Republicans in the state won the necessary 56 seats and flipped back the chamber they lost in 2022.

“With a Republican majority, Michigan will have a stronger voice fighting for the values of hardworking families and addressing the issues that matter most — safe schools and neighborhoods, an affordable economy, and a government that provides value for dollars,” Republican Minority Leader Matt Hall said.

The state GOP flipped at least two critical House seats in the 109th House District and in Wayne County’s Downriver area. Democrats say it is an opportunity to “regroup and rebuild.”

“The results of the election represent an opportunity to regroup and rebuild over the coming term. House Democrats will put in the work to regain our majority and deliver a brighter future for the millions of residents who make Michigan their home,” House Speaker Joe Tate said in an emailed statement Wednesday morning.

Leadership positions for both parties will be decided on Thursday. Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) will no longer have a Democratic trifecta to push legislation through anymore. The state’s Senate will remain Democrat-controlled after it dodged being on the ballot this year.

Republicans had a distinct strategy in their quest to win a majority in the Michigan House. They blasted subsidies offered from Democrats in order to obtain more electric vehicle jobs in the state. The GOP blasted any opposition to making a temporary income tax cut permanent and opposed a school budget that included no per-pupil funding increase and new energy laws.

Democrats are confident they can reclaim the House in the future. “The road back to the majority is going to be a long one, but it is one I have every confidence we can overcome,” State Rep. Laurie Pohutsky said in a letter announcing her candidacy for House Minority Leader.