan House?
Republicans need to flip just two seats to retake the Michigan House.
Which races are crucial for determining the Michigan House majority?
There are four races with Democratic incumbents that are crucial for determining the majority.
What notable plan have Michigan House Republicans released?
House Republicans released a 10-point plan called the ‘Mission for Michigan.’
What is the top priority in the ‘Mission for Michigan’ plan?
The top priority is to ‘Make Michigan more affordable.’
