Governor Whitmer Calls for Special Election to Fill Vacant Senate Seat

Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan has issued a call for a special election to fill a vacant seat in the Michigan Senate, following the resignation of Kristen McDonald Rivet, who was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 8th Congressional District. The special election is necessary to ensure that the people of the 35th Senate District have representation in the state legislature. Governor Whitmer emphasizes the importance of addressing pressing issues such as job creation, economic growth, education, and infrastructure.

Key Takeaways:

• Governor Gretchen Whitmer has called for a special election to fill the vacant 35th Senate District seat, which covers parts of Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties.
• The special primary election is scheduled for February 3, 2026, and the general election will be held on May 5, 2026.
• The vacancy arose from the resignation of Kristen McDonald Rivet, who was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 8th Congressional District.
• Governor Whitmer emphasizes the importance of addressing pressing issues such as job creation, economic growth, education, and infrastructure.
• The special election is necessary to ensure that the 35th Senate District has representation in the state legislature.
• The governor looks forward to working with the next state senator from the district to tackle various issues and advance the state's interests.

Statistics:

• 35th Senate District covers parts of Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties in Michigan.
• Special primary election is scheduled for February 3, 2026.
• General election will be held on May 5, 2026.
• Kristen McDonald Rivet was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for the 8th Congressional District.

Sources:

• [Michigan Governor's Press Release, August 29, 2025]
• [Letter from Governor Gretchen Whitmer to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, August 29, 2025]
• [Michigan.gov, Elections Information]