Through the general election on November 6, the MLC Blog will be highlighting races generally considered swing seats, ones either party could win because of the voter base.  Candidate’s website and professional information is listed when available.

 District Overview

The 71^st House District is located in Eaton County.

 Commentary

Representative Tom Barrett (R) is foregoing running for a third term in order to run for State Senate. This house district has a 52% Republican base.  In 2016 the district voted for Trump, but in 2012 voted for Obama. Likewise, in 2014 they voted for Democratic Gubernatorial candidate Mark Schauer, but in 2010 voted for Republican Rick Snyder. Both House candidates are actively involved in their communities and have served on various boards and volunteered. This district is uniquely impacted by state government as it has one of the highest numbers of state employees as residents with it being located just west of downtown Lansing. Democrats are excited about the opportunity to flip this seat which they won in 2012 but lost in 2014.

Democratic Candidate:

• Angela Witwer – Small business owner, served on the boards of the McLaren Greater Lansing Foundation, Waverly Community Schools Board of Education, Volunteers of America, and the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce Economic Club

Republican Candidate:

• Christine Barnes – Eaton County Commissioner, small business owner, worked in accounting and finance, board member of C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocate), former member of the Eaton County Planning and Zoning Board and the Tri County Regional Planning Commission, Meals on Wheels volunteer

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