Strong, Gross, and DeJong Will Seek 78th District Seat
The candidates will face off in the Michigan House of Representatives general election this November.
Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Political Parties
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Republican Brandon Strong, Democrat Rachel Gross, and Libertarian Ben DeJong are set to compete for Michigan’s 78th House District seat. The election will take place on November 3, 2026.
Why it matters
The race will determine the representative for the 78th District as incumbent Gina Johnsen leaves the House to run for state Senate. The outcome will influence the partisan balance within the Michigan House of Representatives.
Three candidates have qualified for the Michigan 78th House District general election. The seat is currently held by state Representative Gina Johnsen, who is seeking election to the state Senate.
The players
Brandon Strong
He is a Republican candidate running for a seat in the Michigan House of Representatives.
Rachel Gross
She is a Democratic candidate competing in the general election for the 78th House District.
Ben DeJong
He is a Libertarian candidate seeking election to the Michigan House of Representatives.
Gina Johnsen
She is the incumbent state Representative for the 78th District who is currently running for a seat in the state Senate.
The details
Brandon Strong, Rachel Gross, and Ben DeJong are vying to replace Gina Johnsen in the Michigan House of Representatives. Each candidate represents a different political party as they contest the upcoming general election in the 78th District.
Timeline
The Michigan 78th House District general election is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
Political Context
This race follows the pattern set by the Michigan House of Representatives legislative term limits that drive incumbents to seek higher office. Opposition parties often focus on these open-seat contests as primary opportunities to shift the chamber's partisan majority.
The outcome of this election will determine which candidate represents the interests of the 78th District in state-level legislative sessions. Residents will see changes in their legislative representation when the new term begins.
The takeaway
Voters in the 78th District have a clear choice between three party-affiliated candidates to fill a seat vacated by the incumbent. It is important for constituents to review candidate filings and public statements ahead of the November 3 polling date.
Further reading
Learn more about local candidate platforms on the Political Parties page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Daily News | News from Greenville, Belding and Montcalm County, Michigan.
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