Michigan’s 7th Congressional District is gearing up for a heated race following Representative Elissa Slotkin's decision to pursue a Senate seat. Former state senators Curtis Hertel Jr., a Democrat, and Tom Barrett, a Republican, have both announced their candidacies, setting the stage for a rematch of their 2022 contest.

Hertel, who hails from a family with a strong political background, emphasized his commitment to Democratic principles while also expressing a willingness to collaborate across party lines. He previously served in the state legislature, representing Lansing and East Lansing, and briefly held a position in Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration.

Barrett, a former Army veteran with over two decades of service, is hoping for a different outcome this time around. He believes his previous campaign was negatively impacted by a weak gubernatorial candidate and fundraising challenges, issues he aims to address in the upcoming election.

The 7th District, redrawn before the 2022 midterms, is a mix of Republican-leaning and Democratic-leaning areas, making it a key battleground district. Slotkin's decisive victory in the district last year has positioned her as a strong contender for Senator Debbie Stabenow’s seat. She has pledged to support the Democratic candidate in the House race, recognizing the importance of retaining the seat for the party's overall House majority prospects.

Both national parties are expected to invest heavily in the race, with the National Republican Campaign Committee already signaling its intent to prioritize the 7th District. The outcome of this election could significantly impact the balance of power in the House of Representatives.

Barrett believes the Republican candidates will perform better this election cycle compared to last year, when statewide candidates endorsed by former President Donald Trump struggled. Meanwhile, Hertel intends to focus on grassroots campaigning and direct voter engagement throughout the district, particularly in Ingham County, a Democratic stronghold where he previously served.