The day after the election in Michigan, it was clear that the Republicans retained their governorship. But what are some of the reasons and factors that led to this result? While we don’t know yet how this will affect the state’s political landscape, I think it’s important to take a look at what happened.
Michigan GOP Keeps its Majority on Governor’s Office
The Republican Party of Michigan won a solid victory in the state’s gubernatorial election, holding on to their majority by defeating Democrat Gretchen Whitmer. The race was close, but GOP incumbent Rick Snyder managed to pull out a win with 50.1% of the vote to Whitmer’s 47.8%. In what was expected to be an interesting matchup, Snyder emerged victorious after campaigning on his record as governor and his promise to continue cutting taxes and balancing the state budget. Snyder is now set to serve a second term, potentially making him one of the longest-serving governors in America.
While the GOP held onto their majority, there were some changes across the statehouse. Democrats picked up two seats in the House of Representatives – giving them control of that chamber – while Republicans lost one seat in the Senate. As a result, Michigan becomes only the fourth state where both parties have at least partial control of each house of its legislature.
The GOP Holds Its Majority in the Senate
With Michigan’s election results in, the GOP holds its majority in the United States Senate. The Republican Party won a net of two seats in Michigan, giving them 51 out of 100 seats. This is their third consecutive victory in a state that has been trending more and more Republican. The two newly elected Republicans are Brian Schoenberg and Patrick Colbeck. Brian Schoenberg won a seat that was previously held by Democrat Debbie Stabenow. Patrick Colbeck won a seat vacated by Republican John McCain. These victories will give the GOP control of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, as well as key positions on other committees.
Michigan Democrats Come in Last Place in Governor’s Race
Michigan Republicans maintained their grip on the Governor’s Office, holding onto the office for another term despite low approval ratings and a very competitive race. Democratic challenger Gretchen Whitmer came in last place, losing by a wide margin to Republican incumbent Rick Snyder. Snyder has been heavily criticized for his handling of the Flint water crisis and other issues in Michigan. The Democrats are hoping to make inroads in the state legislature this year and mount a challenge against Snyder in 2020.
Why do Republicans Win So Often in Midwestern States?
Republicans have a longstanding advantage in the Midwest, and they showed yet again why in Michigan’s gubernatorial election. The GOP candidate, Bill Schuette, easily won against the Democrat, Gretchen Whitmer. Schuette ran on a platform of conservative policies and he was supported by President Donald Trump.
Schuette will be the next governor of Michigan and he will have a lot of power to help shape the state’s future. He is pro-business and he wants to reduce taxes. He also wants to improve education and infrastructure.
Whitmer running for governor in Michigan was her first time running for office. She is a former attorney general and she has been involved in politics for many years. Whitmer campaigned on issues like healthcare and climate change but she didn’t do as well as expected against Schuette.
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