Tom Barrett Wins Michigan’s 7th Congressional District, Republicans Gain Seat

Republican Tom Barrett has emerged victorious in the highly contested race for Michigan‘s 7th Congressional District. Barrett, a former state legislator and U.S. Army veteran, defeated Democrat Curtis Hertel in a district that was previously represented by Democratic Rep. Elissa Slotkin, who is now running for the U.S. Senate seat vacated by Debbie Stabenow.

Barrett’s win marks a significant gain for Republicans, as he takes over a seat that was held by a Democrat. This race was one of the most competitive congressional races nationwide, with the district being redrawn in 2022 to include Clinton, Ingham, Livingston, and Shiawassee counties, as well as portions of Eaton, Genesee, and Oakland counties. Major cities in the district include Lansing, East Lansing, Brighton, and Howell.

Tom Barrett previously ran against Elissa Slotkin in 2022 but lost by a margin of 20,185 votes. However, in this election, he secured the seat after Curtis Hertel conceded in a statement early Wednesday morning. Hertel praised Barrett for his decades of service to the nation in the Army and wished him well in his new role.

Barrett’s campaign focused on what he termed the “four pillars of security”: securing the border, reducing the cost of living, enhancing national security, and protecting Michigan’s communities from crime. He emphasized his commitment to restoring American values and leaving a better America for future generations.

Curtis Hertel, the Democratic candidate, had a strong background in Michigan politics, having served as a state senator, Ingham County Register of Deeds, and most recently as Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer‘s Director of Legislative Affairs. His campaign highlighted issues such as protecting reproductive rights, bringing supply chains to Michigan, defending voting rights, and preserving the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid.