Michigan Republicans win majority in state House 

Preliminary election results show Democrats will lose majority control of the state Legislature after Michiganders elected Republicans to take charge of the state House.

MICHIGAN—Democrats will soon lose their historic “trifecta” control of state government that includes majorities in both chambers of the state Legislature after Michiganders elected Republicans to take charge of the state House of Representatives in this year’s election.

Democrats still hold the majority in the Senate, which was not up for reelection this year, as well as in the governor’s office, where Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has two years left of her term. But the Republican control in the state House could soon hobble Democratic policies and legislation.

“During this time of transition to the new term, I remain committed to protecting the rights of all Michiganders, building economic opportunity for the middle class, and working with people of all political stripes who come to the table in good faith,” said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks.

Republicans only needed to gain two seats in order to obtain a majority in the state House. A handful of races were still too early to call this week, but the Associated Press has called more than half of the state House districts for Republican candidates—giving them a clear majority.

The new Republican majority—whatever the final numbers—will mark a significant shift from the narrow, 56-54 Democratic advantage in the state House of Representatives this year. It will also likely make it difficult for Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to enact several key aspects of her pro-union, clean energy agenda for the remainder of her term, including additional gun safety reforms.

House Republican Leader Matt Hall said the results show Michiganders “want leaders who put them first, uphold the rule of law, and advocate for accountability at every level of government.”

“Michigan will have a stronger voice fighting for the values of hardworking families and addressing the issues that matter most—safe schools and neighborhoods, an affordable economy, and a government that provides value for dollars,” Hall said in a statement.

The state legislature, soon to be under bipartisan control, will shape (or derail) the future of state policies on key issues that affect the daily lives of millions of Michiganders—like access to affordable healthcare, job creation, reproductive rights, and environmental protections.

It remains to be seen if Democrats will take advantage of the lame-duck session in the next 2 months to pass further priority legislation before Republicans take control of the House.

“Make no mistake. The results of this election represent an opportunity to regroup and rebuild over the coming term,” Democratic House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit) said in a statement. 

The Associated Press contributed to this report. 

READ MORE: New majority on state Supreme Court could change Michiganders’ rights

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