2018 Michigan General Election results
The 2018 Michigan General Election results for Nov. 6 are available on the Secretary of State website with length of elected office terms, number of votes per candidate and percentage of votes each candidate received. The site also details voter turnout for all 83 Michigan counties.
Democrats take top offices, but Republicans maintain control of State House, Senate in midterm election
Karoub Special Election Report
Nov. 7, 2018
With the exception of Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Clement’s victory, it was a big night for Michigan Statewide elected Democrats Tuesday.
In impressive fashion, Democrats surged in this midterm election and placed their respective candidates in the Governor, Secretary of State, and Attorney General positions. Voters also returned United States Senator Debbie Stabenow to Washington and flipped two coveted United States House seats.
With about 90 percent of precincts reporting, Governor-elect Gretchen Whitmer carved out a 53 to 44 percent win over Republican Attorney General Bill Schuette. The election results mirror the latest polls going into Tuesday’s election. Attorney Mark Bernstein will act as director of the transition team for the Governor-elect.
Democrat Jocelyn Benson snapped a 24-year Democratic drought in the Secretary of State post by defeating Republican Mary Treder Lang by a solid margin. Democrat Dana Nessel won a close race for Attorney General over Republican House Speaker Tom Leonard.
Unemployment drops to 4 percent, non-medical marijuana a hot topic, legislators hit campaign trail
The House has unanimously approved a five-bill package of legislation (SB 425-429) that will allow people to register to vote online; Michigan’s unemployment rate dropped to 4 percent in September. The number of jobless in the state fell below 200,000 last month for the first time since September 2000; Legislators have finished session work and headed back home to hit the campaign trail until the 14 scheduled session days in lame duck; The state's attempt to have some existing unlicensed marijuana businesses close by Sept. 15 ended up in court. So now the state has issued a new set of rules and made the deadline Oct. 31 instead; Legalization of the use of CBD oil, or cannabidiol, without the need of a medical marijuana card, has passed the House and been sent to the Senate; and the first case of chronic wasting disease in the Upper Peninsula has been confirmed by the Department of Natural Resources. It is the first deer to test positive among the 625 deer tested this year. Click here for the October 2018 Karoub Report for further information on these and other legislative issues.
No straight ticket, ballot proposals set in November election
Michigan voters will not be able to vote a straight-ticket when they go to the polls in November. Voters will not decide on paid sick leave or a $12 minimum wage. In a late move to take control of the citizen initiated petitions, the House and Senate passed the measures with the intent of Republican leadership to come back in lame duck to amend one or both of them.
The statewide ballot proposals in the November general election are:
• Proposal 1 would allow personal possession and use of marijuana by people older than 21 while regulating the distribution and commercial production of recreational marijuana.
• Proposal 2 would end partisan gerrymandering in Michigan by creating a non-partisan, transparent, and citizen-driven Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission.
• Proposal 3 would amend the state constitution to authorize automatic and Election Day, voter registration, no-reason absentee voting and straight-ticket voting; and add current legal requirements for military overseas voting and post-election audits to the Michigan Constitution.
Read more: No straight ticket, ballot proposals set in November election
State plans to close Ojibway prison, debates planned in governor's race, online sales taxes may fund roads
The Michigan Department of Corrections plans to close the Ojibway Correctional Facility in Gogebic County on Dec. 1. Two other prisons have been closed in the past two years – Pugsley Correctional Facility in Grand Traverse County and the West Shoreline Correctional Facility in Muskegon County. Republican gubernatorial nominee Bill Schuette and Democratic gubernatorial nominee Gretchen Whitmer are planning three televised debates and chose their lieutenant governor running mates. Schuette tapped former state representative and Kent County Clerk Lisa Posthumus Lyons and Whitmer named Garlin Gilchrist II of Detroit as her running mate. U.S. District Judge Gershwin Drain has issued a permanent injunction stopping the state from enacting Public Act (PA) 268 which eliminated the option of straight-ticket voting in the foreseeable future for Michigan voters. Gov. Rick Snyder’s administration is recommending sales tax collected from online retailers outside of Michigan – more than $200 million – be spent to fix roads. Governor Snyder has announced new plans that would provide universal access to highspeed internet for every Michigan resident, business, region and community and the Michigan Supreme Court ruled Ann Arbor and Clio school districts’ ban on anyone bringing a weapon into a school building will stand. For more information on these and other legislative issues, click here for the August 2018 Karoub Report.
Record turnout in primary election as Governor, legislature races heat up
The Aug. 7 Primary Election set a modern day voter turnout record with the number of ballots cast expected to exceed 2 million. Michigan voters will hear “Fix the Damn Roads” and “I have been endorsed by President Trump” for the next three months as Democrat Gretchen Whitmer and Republican Bill Schuette won their respective primaries. Campaigning will continue to see who will succeed Governor Rick Snyder as state's next Governor in the November general election. In his first foray into politics, John James, an Operation Iraqi Freedom veteran and businessman, defeated venture capitalist Sandy Pensler to win the Republican primary. James will run against three-term incumbent U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-Delta Twp.) in November’s election. Other state senator and representative primary race winners are also highlighted in the Special Election Karoub Report.
Lawmakers only have 30 days of session scheduled for rest of year
Lawmakers have only 30 days of session scheduled for the remainder of the year with the House actually at 29 days. The House will return to session after Labor Day for the month of September, although three of those weeks are just two-day session weeks. The Senate meets one extra day that month. But the Michigan League of Conservation Voters (MLCV) says lawmakers should return to Lansing immediately to undertake investigations as to why the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) in 2012 did not take a staffers report connecting PFAS chemical contamination to various diseases and health issues. Gov. Rick Snyder has signed into law legislation (SB 652, 653 and 654) that gives him the power to appoint three new commissions within the DEQ. Closing arguments have been held in a 24-day preliminary exam on whether Department of Human Services Director Nick Lyons had individual legal duty by statute or otherwise to notify the public about Flint’s Legionnaires’ disease outbreaks in 2014 and 2015. The Michigan Supreme Court (MSC) recently heard oral arguments from both sides of the Voter Not Politicians (VNP) ballot proposal to have an independent commission redraw Michigan’s political districts. The Michigan Chamber of Commerce has mounted a legal challenge to a ballot proposal that is designed to put an end to gerrymandering in the state. The paid sick leave and minimum wage increase ballot proposals are opposed by Michigan Opportunity, a ballot question committee affiliated with the Michigan Restaurant Association. Michigan Opportunity has filed a complaint in the Court of Appeals alleging the minimum wage increase proposal “unlawfully seeks to amend the current law by reference and without re-enactment and publication of that law as required.” Michigan drivers need to keep their distance from bikers, allowing at least three feet of space while passing bicyclists on the road under legislation (HB 4198, 4185 and 4265) signed into law by Gov. Snyder. Click here for more details in the July 2018 Karoub Report.
Lawmakers tackle budget, Medicaid, auto insurance and sick leave before summer recess
Before Michigan lawmakers left for summer break, they sent the 56.8 billion budget for Fiscal Year 2019 to Gov. Rick Snyder, which has record levels for education and transportation money. However, Democrats have concerns about “raiding” $900 million in K-12 money to bail out the stagnant General Fund; Gov. Snyder says he will sign a bill requiring many Medicaid recipients to work at least 80 hours a month. The bill is a compromise from the initial proposal which included a 29-hour work week requirement and a provision allowing counties with unemployment rates of 8.5 percent or higher to be exempt. That provision was removed; The House took no action on the last day of the 40-day constitutional deadline to legislatively adopt and amend a citizen initiative to legalize recreational use of marijuana. Now voters will decide in November whether to make pot legal in Michigan; The Senate passed legislation (SB 787 and 1014) that would allow seniors 65 and older to choose a $50,000 personal protection auto insurance policy as opposed to the otherwise mandated unlimited lifetime benefit as part of a scaled-back auto insurance package. The House took no action on the auto insurance reform bills before the break; Gov. Snyder vetoed the Health Insurance Claims Assessment (HICA); and Petition signatures calling for passage of a mandatory paid sick time leave policy in Michigan were filed with the state’s election division by the Michigan Time to Care Coalition. If approved, employees could bank up to 72 hours, or nine days, of paid sick leave a year for those who work for employers of 10 employees or more. Those working for smaller businesses could bank up to 40 hours of paid leave with 32 more hours of unpaid leave. Click on June 2018 Karoub Report for more information on these and other legislative issues.
Scholars 2018

Stuart Raider of the Raider Dennis Agency (from left center), a V.I.P. Sponsor of the Carl Parsell Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing, and his son, Josh Raider, congratulate 2018 Carl Parsell Scholarship recipients Jessica Williams (left) and Makenzie Leach (right).
Pre-med students receive 2018 Carl Parsell Scholarships
By Jennifer Gomori, MAP Editor
Two college-bound students planning medical careers were honored with $2,500 Carl Parsell Scholarships during the 28th Annual Carl Parsell Memorial Golf Outing on June 7, 2018 at Links of Novi.
Makenzie Leach of Kalkaska and Jessica Williams of Fowlerville were awarded 2018 scholarships.
The Carl Parsell Scholarship Fund was established in 1991 to continue the legacy of Parsell, a law enforcement union movement pioneer, by improving the lives and futures of others, through education. Scholarships are awarded each year to Michigan family members of Michigan Association of Police (MAP), Michigan Association of Public Employees (MAPE) and Michigan Association of Fire Fighters (MAFF) union members.
In its 28th year, $120,500 in Carl Parsell Scholarships have been awarded to help students obtain a college education. Funds for the scholarships are derived from the Annual Carl Parsell Memorial Scholarship Golf Outing.

Carl Parsell Scholar to pursue nursing training while in college
By Jennifer Gomori, MAP Editor
Makenzie Leach is pursuing a career as a nurse and a $2,500 Carl Parsell Scholarship is helping her achieve that dream.
The daughter of MAPE member Stacy Leach, Kalkaska County Friend of the Court Case Manager, and Matt Leach of Kalkaska, was awarded the 2018-19 scholarship in June. She graduated Kalkaska High School with a 3.9 GPA this May.
In the fall, she plans to pursue a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing at Northwestern Community College in Traverse City, which recently added the full four-year nursing program to their curriculum. “Receiving this scholarship award would be a great honor and take away some of the financial burdens of nursing school,” she wrote in her application.
Leach, who graduated with Honors, served as Junior Class President, Student Council President in her senior year, and a high school math tutor. Captain of the Varsity Softball Team her senior year, she played four years on the Varsity Softball team and was Kalkaska Blazer Softball MVP in 2017. Leach was also awarded five other scholarships totaling $4,000.

“Makenzie has distinguished herself as an academic, leader, and hard worker in numerous fields, but also as a tremendous person in our school community,” wrote Kalkaska High science teacher Matthew Rogers. “I am always impressed with her creative mind and independent work ethic. She never stops her pursuit of knowledge, and continually looks deeper and tries to make connections with the material. Makenzie searches for answers to problems and is willing to take risks and try new ideas to accomplish the goal.”
“While taking a college level biology is difficult for most, Makenzie continuously keeps an open dialogue between herself and the instructor. This is an impressive trait that is rare for most high schoolers,” Rogers wrote. “As a leader she pushes the envelope with ideas and projects that provide the school and community with unique experiences. Makenzie has worked with individuals on school work or has been there to offer support for peers in need. She is the first person to help and will always go out of her way to make sure she can.”
As National Honors Society (NHS) Secretary, Leach volunteered at blood drives, gardening along community walking trails, and helped with parades and other local community events. She also volunteered with youth softball and the Grand Traverse Regional Community Foundation Youth Advisory Council, reviewing applications for grants and awarding funds to non-profit agencies.
Leach was a TBAISD Teacher Academy Program participant, assisting in elementary classrooms with instruction and was on TBA Career-Tech Center Principal’s Honor Roll. “Kenzie is a born leader and communicator. As my teacher academy student, she was helpful in all tasks creative, interpersonal and clerical,” wrote Matt Olds, Kalkaska High teacher and coach. “As for softball, Kenzie has been decorated as a top performer earning all-region twice, all-district, and all-conference three times. Kenzie can truly get big projects done with her attitude and rare ability to bring people together.”
Leach worked as a secretary at First Choice Trucking through a school-to-work program in high school. She babysits and has worked various summer jobs. This summer, she plans to return to work at Twin Birch Golf Course and will nanny.
“As a former teacher and coach of Makenzie Leach’s, I have been thoroughly impressed by her commitment and willingness to give 100% all the time,” wrote Jason Skeels. “I have seen a young woman who is dedicated, hardworking, and always willing to help others. Makenzie was a student of mine last year in TBA Teacher Academy Program and she was phenomenal. Her projects were second to none and she worked well with her host teachers throughout the school year. Not only was she successful in balancing her busy schedule, she has maintained exceptional grades and also volunteered numerous hours throughout her community.”
In college, Leach plans to get a jump start on her career while earning money by applying to become a Certified Nursing Assistant. “I’m hoping to work at Munson Hospital in Traverse City,” Leach said, adding that she would receive training and work experience if hired. “You get a paycheck and they also assist you with your college.”

Carl Parsell Scholar plans to become trauma surgeon
By Jennifer Gomori, MAP Editor
Jessica Williams of Fowlerville plans to use her $2,500 Carl Parsell Scholarship to take the first steps in preparing for a medical career.
The daughter of MAFF Union member Daniel Williams, Jr. a Livingston County Paramedic, and Marcie Williams, graduated Fowlerville High School Suma Cum Laude with a 3.9 GPA. She is using her scholarship in pursuit of a bachelor’s of science degree in Biology at Grand Canyon University, a pre-med program.
“This scholarship will help me further my goals of going into the medical field by being a stepping stone to ease the burden of debt from attending college,” Williams wrote in her application. “My goal is to become a trauma surgeon and I chose this occupation so I can help people.”
Williams also received an American Red Cross $250 scholarship and an annual President’s Scholarship for $7,750 from the university based on her high GPA.
She is working at The Pizza Box in Fowlerville and plans to find a job near campus to help pay her schooling costs. Williams is looking forward to the warmer climate. “I think it will be fun to get out of my comfort zone and explore new places,” she said. “They have a really nice campus and their pre-med program is really good. I really liked the atmosphere there when I toured it.”
Williams was section leader in Marching Band and received Chevron awards and a Varsity Letter in Wind Ensemble. “Both inside the classroom and out, she can be found putting in the work, knowing that her efforts now will only increase her successes down the road,” wrote William A. Vliek, Fowlerville High School Director of Bands. “In her time in band, she has taken private saxophone lessons and has become our lead alto saxophonist in our jazz band; requiring her to arrive at school 50 minutes early twice a week. In addition, she has taken it upon herself to take private voice lessons as well as private piano lessons.”

“Though her initiative and drive are exemplary, Jessica’s character is the trait I will remember most,” Vliek wrote. “She can be counted on for a smile when needed and has served as a great leader within our marching band. She understands that not everyone learns at the same pace and molds her leadership and teaching to fit each individual student. I have no doubt that this trait will bring her great success in the professional world when she needs to collaborate and work effectively with others.”
Williams also received an Academic Letter for Honor Roll and National Academy of Future Physicians and Medical Scientists Award of Excellence for outstanding grades, leadership potential, and determination to serve humanity in the field of medicine. She received a Varsity Letter, pins, and was a mentor in Archery and completed courses and requirements of National Student Leadership Conference on Medicine and Health Care.
She took time to help others as a Camp Counselor and volunteer at Center Lake Bible Camp. She plays in the Praise Band at Calvary Church in Webberville, is a Children’s Church volunteer and helps an older woman she befriended with weekly yardwork and cleaning. “She likes the company and we get along very well. She does (cardiac) research at Michigan State,” Williams said.
“Jessie is very determined, reliable and willing to do whatever task needs to be done to the best of her ability,” wrote Michael R. Carpenter, Associate Pastor at Calvary Church in Webberville. “She is respectful of authority, accepts criticism and takes responsibility for the task at hand. She is always willing to step up and fill a need when asked or when she sees an opportunity. She is a beautiful example of character and a role model to not only her peers, but to all ages, including myself.”
Calvary Senior Pastor Scott Gardziella described her as hard working, consistent and dedicated. “These qualities have made her an excellent volunteer at our church where she has devoted countless hours mentoring boys and girls in our children’s ministry and playing bass with our Praise Band,” Gardziella wrote. “She is kind and likeable, but not so worried about being liked that she changes with the crowd. This stability of character makes me trust her implicitly.”
Comparing her “outstanding” archery skills to life, Gardziella wrote, “She focuses on her goal, blocks out all the unnecessary noise and drama, takes careful aim at the target and hits the bullseye.”
More state revenue expected, strict drinking water standards proposed, recreational pot use urged in May legislation
The Committee to Keep Pot out of Neighborhoods and Schools was fighting a ballot proposal to legalize marijuana. Now, it is urging the Legislature to take up the initiative, amend it and pass legislation for adult recreational use; Updated revenue estimates set by state economists indicate Gov. Snyder and legislators will have a combined $500 million more than expected for this fiscal year and next fiscal year; The strictest drinking water rules for lead in the country are about complete, according to Gov. Rick Snyder’s administration. The plan would eventually result in the replacement of all 500,000 lead service pipes in Michigan unless a legislative committee objects by June; Environmentalist billionaire Tom Steyer is dropping his effort to put before the voters in November a ballot proposal that would raise the state’s renewable portfolio standard to 30 percent by 2030; After the U.S. Supreme Court gave the state the ability to regulate the running of a sports book for gaming operations, the Michigan House Regulatory Reform Committee may schedule a hearing to permit casinos to offer sports team wagers; and Pancreatic cancer has taken the life of State Superintendent Brian Whiston. He was diagnosed with the disease in late 2017 and had officially gone on long-term disability just days before his passing. Click on the May 2018 Karoub Report for more information.
School safety, legalizing marijuana and unemployment lawsuit addressed in April Karoub Report
A package of gun control/safety legislation bills introduced by Senate Democrats would invest $100 million in schools, with half going for grants for more counselors, social workers and school resource officers, and half in grants for safety measures in schools; SB 897, which passed the Senate without any Democrat support, would require able-bodied Medicaid recipients between the ages of 19 and 64 to work, receive job training or education, or a combination of the three, for an average of 29 hours per week; the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has granted Nestle permission to increase its water withdrawals to 400 gallons per minute for its bottled water plant near Evart despite most public comments opposing increased usage; the Michigan Supreme Court ordered oral arguments in a lawsuit filed by unemployment insurance claimants who were falsely accused of fraud through the state’s controversial Michigan Integrated Data Automated System (MIDAS); As the Coalition to Regulate Marijuana Like Alcohol pushes to get the legalization of marijuana on the Nov. 6 ballot, some Republican lawmakers are considering legalizing it through the Legislature rather than let the initiative make the ballot; and 5 p.m. April 26 is the deadline to challenge a sample of signatures submitted by the redistricting reform ballot committee, Voters Not Politicians (VNP). VNP said they submitted 425,000 signatures and have no doubt the proposal will be on the ballot Nov. 6. For more information on these and other legislative initiates, click here for the April 2018 Karoub Report.
Senator Peters, colleagues introduce bill to prevent child identity theft
U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) and a bipartisan group of senators recently introduced legislation to help protect children’s identities from “synthetic ID fraud,” a form of identity theft in which stolen Social Security Numbers (SSN) are paired with fake names and birth dates. A recent study found that one in every 10 children had their SSN used by identity thieves to fraudulently open bank or credit card accounts, negatively impacting a child’s credit before they even become adults. Click here for more information on this bill to prevent chiild identity theft.