The Democrats’ success in 2022 was buoyed by many things including new legislative maps drawn by an independent redistricting commission, which leveled the playing field after years of Republican- favored boundaries according to the Detroit Free Press. Proposal 3 (Reproductive Freedom for All) was also on the ballot, pushing voters to the polls. Additionally, Whitmer’s decisive 11-point win over her Republican opponent provided a significant down-ballot boost to Democratic candidates.

MORE NEWS: Thanksgiving Feast in Detroit Taming Bears, 23-20

But with the political climate evolving, with unhappy voters due to high inflation and other concerns, and abortion not on the ballot this time to galvanize voters in the state, the Democrats are facing a tougher challenge in 2024 as Republicans gear up to reclaim the Michigan House in the November elections.

And they have financial backing from the the Michigan House Republican Campaign Committee (HRCC), to do it.

Rep. Bill Schuette (R-Midland) Chair of the HRCC calls the state the “most flip-able” legislative chamber in the country. The campaign also reportedly took in $400,000 more than their Democratic counterparts in the last reporting period.

Schuette told M-Live, “Michiganders recognize the need for a future House Republican majority to serve as a check and balance on the Democrats’ extreme race to the left.” He added, “You can see this reflected by the continued investment in our caucus and another impressive fundraising quarter.”

On the other side of the aisle, House Speaker Joe Tate (D-Detroit), is still confident about the upcoming elections and said, “Our supporters and voters are unified and ready to continue the work that lies ahead in both maintaining and growing our Democratic majority,.” He added, “Our message is one that continues to resonate with Michiganders and many others across the country as well. We’re focused on continuing to deliver for everyday Michiganders in every corner of our state.”

Republicans eye a comeback: can the GOP turn the tide?

The Republican Party sees a real opportunity to flip the Michigan House and aim to capitalize in districts where former President Donald Trump secured wins but are currently held by Democrats. These areas, including parts of Downriver and Macomb County, could be pivotal in deciding the House’s control.

MORE NEWS: Democratic Exodus? Michigan’s Arab Vote Sends a Loud Message

Key to the Republicans’ strategy is their criticism of the Democrats’ economic policies, particularly around the state’s development deals for electric vehicles and the repeal of the “right-to-work” law. By framing the Democrats as economically out of touch, Republicans hope to sway voters in competitive districts.