Republican incumbent state Rep. John Roth claimed victory around midnight in Michigan’s 104th House District — an area expanded by redistricting.
Roth watched his lead steadily grow over Democratic challenger Cathy Albro.
“I feel good, we worked hard,” Roth said. “Sixty-six percent of this district is new so that was a challenge but I feel good (about the results).”
Albro, a Democrat and former teacher from Bellaire, could not immediately be reached for comment.
Redistricting expanded the 104th District eastward, to include more rural communities in Kalkaska and Antrim counties. It also includes the south side of Grand Traverse and communities in Benzie and Manistee counties.
Roth said his new goal will be to elevate the rural communities of northern Michigan.
“When we’re in the legislature it’s important to stand up for northern Michigan, especially its rural areas,” he said. “If we don’t stand up and say something about it, downstate gets all the priority and we get nothing.”
Roth said he’ll continue to focus on the area's ongoing housing crisis and access to childcare and mental health resources.
