Article courtesy of SBAM’s Advocacy and Policy team
Michigan’s First Congressional District, which encompasses the Upper Peninsula and much of Northern Michigan, is once again drawing national attention as the 2026 election cycle enters its final month. While the district remains Republican-leaning, political observers are watching several developments that could shape the race and influence federal policy priorities for the region.
Incumbent Rep. Jack Bergman (R-Watersmeet) is seeking a sixth term in Congress after winning the Republican primary in August. Bergman continues to emphasize issues important to the district, including veterans’ services, rural infrastructure, economic development, and reducing regulatory burdens on businesses. He has also highlighted federal funding secured for community projects across Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula and has advocated for policies aimed at lowering energy costs and supporting key regional industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, forestry, mining, and tourism.
On the Democratic side, Callie Barr, a Traverse City attorney and educator, secured her party’s nomination and is mounting a rematch against Bergman. Barr has centered her campaign on affordability concerns, healthcare access, housing availability, and increased constituent engagement. She has argued that rising costs and challenges facing rural healthcare providers are among the district’s most pressing issues.
Although most election forecasters continue to rate the seat as Republican-favored, the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee recently added this district to its expanded list of competitive targets, signaling an effort to increase resources and engagement in the race.
In the 2024 election, Rep. Jack Bergman comfortably retained his seat, winning approximately 59% of the vote against Barr, who received about 41%. The result underscored the district’s continued Republican lean, as Bergman carried the sprawling Northern Michigan and Upper Peninsula district by roughly 18 percentage points. Despite Democratic efforts to increase competitiveness in the district, Bergman’s strong support among rural voters, veterans, and conservative-leaning communities helped him maintain a decisive margin of victory.
As Election Day approaches, the race will serve as a barometer for voter sentiment in rural and small-town Michigan, where economic growth, workforce challenges, and the cost of doing business remain central concerns for employers and families alike.
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