MIDLAND, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – A new lawsuit aims to hold Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s feet to the fire and give 270,000 residents in the Bay City-Midland-Saginaw area state Senate representation once again.

The lawsuit, filed by Outside Legal Counsel, demands Whitmer call a special election to fill a vacant state senate seat in Michigan’s 35th Senate District. That seat has been empty for more than 200 days since voters elected former Michigan Senator, Kristen McDonald Rivet (D), to the U.S. House.

MORE NEWS: More Hamtramck Council Members Accused of Not Following the Law

“This isn’t about politics; it’s about the Constitution and the Michigan Constitution isn’t optional,” said Philip L. Ellison, attorney for the plaintiffs. “Every day this seat stays empty with no plan for fulfillment is another day 270,000 people are silenced in Lansing.”

Ellison, who normally litigates constitutional cases involving property rights, government accountability, and due process, emphasized the largest issue at stake: “The people’s right to representation is foundational to our democracy. We will fight to ensure that right is honored.”

Under Michigan law, the governor is the only person who can call a special election. Last week, a representative from Whitmer’s office said they expect an announcement about the special election “soon.”

In addition, a set of bills have been introduced in the Michigan House that would require the governor to call a special election within a certain amount of time if a seat is vacated.