Democrats look to make new gains in state legislatures, and protect recent ones

Democrats and Republicans are engaged in a fierce battle for control of key state legislatures, including several in presidential swing states. In Arizona, Democratic state Rep. Judy Schwiebert is running for a Republican-held state Senate seat, emphasizing her support for funding public schools and protecting access to abortion and in vitro fertilization. Democrats need a net gain of two state House seats and two state Senate seats to gain a trifecta for the first time in more than 60 years in Arizona. Schwiebert, who canvasses in north Phoenix neighborhoods, is facing off against state Sen. Shawnna Bolick, who voted to overturn the state’s near-total abortion ban.

In Michigan, where Democrats won trifectas in 2022, the new legislative majority has overturned the state’s right-to-work law, expanded LGBTQ rights, and passed sweeping legislation on abortion access and gun control. Michigan Republicans are hoping to regain a majority in the state House by appealing to swing voters with a positive vision and mission. Former Gov. Rick Snyder launched a bus tour to promote the GOP’s “Mission for Michigan” agenda and boost legislative candidates.

Both parties are investing heavily in state legislative races, with Democratic groups outspending their Republican counterparts. The DLCC has pledged to spend $60 million, while liberal super PACs like Forward Majority and the States Project are expected to reach $45 million and $70 million, respectively. The RSLC has warned supporters about the funding advantage Democrats have in down-ballot races.

State legislatures play a crucial role in shaping policy and serve as a training ground for future members of Congress. Democrats have been working to gain back power at the state level after Republicans flipped control of 22 state chambers in the 2010 election cycle. With new, more competitive district lines this year, Democrats are likely to gain seats nationally, but there’s a chance Republicans could exceed expectations in swing states.

Both parties are focused on protecting majorities and gaining control of key state legislatures. The outcome of these races will have a significant impact on policy decisions and future elections at both the state and federal levels. As voters head to the polls, the battle for state legislatures is heating up, with high stakes for both Democrats and Republicans.