Key agricultural exports from Michigan have dropped steeply as farmers face fallout from federal trade disputes and drought conditions.
Lauren Gibbons
Lauren Gibbons covers state politics and government for Bridge Michigan, tracking the Michigan Legislature, elections and the impact of federal policy on the state. Before joining Bridge, she led Legislature and redistricting coverage at MLive and covered the state Senate for MIRS News. She has covered Michigan politics for more than a decade, winning awards for her political and criminal justice reporting.
A Lansing native who graduated from Michigan State University, Lauren is now based in Ferndale. Her party tricks include telling friends which political districts they live in without looking.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan kids left behind in indigent defense system: ‘It’s absolutely critical’
Michigan funds and oversees free attorneys for adults accused of crimes. Kids are left out, but advocates are pushing for change.
Posted inMichigan Government
‘Right to hug’ suits claim Michigan jails blocking family visits for profit
Most Michigan county jails don’t offer in-person visits by family members. A pair of lawsuits argue they’re profiting off video calls instead.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan’s last ‘sanctuary’ standing? Why East Lansing is a Trump immigration target
East Lansing’s immigration-friendly “sanctuary” status has made it a target of the Trump administration. It’s an “honor,” according to a local official who says the city has no plan to change course.
Posted inMichigan Government
In 32nd lawsuit against Trump, Michigan AG Dana Nessel defends $37M for crime victims
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is suing the Trump administration for tying annual crime victim funding to immigration enforcement. It’s the latest of more than 30 multistate lawsuits the Democrat has joined against Trump policies.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan makes prisoners pay for doctor visits. Critics call it a costly mistake
Advocates say requiring medical copays by Michigan prisoners discourages them from seeking preventive care and ultimately raises costs for taxpayers. Some lawmakers want to put an end to the practice.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan expunged a refugee’s criminal record. He may be deported anyway
A 47-year-old Hmong immigrant who came to the US legally as an infant but was convicted on a home invasion charge as a young adult was detained last month. His family fears the worst if he’s deported to a country he’s never known.
Posted inMichigan Government
Critics: ‘Prison gerrymandering’ gives some Michiganders extra ‘political clout’
Prisoners can’t vote, but Michigan includes them in local population counts when creating new political districts. Critics say that should change.
Posted inMichigan Government
After complaints, Michigan seeks new system to guide youth incarcerations
A Bridge investigation found the system included questions that could boost incarcerations for youths of color. After nearly a year, the state is pivoting.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan tax capture law spurs new affordable housing. The cost? $144,000 per unit
Michigan is giving developers $84 million in property tax rebates to build high-demand housing that includes at least some ‘affordable’ units. Critics question the value of the incentive, which will limit future tax revenues for schools.