The outcome of the May special election in the 35th District could have major consequences for Senate Democrats who currently hold only a one-seat majority.

Locals clerks are encouraging voters to turn in their absentee ballots two weeks ahead of election day. Primary elections are scheduled to take place on Feb. 3.

The early numbers provide insight into the state of primary races in the Saginaw Bay region at around the halfway mark in the lead up to election night on Feb. 3.

Ten candidates are running in the upcoming February primary to fill the open state Senate seat to represent parts of Midland, Bay and Saginaw counties.

There are seven townships or cities within Midland County that are within the 35th state Senate district.

There are 13 communities in Bay County that are within the 35th state Senate district.

WCMU is closely covering the upcoming state Senate special election in the Saginaw Bay region. The outcome of the election could have major impact on state legislation in 2026.

There are eight townships or cities included in Saginaw County within the 35th state Senate district.

This guide will help you navigate the election, from the Feb. 3, 2026 primary to the general election on May 5, for a new state Senator in the Saginaw Bay region.

Michigan law requires early in-person polling locations to be available for statewide and federal elections, but not for local races. In the tri-county area, Saginaw is the only one who's going to offer this voting option for the 35th district state Senate special election in early 2026.