Editorial Note: As of 11 pm, when the Michigan Chronicle went to print, the current results, according to the Detroit Department of Elections, are the results reported at the time.
Michigan’s Senate race remains a focal point for voters and political watchers alike. With over half of the votes counted, Democratic candidate Elissa Slotkin slightly falls behind with 48.0% of the vote, totaling 726,131 ballots. Her Republican opponent, Mike Rogers, leads the way with 49.2% and 743,482 votes. Slotkin’s campaign, grounded in her commitment to healthcare reform, economic equity, and public safety, has resonated with Michiganders across the state. Both candidates are watching the results closely, aware that the outcome of this Senate race could shift the balance of power and shape the future of key policies affecting Michigan’s communities.
Tuesday night, the Motor City Sound Board was filled with supporters and donors rallying behind Kamala Harris for President, Elissa Slotkin for Michigan’s Senate seat, and the Michigan Democratic Party at their election night event.
It’s no secret that Detroit, home to a politically active community, is playing a major role in Michigan’s turnout. Detroit voters showed up in significant numbers, determined to make their voices heard. For many, this election represents an opportunity to select leaders who understand the urgent needs of their communities and are ready to advocate for long-overdue changes. Slotkin’s current lead reflects her appeal to Michigan’s middle-class families, veterans, and small businesses, who have been at the center of her policy priorities. Her hands-on approach and commitment to addressing practical, everyday issues have resonated widely with Michiganders who want leaders focused on real solutions.
Slotkin’s background brings unique experience to the table. A third-term U.S. Representative with roots in Michigan’s 7th District, she has also served with the CIA and Pentagon, making her a strong voice on national security issues. Yet, her campaign’s focus remains firmly on Michigan. She is vocal about the need for accessible healthcare, economic support for working families, and investment in Michigan’s local businesses. This mix of expertise and local commitment has made her a compelling candidate for many voters who prioritize both stability and change.
In an interview with the Michigan Chronicle, Slotkin outlined her top priorities for improving the lives of Black Michiganders, especially in Detroit. “What I’ve heard from parents, teachers, business owners, and community and faith leaders is that people have been looking for a real plan to break down housing and health disparities, economic inequality, and increase access to capital,” Slotkin said. She highlighted the issue of affordable housing, noting that homeownership should be within reach for all Michiganders. Her push for equitable economic policies reflects the community’s call for leaders who will tackle the persistent disparities that have affected Detroit and other Michigan communities.
Slotkin also pointed to the importance of investing in Michigan’s young people. “In every conversation I’ve had, our kids come up,” she noted, emphasizing the need for programs that expand opportunities in education, support childcare, and reduce the burden on families. Her stance on educational funding resonates with many Detroit families who want a fairer distribution of resources for their schools. Slotkin’s focus on early childhood development and the Child Tax Credit reflects her understanding of the need for family-focused policies that directly benefit Michigan’s working-class households.
Healthcare has been another central issue in Slotkin’s campaign. She has long supported protections for the Affordable Care Act, working to address healthcare disparities and reduce the high costs of prescription medications. For many Black communities in Michigan, access to affordable healthcare is not just a policy issue but a daily necessity. Slotkin’s stance on healthcare reform, and her consistent work to protect affordable coverage, speaks directly to families in Detroit and beyond who are tired of being overlooked in this critical area.
Economic empowerment, especially for Detroit’s Black entrepreneurs, is another priority Slotkin has pledged to tackle. She emphasized the need to direct federal resources to underserved communities and ensure Black-owned businesses have fair access to capital and support. “As we work to secure more federal funding, we have to make sure our Black business community has the tools it needs to thrive,” Slotkin explained. By addressing barriers that limit economic growth in Black communities, she aims to create lasting opportunities for prosperity across Detroit.
Gun violence prevention has become one of the defining issues in Slotkin’s platform. Representing a district that has endured two mass school shootings—at Michigan State University and Oxford High School—Slotkin is familiar with the painful impact of gun violence on communities. She has championed legislation supporting safe firearm storage, universal background checks, red flag laws, and an assault weapons ban. Slotkin acknowledges that gun violence does not stop at school doors but affects neighborhoods, churches, and families. Her commitment to reducing this violence speaks to Detroit residents who have been demanding stronger safety measures in their communities.
As the evening progressed, Michigan’s turnout numbers reflected an electorate determined to make its voice heard. In cities like Detroit, voters lined up to participate in the democratic process, aware of the importance of this moment. Black voters, who historically face barriers to voting, came out in strong numbers, driven by a commitment to make their voices count. Their choices carry weight, especially in determining the leadership of a state known for its pivotal role in national elections.
This election speaks to much more than a choice between candidates. It signifies a stand for values that will shape Michigan’s future and impact issues like access to healthcare, educational resources, economic growth, and public safety. As ballots continue to be counted, it becomes clear that Michiganders are seeking leaders who will advocate for real change.
For Black Michiganders, this election is about creating a future where representation means action, not just words. The turnout numbers tell a story of resilience and determination as communities come together to push for leaders who reflect their priorities. While results are still coming in, the sense of urgency remains, underscoring the need for continued participation and vigilance in the pursuit of justice and opportunity.
The impact of this election will be felt long after the final votes are tallied. This election night, Michigan voters made a clear choice about the type of state they envision—a Michigan that values equity, supports families, and prioritizes public safety.
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