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NewsPBS NewsHourMay 6, 2026United States

Democrat Chedrick Greene Wins Michigan State Senate Special Election

Democrat Chedrick Greene won the special election for Michigan's 35th Senate District, maintaining the Democratic Party's one-seat majority in the state Senate. The seat, which represents parts of Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland, will be up for reelection again in November.

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Why It Matters

The outcome preserves the Democratic Party's 19-18 majority in the Michigan state Senate, allowing them to maintain control over the legislative agenda for the remainder of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's term.

Key Facts

  • Chedrick Greene (Democrat) defeated Jason Tunney (Republican) in the 35th Senate District special election.
  • The victory maintains the Democratic Party's 19-18 majority in the Michigan state Senate.
  • The 35th District includes parts of Saginaw, Bay City, and Midland.
  • The seat was vacant since January 2025 following the departure of Kristen McDonald Rivet.
  • The current term for the seat ends at the conclusion of 2025, requiring another election in November.
  • The Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee invested $250,000 in the race.
  • Republicans criticized the timing of the election, claiming the district lacked representation for nearly 500 days.
  • The Michigan House of Representatives remains under Republican control.

Who's Mentioned

personJason Tunney“Republican candidate who lost the special election.”personAli Sledz“Libertarian candidate in the special election.”personElissa Slotkin“Michigan Senator who campaigned for Democrats.”personChedrick Greene“Democratic winner of the 35th Senate District special election.”personPete Buttigieg“Former Transportation Secretary who campaigned for Democrats.”personGretchen Whitmer“Governor of Michigan.”personKamala Harris“2024 presidential candidate.”location35th Senate District“The Michigan legislative district where the special election occurred.”personDonald Trump“Former President and 2024 presidential candidate.”personKristen McDonald Rivet“Democratic U.S. Representative who previously held the 35th District seat.”