Michigan 2012 Senate Race

Political Parties |

Michigan Senate Race |

Stabenow vs. Hoekstra |

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Bryant Devine |

5/3/2012 |

Michigan Senate Race

Since 2004, Michigan has swayed between both, parties, unseen since the 1940's. Democratic Governor Granholm, was reelected 57% to 42% margin, in 2006. In addition, Democratic Senator Debbie Stabenow, who won narrowly in 2000, was reelected 57% to 41%. The Democrats won a majority in the State House, held by Republicans since 1994. Moreover, four congressional seats, held by Republicans, were highly competitive. Even so, there were two discordant results over two referenda: Michigan voters approved medical marijuana and banned racial discrimination in college and university admission.

In the 2008 election results showed more movement towards the Democrats. After he financial market crash in mid-September, Obama gained traction and McCain pulled out of the state; nonetheless, Obama carried Michigan 57% to 41%the best showing since 1964. The Democrats again increased their majority in the state house to 67-43 and seized two U.S. House seats. Historically, Michigan has leaned towards Republicans; however, it seemed in 2008 it was more Democratic than any other time in its history.[1]

In 2010, Michigan moved in the other direction. Republican Rick Snyder won the primary and overwhelmed his opponent, Lansing Mayor Virg Barnero, 58%-40%, in the general election to gain the governor's seat. The Republicans gained seats in the State Senate and converted the Democrats big edge in the State House to a 63-47 GOP Advantage. Snyder campaigned as a moderate, shunned divisive cultural issue, and for a restructure of Government. He proposed spending cuts and sought to replace the Business tax with a 6% corporate tax. He said public employees pay should align with the private sector, but asked efforts to pass a right to work law and limited collective bargaining by public employee unions. Economic forecasters were optimistic that Ford, Chrysler,...