Downriver politics and the state house races to keep an eye on

Infrastructure and green energy are being discussed as issues in Downriver communities, according to a state reporter covering that area.

While politics are getting more polarized in this country, there are still many areas at the state level that are toss-ups. A lot of those House districts exist in Downriver Detroit.

A number of those seats — particularly the 27th, 28th, 29th and 31st State House seats — are likely going to be very close races.

Much of the focus for candidates in that area has been on abortion access and the economy. But the broader politics of Downriver are changing — with more voters supporting Republicans and the Democratic base not being as solid as it once was.

“Abortion and the economy are the two big talking points, with Democrats really running on women’s reproductive rights and Republicans driving home inflation and rising costs at the grocery store and the gas pump.” — Elena Durnbaugh, journalist


Listen: Why Michigan’s newly drawn 29th District race will be close.

 


Guest

Elena Durnbaugh is a journalist at Gongwer Michigan who has been covering some political races in Downriver. She says issues circling national politics, like abortion and the economy, are top of mind for Downriver voters.

“Abortion and the economy are the two big talking points, with Democrats really running on women’s reproductive rights and Republicans driving home inflation and rising costs at the grocery store and the gas pump,” says Durnbaugh.

Trusted, accurate, up-to-date.

WDET strives to make our journalism accessible to everyone. As a public media institution, we maintain our journalistic integrity through independent support from readers like you. If you value WDET as your source of news, music and conversation, please make a gift today.

Donate today »

Authors

  • Dynamic and diverse voices. News, politics, community and the issues that define our region. Hosted by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Stephen Henderson, Detroit Today brings you fresh and perceptive views weekdays at 9 am and 7 pm.
  • Sam Corey is a producer for The Metro on 101.9 WDET. In that role, he goes out in search of fun and interesting stories for radio. He enjoys salsa dancing — and actual salsa.