State Overview
In 2008, Michigan faces several challenges: carrying Michigan for the Democratic Presidential nominee, re-electing Senator Carl Levin, taking two Congressional seats, retaining control of the State House and changing the balance on the Michigan Supreme Court. As a swing state, the Democratic nominee for four straight Presidential elections has carried Michigan, but his should not be taken for granted. Michigan Democrats must strategize, fundraise and work tirelessly to ensure that Michigan is “blue” in 2008. Senator Carl Levin has served Michigan proudly since 1978 and currently serves as the Chairman of the Armed Services committee. The State Party must re-elect Senator Levin in 2008. The DCCC is targeting two Michigan congressional districts – the 7th and 9th – and we must work to take out those GOP incumbents. In 2006, Michigan Democrats gained control of the State House for the first time since 1996. It will be a fight to retain this legislative body that is important for redistricting as well as pushing the Governor’s agenda forward.
As a ballot measure state, the State Party is keeping watch on several potentially explosive proposals. The possible initiatives include allowing stem cell research and conservative measures such as the Tax Payers Bill of Rights (TABOR). Either of these issues has the potential to drive voter turnout number. Finally, the Michigan Supreme Court has a bloc of four conservative justices hostile to victims, unions and Democrats. In 2008, one right-wing Justice is up for re-election. Retaking that seat would bring the Michigan Supreme Court to a 3-3-2 split as we head into redistricting.
