Primary Election Overview: 23rd Senate District

Jul 14, 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 August 4 primary, we are highlighting key races shaped by voter demographics in the district. Candidate websites and professional backgrounds are listed when available. 

District Overview:

The 23rd Senate District includes the western half of Oakland County.

Commentary:

Republican Senator Jim Runestad has served 12 years in the legislature, making him term-limited for running again in the Michigan Senate. The district has a 58.1% Republican base, making that primary election important to who is likely to represent this seat next term.

Republican Candidates: 

    • Daniel Lawless – Restaurant franchise owner.
    • Donni Steele – State Representative, small business owner, realtor, former Treasurer and Trustee of Orion Township.

Related posts:

  1. Five Things We’re Reading
  2. Recall Petition Approved
  3. Five Things We’re Reading
  4. August 8th Primary Election

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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