Skip to main content
Michigan’s nonpartisan, nonprofit news source

We need your vote!

During this important election year, Bridge readers like you know that high-quality journalism like ours is more critical than ever. There’s a lot on the line, and we’re working daily to deliver the information you need to prepare you for November’s election. Can we count on your vote of confidence in our newsroom? Donate today!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate

Suburban women lead charge into Michigan Legislature

Across Michigan but largely in suburban areas, women grabbed a bigger voice in the state legislature: The number of women in the state senate will nearly triple (from four to 11) following Tuesday’s election. In the house, that figure will rise from 33 to 42 in January.

Much of the gains were seen in two areas: Oakland County and Metro Lansing. All 5 state reps in the Lansing area are now women, replacing five men. In Oakland County, women took over five house seats.

In the senate, 10 seats in Metro Detroit flipped from men to women.

In a couple cases, men took over seats held by women, including four state house seat and four senate seats. But those changes were swamped by the number of women taking over seats previously held by men.

The changes echo what was seen in the Michigan’s congressional delegation, where women picked up three seats to hold five of the 14 seats in Congress. Democrats Brenda Lawrence, D-Southfield, and Debbie Dingell, D-Dearborn will soon be joined by fellow Dems Haley Stevens, Rochester Hills, Rashida Tlaib, Detroit, and Elissa Slotkin, Holly.


How impactful was this article for you?

Only donate if we've informed you about important Michigan issues

See what new members are saying about why they donated to Bridge Michigan:

  • “In order for this information to be accurate and unbiased it must be underwritten by its readers, not by special interests.” - Larry S.
  • “Not many other media sources report on the topics Bridge does.” - Susan B.
  • “Your journalism is outstanding and rare these days.” - Mark S.

If you want to ensure the future of nonpartisan, nonprofit Michigan journalism, please become a member today. You, too, will be asked why you donated and maybe we'll feature your quote next time!

Pay with VISA Pay with MasterCard Pay with American Express Pay with PayPal Donate Now