Through the primary election on August 2, on every Tuesday and Thursday on the MLC Blog we will be highlighting races for which the primary is the key race due to the voter base.  Candidate’s website and professional information is listed when available.

District Overview

The 50^th House District is located in Genesee County and includes Burton, Grand Blanc, Grand Blanc Township, and Mundy Township.  On paper it seems like the Republicans should have a chance to capture this seat, but it is a long shot with a 55% Democratic base.

Commentary

With term limits preventing Representative Charles Smiley (D-Grand Blanc) from running for re-election, the winner of the competitive Democratic primary will likely go on to serve in the state house.  Democratic candidate Tim Sneller has worked in the state legislature for thirty years, including a legislative aide to current state Representative Charles Smiley.  He has gained a number of endorsements from local unions and associations and is heavily favored to win, at this time.

Democratic Candidates:

• Raymond Freiberger – Vietnam veteran, Bronze Star recipient, former IRS agent, small business owner.
  • Endorsement – Small Business Association of Michigan.
• Tim Sneller – Legislative staffer.
  • Endorsements – UAW, Greater Flint AFL-CIO, Michigan Farm Bureau, Sheet Metal Workers Local Union 7, Bricklayers Local Union 2, Genesee Lapeer Shiawassee Building Trades Council, Iron Workers Local Union 25, Laborers’ Local 1075, and IBEW Local 948.

Republican Candidates:

• Michael Matheny – former Mayor of Grand Blanc.
• Jackie Seal – Graduate student.

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