Governor Gretchen Whitmer has called a Michigan special election for the 35th Senate District covering Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties after Kristen McDonald Rivet’s resignation to take a U.S. House seat.

Whitmer Issues Formal Call for Michigan Senate Special Election

In a press release issued yesterday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has ordered a special election to fill the vacant seat in Michigan’s 35th Senate District following the resignation of Kristen McDonald Rivet, who recently won election to the U.S. House of Representatives from Michigan’s 8th Congressional District.

The governor’s letter to Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, dated August 29, 2025, sets the election timeline: candidates must file affidavits and petitions by September 30, 2025, the special primary election will be held on February 3, 2026, and the general election on May 5, 2026.

“This election is about ensuring the people of Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties have strong representation in Lansing,” Whitmer said. “We have a lot of good work to get done before the end of next year. Michiganders want us to create jobs and grow the economy, invest in schools and boost literacy rates, and fix those damn roads.”

Election Timeline and Candidate Filing Requirements

Under Michigan law, candidates from the Democratic and Republican parties must submit affidavits of identity and nominating petitions, or pay a filing fee, no later than 4:00 p.m. on September 30, 2025. The special primary election is scheduled for February 3, 2026, with the general election to follow on May 5, 2026.

The timing of the election places it squarely in the 2026 political cycle, potentially influencing statewide momentum ahead of the fall general election. Analysts note that special elections in swing districts often serve as early indicators of voter sentiment.

Background on Kristen McDonald Rivet and the 35th Senate District

The vacancy was created after Kristen McDonald Rivet, a Democrat from Bay City, resigned her state Senate seat upon being sworn into Congress earlier this year. Rivet’s move marks a shift in representation for the region, which has been politically competitive in recent cycles.

The 35th District covers parts of Bay, Midland, and Saginaw counties—a diverse mix of industrial, agricultural, and suburban communities. The district has swung between Democratic and Republican control, making the special election a test case for both parties’ messaging on jobs, infrastructure, and education.

Expert Perspective on Michigan’s Legislative Balance

Political analysts suggest the special election could carry outsized importance for control of the Michigan Senate. The chamber currently has a slim Democratic majority. Depending on turnout and candidate selection, the 35th District contest could influence the chamber’s legislative agenda.

“Special elections can sometimes swing momentum in surprising ways, especially in mid-cycle years,” said Matt Grossmann, political scientist at Michigan State University. “Given the competitiveness of the Bay-Midland-Saginaw region, both parties will treat this race as a proving ground for 2026.”?No verified source found?

Recent Michigan Political Developments

The announcement comes at a time when state lawmakers are preparing for debates over economic investment, road infrastructure, and public school funding. With Whitmer entering her final years in office, her administration is working to cement priorities on education and infrastructure.

The contest for the 35th District will likely amplify debates over Michigan’s future workforce, quality of life, and the state’s role in national politics.

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