Republicans Aim to Flip Central Michigan's Congressional Seats
- Two congressional seats in central Michigan are open after Democrats announced they would not seek reelection.
- Republicans are mounting strong campaigns in both districts, focusing on issues like immigration, inflation, and national security.
- The outcomes of these elections could significantly impact party control in Congress, marking them as critical battlegrounds.
In the 2024 elections, central Michigan is witnessing fierce competition for two open congressional seats. The 8th Congressional District opened up when Democrat Dan Kildee decided not to seek reelection, leading Republicans to see an opportunity to gain ground. Former news anchor Paul Junge is running against freshman state senator Kristen McDonald Rivet, focusing on economic and immigration issues. Meanwhile, in the 7th District, Democrat Curtis Hertel Jr. and Republican Tom Barrett are vying for the seat vacated by Elissa Slotkin. Hertel portrays himself as a relatable candidate while attacking Barrett, whom he labels as an anti-abortion extremist. Barrett counters by addressing inflation and national security concerns. Both races are highly competitive, attracting significant national attention and financial investment, reflecting a battleground crucial for party control in Congress. These races exemplify the shifting political landscape in Michigan as Republicans attempt to widen their majority.