With most precincts reporting, incumbent Dave Pagel is projected to be re-elected as State Representative for the 78th District.

“It is humbling and very rewarding to win an election again by a pretty good margin,” said Pagel, a Republican. “I appreciate everyone’s support and don’t take it for granted.”

Pagel, of Berrien Springs, was elected to the position in 2012.

He was leading Democratic challenger Cartier Shields by a two-to-one margin with only a few precincts left to report.

“It has been an honor to serve in this first term and I look forward to a second term where I can hopefully play more of a leadership role in Lansing,” Pagel said.