General Election Overview: 12th Senate District

Oct 6, 2026

by Liz Gullett

As MLC’s Communications and Social Media Manager, Liz Gullett keeps clients informed and up-to-date on the goings on in Lansing and the Capitol.

Leading up to the November 5 general election, we are highlighting races generally considered swing seats.

District Overview:

The 12th Michigan Senate District includes Algonac, Chesterfield Township, Clay Township, Grosse Pointe, Grosse Pointe Farms, Grosse Pointe Park, Grosse Pointe Shores, Grosse Pointe Woods, Harper Woods, Harrison Township, Ira Township, Mount Clemens, New Baltimore, and St. Clair Shores, and portions of Clinton Township.

Commentary:

Democratic Senator Kevin Hertel is running for his second term in the Senate, after previously serving three terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. This seat is nearly a perfect 50-50 partisan split and will be pivotal in determining which caucus secures the Senate majority.

Senator Hertel and his family have a long history of public service, and he’s been grinding in the district since winning. However, Republicans see a viable path to victory and are investing heavily in their candidate, a political newcomer, John Goldwater. If you’re wondering what race to watch on election night, this should be at the top of your list!

Democratic Candidate: 

Republican Candidate:

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.

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