Trends in Michigan Supreme Court Elections 2000–2012

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores various trends in Michigan Supreme Court elections from 2000 through 2012. Within the backdrop of the structure of Court elections, dimensions such as incumbency, electoral competitiveness, the role of parties, and campaign spending are examined. This study finds that while incumbents still retain some important advantages, incumbents are no longer automatically re-elected. Moreover, Supreme Court elections are becoming increasingly competitive, as the margins of victory have been reduced substantially in the most recent elections. Even though Supreme Court general elections are officially non-partisan, political parties play a major role, with a formal role in the nominations process, but also through independent expenditures and issue advertising on television. Interest groups and parties both have been outspending candidates in recent elections, and thus have added to the negative tone of Court campaigns. An overall trend of increased campaign spending has been found during the period investigated. In addition, a distinct difference in the level of electoral competitiveness and overall campaign spending was identified when comparing the 2000 through 2006 elections with the 2008 through 2012 elections.