Biography
Matt Schlinker is the Democratic candidate for Michigan House of Representatives District 68 in the November 3, 2026 general election, challenging incumbent Republican Rep. David Martin.[1][2] A retired auto worker and Genesee County native, he said in a 2026 Ballotpedia survey that he is running to take the people's principles to Lansing.[3]
Matt Schlinker graduated from Flint Northern High School, and Ballotpedia lists his career experience as quality engineer.[2] In a 2026 Ballotpedia survey, he described himself as a husband, father, and grandfather.[3] In the August 4, 2026 Democratic primary he defeated Isaiah Grays with 67.4% of the vote.[2]
Schlinker's three campaign messages were making Michigan more affordable, protecting public schools, students, and teachers, and making government more honest and transparent.[3] He said he is passionate about supporting union jobs and collective bargaining rights, well-funded public schools and career and vocational training, and campaign finance reform and FOIA transparency for state government.[3]
- 1.Michigan House of Representatives elections, 2026 - Ballotpedia · Ballotpedia Reference
- 2.Matt Schlinker - Ballotpedia · Ballotpedia Reference
- 3.Matt Schlinker, 2026 Candidate Connection survey responses - Ballotpedia · Ballotpedia Candidate's own words
Researched from the cited sources on 2026-10-21. Not yet independently fact-checked.
Michigan House District 68
Matt Schlinker is on the Nov 3, 2026 ballot for Michigan House District 68 as D. Not researched in depth — candidate list only.