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State Senator, 31st District

Vote for
1
Term
4 years
Candidates
2
Election
Nov 3, 2026

What this office does: A state senator votes on Michigan laws and the state budget and confirms many of the Governor's appointments.

Covers part of Ottawa and Allegan counties.

CandidatesCompare by issue

Taxes & budget

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    • Proposes ending sales tax on diapers and toilet paper

  • John WetzelRepublican

    • Proposes major property tax reform
    • Proposes cutting state spending to lower taxes

Public safety

Education

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    • Supports free school breakfast and lunch for all students

  • John WetzelRepublican

    • Supports extending school choice to private schools

Housing

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    • Proposes letting downsizing seniors keep their property tax rate
    • Proposes more by-right housing development

  • John WetzelRepublican

    • Proposes addressing zoning limits on housing supply

Economy & jobs

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    • Proposes public support for trade schools and apprenticeships
    • Proposes a state Investment Advocate for entrepreneurs

  • John WetzelRepublican

    No documented position found.

Roads & infrastructure

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    • Proposes using tourism assessments for housing infrastructure

  • John WetzelRepublican

    No documented position found.

Environment & parks

  • Chris KleinjansDemocratic

    No documented position found.

  • John WetzelRepublican

    • Opposes renewable energy standards and statewide siting rules

Government & transparency

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; 8 issues covered in this race.