TUTORIAL | mcrp originals

U.S. Senate Setup in Michigan and Federally

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1. U.S. Senators – Federal Law

• Two U.S. Senators per State: Every state in the U.S. is allocated exactly two U.S. Senators, regardless of population size. This is mandated by the U.S. Constitution (Article I, Section 3).

• Representation in Congress: U.S. Senators represent their entire state, not a district or specific region of the state.

2. State Senate – Michigan Law

• 38 Michigan State Senators: Michigan has a 38-member State Senate. These senators are elected to represent districts within the state, each of which typically covers a population of around 200,000 people. The number of districts and senators is subject to changes based on redistricting and census data.

• District Population: Each district in Michigan is drawn based on population, with the goal of creating districts that are near-equal in population. This ensures equitable representation of voters across the state.

3. U.S. Congressional Setup

• Guaranteed 1 U.S. Congressional Seat per State: Each state is guaranteed at least one seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. The number of Representatives each state has is based on population, with larger states having more, and smaller states having one.

4. Election Cycle for U.S. Senators

• Six-Year Terms: U.S. Senators serve six-year terms and are elected through a staggered system. This means that approximately one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years.

  • Election Divisions: Every Senate election is divided into three groups:

    • 33 seats in one cycle

    • 33 seats in another

    • 34 seats in the final cycle

  • This ensures continuous representation and prevents all 100 Senators from being replaced at once.

5. Ratification of the 19th Amendment (1913)

• The 19th Amendment was pivotal because it gave voters the direct power to elect their U.S. Senators. Prior to the 19th Amendment, Senators were appointed by state legislatures, which meant less accountability to the voters.

• Direct Election of Senators: The amendment changed the U.S. Senate election process, providing direct election by voters in each state, which increased accountability and made it more democratic.

6. Incumbent Advantage & Accountability

• Incumbency Advantage: U.S. Senate elections have historically favored incumbents. The longer someone has held office, the greater their chance of re-election, largely due to name recognition, established networks, and funding advantages.

• Staggered Elections: The system of staggered elections (with 33 or 34 seats up for election each cycle) means that each election cycle includes both new challengers and returning incumbents, helping maintain a balance between fresh perspectives and experienced leadership.

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Summary

• Two U.S. Senators per State, elected to represent the entire state.

• 38 Michigan State Senators, each representing a district with a population close to 200,000 people.

• U.S. Congressional Representation: Every state is guaranteed one U.S. House seat, with the remainder of seats allocated based on population.

• U.S. Senate Elections: Senators serve six-year terms, and one-third of the Senate is up for election every two years.

• The 19th Amendment (1913) allowed direct election of U.S. Senators, replacing the former system where state legislatures appointed them.

• The incumbent advantage in U.S. Senate races is significant due to name recognition and funding, but staggered elections provide some opportunity for change.

• In 2024, you voted for the Class I U.S. Senate seat.

• In 2026, you will vote for the Class II U.S. Senate seat.

• Both seats are not on the ballot in the same year; they alternate every two years.