Democrats regained control of the Michigan House and secured full party dominance in state government following victories in two special elections.

Mai Xiong and Peter Herzberg emerged victorious in the 13th and 25th Districts respectively, both being favored candidates in heavily Democratic areas.

The win ends a deadlock in the House, allowing Democrats to regain control until the year’s end, with all seats up for reelection in November.

Xiong, endorsed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and Herzberg, a Westland City Council member, are now part of the Democratic majority.

Lawmakers are shifting focus to the state budget, aiming for a July 1 deadline, the Associated Press reports.

Priorities include Whitmer’s proposed $80 billion budget, featuring free community college and preschool, as well as discussions on hate crime laws and school safety measures post the Oxford High School shooting.

Time is of the essence as legislators gear up for summer campaigning in their districts.

Written by B.C. Begley