LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – Two-term State Representative Dave Prestin (R-Cedar River) has announced his campaign for the Michigan Senate’s 38th District seat. In the announcement, he pledged to continue prioritizing the Upper Peninsula’s economy, energy, and access to healthcare.
Prestin, who has represented the 108th House District since 2023, said his decision to run stems from his commitment to the people of the U.P.
“Every decision I make starts and ends with one question: what’s best for the people of the U.P.?” Prestin said. “Our communities deserve leaders who understand the challenges of living, working, and raising a family up north, from energy costs and healthcare access to job creation and government overreach.”
A small business owner and first responder, Prestin said his top priorities in the State Senate would include creating good-paying jobs, defending affordable energy, and expanding rural healthcare access. He pointed to hospital closures, EMS shortages, and high utility costs as key issues facing residents and businesses across the region.
Prestin’s campaign has already drawn support from several Upper Peninsula lawmakers.
Outgoing State Senator Ed McBroom (R-Vulcan), who cannot seek re-election due to term limits, expressed his support for Prestin’s campaign.
“Dave Prestin has proven time and again that he’s a strong voice for the people of the Upper Peninsula,” McBroom said. “He’s pragmatic, grounded, and committed to solving real problems. Dave is unquestionably the best choice for this job.”
State Representatives Karl Bohnak (R-Marquette) and Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock) also voiced their support, calling Prestin a “serious” and “solutions-focused” leader who understands the region’s challenges.
Prestin also received backing from Diane Casperson, widow of the late State Senator Tom Casperson, who represented the 38th District for eight years.
“Tom would be excited and grateful that Dave Prestin is seeking to represent the district he loved,” she said. “In Dave, I see many of the same qualities that defined Tom, from his passion for the U.P. to his genuine concern for the people.”
Prestin and his wife, Kathie, live in Menominee County and have one daughter attending Michigan Technological University. His formal campaign announcement is scheduled for Friday, October 24, at Loadmaster in Norway.
The 38th Senate District includes all or parts of 15 Upper Peninsula counties, from Gogebic to Mackinac. More information about Prestin’s campaign can be found at www.DavePrestinforSenate.com.
