A candidate in the crowded race for Michigan's open Senate seat formally kicked off his campaign Wednesday. Chedrick Greene, a Democrat, held a campaign event in Saginaw. Greene is one of five Democrats running to fill the 35th district seat, which represents the Saginaw Bay area.
He served as a U.S. Marine for 30 years and is currently a Saginaw Fire Department captain.
Addressing a crowd of supporters, Greene said he would push for policies to lower cost of living. “Tax breaks for the working class, not the ultra-wealthy,” he said. "A working parent's tax credit, so young parents can afford to go to work and have childcare."
Greene also criticized President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. “Trump’s tariffs are crushing families and crashing the economy,” he said. “The tariff chaos is bad for business… it's driving businesses away, slowing hiring and causing job cuts”
Addressing public safety, Greene drew on his experience as a first responder. He criticized the GOP-led state House's budget proposal. Green said it would lead to layoffs at the state police department.
“Republicans just proposed a budget that literally defunds the police,” Greene said. “As a fellow first responder, I stand with law enforcement and concerned residents on being tough on crime,” he said.
Greene joins four other Democrats running for the seat. Midland County Medical Examiner Dr. William Morrone also plans to run, according to the Michigan Public Radio Network.
Former Bridgeport Township Trustee Brandell Adams and State Board of Education Chair Pamela Pugh are vying for the Democratic nomination. Martin Blank, a former Republican candidate for the 35th District seat, announced he was running as a Democrat.
Two Republicans, Saginaw businessman Chadwick Twillman and former Dow employee Christian Velasquez, have announced bids.
The election results will be crucial in the final months of Governor Gretchen Whitmer's tenure.
A GOP win would end Democratic control of the state Senate, leaving the chamber tied at 19 seats per party.
