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Bay City Today
By the People, for the People
Bay City Mayor announces candidacy for state house
Chris Girard, a Democrat, is running to represent the 96th District which includes Bay City, Essexville, and ten of Bay County's 14 townships.
Apr. 9, 2026 at 3:33am
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The state capitol building stands as a symbol of political power and representation, its stately presence casting a long shadow on the surrounding community.Bay City TodayBay City Mayor Chris Girard, a Democrat, has announced his candidacy for the state house to represent the 96th District. Girard has served two stints on the Bay City Commission and was elected mayor in 2023. He plans to focus his campaign on infrastructure, economic stability, and community health.
Why it matters
Girard's candidacy could shake up the political landscape in the 96th District, which has been represented by a Republican since 2021. As mayor, Girard has advocated for state support to address infrastructure issues like the crowded Veterans Memorial Bridge, which is the only free option for crossing the Saginaw River in the area.
The details
In his announcement, Girard cited the state's failure to adequately fund and maintain the region's bridges as an example of the kind of infrastructure issues he would prioritize as a state representative. The Veterans Memorial Bridge is often extremely crowded, while the other state-owned bridge, Lafayette, is currently being rebuilt. Drivers who want to avoid the traffic on the Veterans Memorial Bridge have to pay a toll to use the Liberty and Independence bridges.
- Girard announced his candidacy on social media on April 9, 2026.
- The 96th District is currently represented by Republican Timmy Beson, who first won election in 2021.
The players
Chris Girard
The Democratic mayor of Bay City who is running for the state house to represent the 96th District.
Timmy Beson
The Republican who has represented the 96th District in the state house since 2021.
What they’re saying
“I am running to represent the 96th District which includes Bay City, Essexville, and ten of Bay County's 14 townships.”
— Chris Girard, Bay City Mayor
What’s next
TV5 has reached out to Timmy Beson, the current 96th District representative, for comment on Girard's candidacy announcement.
The takeaway
Girard's candidacy could shake up the political dynamics in the 96th District, as he aims to unseat the Republican incumbent on a platform focused on infrastructure, economic stability, and community health. His mayoral experience and advocacy for state support on issues like the crowded Veterans Memorial Bridge could resonate with voters.
