Incumbents Seek Re-election in Missouri, Illinois

In Missouri, incumbents U.S. Reps. Mark Alford, Emanuel Cleaver II, and Sam Graves are vying for re-election in their respective districts, facing challengers Jeanette Cass, Sean Smith, and Pay May. Alford emphasizes his agricultural and small business support, while Cleaver, seeking his 11th term, has a strong background in local governance and financial services. In Illinois, Democratic incumbents Jonathan Jackson and Robin Kelly are campaigning for their second and seventh terms respectively, facing Republican challengers Marcus Lewis and Ashley Ramos in districts characterized by significant portions of Chicago. Meanwhile, in Michigan, two open congressional seats are highly contested due to redistricting, with former news anchor Paul Junge challenging Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet in the 8th District and a close race in the 7th District between Democrats and Republicans. Additionally, all 110 seats in Michigan's State House are up for election, with Democrats holding a slim majority and several key races that could shift control to Republicans. Political analysts predict that the outcome of these congressional and state house races could significantly affect legislative productivity and policy direction in these states.