State
State Representative, 96th District
- Vote for
- 1
- Term
- 2 years
- Candidates
- 2
- Election
- Nov 3, 2026
What this office does: A state representative votes on Michigan laws and the state budget on behalf of the district.
Covers part of Bay County.
Taxes & budget
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
No documented position found.
Timothy BesonRepublican
- Voted for a plan to eliminate the state property tax.
- Voted for a state budget reducing overall spending.In office
Public safety
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
- Supported Bay City police body cameras as a commissioner.
Timothy BesonRepublican
No documented position found.
Housing
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
No documented position found.
Timothy BesonRepublican
- Supports limiting corporate purchases of single-family homes.
Economy & jobs
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
- Supports apprenticeship partnerships among schools, unions and employers.
- Supports cutting red tape for small businesses.
Timothy BesonRepublican
- Supports scrutiny of state-approved utility rate increases.In office
Roads & infrastructure
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
- Pledges to seek funding for roads, bridges and water systems.
Timothy BesonRepublican
- Proposed $1.995 million in state funding for Lafayette Bridge.In office
Health & human services
Christopher R. GirardDemocratic
- Supports reducing wait times for local mental health care.
Timothy BesonRepublican
- Supports barring hospital liens and wage garnishment for medical debt.
Challengers are listed first and incumbents last; otherwise candidates appear in ballot order. The Gist does not rank, rate or endorse candidates. Only positions backed by a cited source are shown; 6 issues covered in this race.