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 85^th House District is located in Shiawassee County and a portion of Saginaw County.  It includes the townships of Brady, Brant, Chapin, Chesaning, Fremont, Jonesfield, Lakefield, Maple Grove, Marion, and Richland.  The district has a 52% Republican base.

Commentary

Current Representative Ben Glardon (R-Owosso) is serving his third and final term in office, leaving this seat open this fall.  The Republican candidate proved to be a strong campaigner during the primary election, having won a four-way primary with 65% of the vote.  Both major party candidates hold local elected offices, boosting both candidates name recognition.  Given the near 50/50 split, this seat is viewed as one to watch this November.

Democratic Candidate:

• Anthony Karhoff – Shiawassee Township Supervisor, volunteer fireman, chair of the Shiawassee County Chapter of the Michigan Townships Association, past president of the Shiawassee County Firefighter’s Association.
  • General Endorsement – Michigan AFL-CIO

Republican Candidate:

• Ben Frederick – Former legislative staffer, Owosso City Council member and Mayor.
  • General Endorsement – National Federation of Independent Business – Michigan.
  • Primary Endorsements – Michigan Manufacturers Association, Small Business Association of Michigan Stamp of Approval.

Libertarian Candidate

• Roger Snyder

US Taxpayers Candidate

• Matthew Shepard

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