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 71^st House District is located in Eaton County and has a 51% Republican base.

Commentary

Incumbent Representative Tom Barrett defeated then-incumbent Representative Theresa Abed in 2014 by just over 300 votes.  With the presidential election occurring this year, voter turnout is expected to be higher, which will have a significant impact on this race and could make the difference for the challenger. However, Representative Barrett has worked his district hard over the past eighteen months and has set himself up well for November. This race is considered one of the top races to watch with Ms. Abed running again creating a rematch of 2014.

Democratic Candidate:

• Theresa Abed – Former legislature, social worker, and Eaton County Commissioner.
  • Primary Endorsements – MI AFL-CIO, Sierra Club, EMILY’s List, Planned Parenthood of MI, MI Education Association, American Federation of Teachers.

Republican Candidate:

• Tom Barrett – Military Veteran, part time helicopter pilot in the Michigan National Guard, former analyst for the State Treasury Department.
  • Primary Endorsement –Great Lakes Education Project, Michigan Realtors Association, Michigan Manufacturers Association, Small Business Association of Michigan Small BIZ PAC.

Michigan Legislative Consultants is a bipartisan lobbying firm based in Lansing, Michigan. Our team of lobbyists and procurement specialists provide a wide range of services for some of the most respected companies in America. For more on MLC, visit www.mlcmi.com or connect with us on LinkedIn and Twitter.