A new MIRS prediction contest points toward Democratic victories across Michigan’s statewide races but still leaves Republicans holding the state House thanks to the strong positioning from Speaker Matt Hall, who has consistently outraised and outfoxed House Democrats.
While the same participants forecast Democratic victories for governor, U.S. Senate and the other statewide constitutional offices, the same insiders noted that the strong positioning from House Republicans stood out.
The exercise offers a snapshot of political expectations but the takeaway is telling: even a favorable statewide environment for Democrats won’t be enough to hand them the House because of the strong record of accomplishments delivered by House Republicans under Hall. That’s quite a vote of confidence in Minority Leader Ranjeev Puri, who apparently will need a much bigger blue wave to graduate from the kids’ table and get some attention.
For Hall and House Republicans, the task remains turning their message on lower costs, tax relief and accountability into victories district by district. The majority is competitive, and the final weeks will matter. It’s clear Republicans would not be in this strong position without Hall.