Slavens to Face Barnabei in 21st House Race in Nov. 6 Election

Dian Slavens of Canton easily won the Democratic primary for Michigan's 21st House on Tuesday, but she's approaching November's general election with caution.

"I'm going to work really hard and do it again in November," she said Tuesday after defeating primary opponent Kiz Ahamiojie of Belleville, earning 90 percent of the vote, according to unofficial election results. "I'll work hard to get re-elected. The constituents are very happy with what I'm doing, but I won't take anything for granted."

Slavens will run against political newcomer Joe Barnabei, a Van Buren Republican. Slavens said she isn't too familiar with her Republican opponent, who was uncontested in his Republican primary race Tuesday.

Barnabei, who spent the day working a 12-hour shift for a staffing company in Southfield, acknowledged taking on Slavens in November will pose a challenge for someone new to the local political scene.

"Honestly, Rep. Slavens as an incumbent is a known name in the community," he said. "It won't be an easy task. I'll be knocking on doors to get the right message out there."