Through the general election on November 8, on every Tuesday and Thursday on the MLC Blog we will be highlighting races for which due to the voter base the seat could be won by either the Democratic or Republican candidate.  Candidate’s website and professional information is listed when available, in addition to a portion of endorsements (when applicable).

District Overview

The 62^nd House District is located in Calhoun County.  It includes the cities of Albion, Battle Creek, and Springfield, in addition to the townships of Albion, Bedford, Clarence, Convis, Lee, Pennfield, and Sheridan.  The district has a 52% Democratic base.

Commentary

Given the Democratic base in this district, it was a huge pickup for the Republicans when Representative John Bizon won the seat in 2014.  This hotly contested seat will be one to watch this November.  Over the past decade, the seat has been represented by legislators from both sides of the aisle, making this a true toss-up seat.

While serving in the House, Representative Bizon has served on the Appropriations and Health Policy Committees, in addition to the follow Appropriations Subcommittees: Department of Community Health (vice chair) Community Colleges (vice chair), and the Department of Transportation.

Democratic Candidate:

• Jim Haadsma – Calhoun County Commissioner, labor relations and workers’ compensation attorney.
  • Primary endorsements – Former Congressman Mark Schauer, Michigan Association of Justice, Michigan Laborers District Council, Planned Parenthood Advocates of Michigan, Calhoun County Deputy Sheriffs Association, Michigan Nurses Association.

Republican Candidate:

• Dr. John Bizon – Ear, nose, and throat-otolaryngologist.
  • Primary endorsements – Michigan Realtors Association, Relentless Positive Action PAC, County Road Association of Michigan, Small Business Association of Michigan BIZ PAC.

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