In addition to the Presidential Primary on Tuesday, three Michigan House districts held special general elections to fill vacancies. The three districts that held special elections were the 75th in the city of Grand Rapids, the 80th in Allegan County and the 82nd district in Lapeer County. With these seats filled, only one vacancy remains in the 110 member House of Representatives following the resignation of Derek Miller (D-Warren). Miller was appointed Macomb County Treasurer at the end of January. The special election to fill the remainder of the current term in that now vacant 28th House District will take place later this year to coincide with the August primary and November general elections.
On Tuesday in Grand Rapids, democrat David LaGrand was elected as State Representative, taking over for former Rep. Brandon Dillion, who now works for the Michigan Democratic Party. LaGrand won with over 77% of the vote.
In Allegan County, republican Mary Whiteford was elected as State Representative, taking over for former Rep. Cindy Gamrat. Whiteford was elected with nearly 64% of the vote.
In Lapeer County, republican Gary Howell was elected as State Representative, taking over for former Rep. Todd Courser. Howell won with just under 59% of the vote.
LaGrand, Whiteford and Howell will serve out the remainder of the current term, through the end of 2016, and are expected to run for re-election in the fall.
Chris Hackbarth is the League’s director of state affairs. He can be reached at 517-908-0304
and [email protected].