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Chedrick Greene Wins Special Election For 35th District Senate Seat That Has Been Open About A Year
Russ Survance
Wed, 06 May 2026 12:23:29 EDT
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In mid-Michigan, voters have filled a long-vacant state Senate seat. Chedrick Greene has won the special election for the 35th District, restoring representation to parts of Saginaw, Bay, and Midland counties after more than a year.
Greene, a Marine veteran and local fire captain, campaigned on lowering costs for residents, including tax relief for low-income households, expanding access to affordable housing, and protecting programs like Medicaid, free pre-K, and school meals.
His victory keeps Democrats in control of the Michigan Senate. Greene also becomes the first African American elected to represent the district.
Republican candidate Jason Tunney, an attorney and former prosecutor, focused his campaign on reducing taxes and increasing government transparency. Greene says Tunney conceded the race and thanked him for his campaign.
The seat had been open since early 2025, when former state senator Kristen McDonald Rivet left to serve in Congress. Governor Gretchen Whitmer called the special election after legal pressure from residents seeking representation.
Tuesday's result is temporary. Voters will return to the polls in November for a full-term decision, but the outcome could influence legislative negotiations and the state budget in the months ahead.