The Democratic governor returns to the state Capitol for her annual address. She spoke for less than an hour. Here’s what to know, what obstacles loom and what potential programs cost.
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
End may be near for Michigan redistricting panel, a year after finishing maps
The commission created by voters in 2018 to end gerrymandering adopted a plan to go dormant this week once lawsuits against its work wrap up.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan Democrats move to strike abortion ban references from state law
‘We’re going to see a number of laws that are on the books right now be repealed’ with supporters of abortion rights holding legislative majority and other statewide offices, Attorney General Dana Nessel said Thursday.
Posted inMichigan Government
Michigan GOP to Democrats: Don’t mess with income tax rollback
Ballooning revenues could trigger an income tax rollback under a 2015 law backed by Republicans.
Posted inMichigan Government
Jocelyn Benson wants tougher penalties for harassing election workers
Protecting clerks and other election workers is at the top of the secretary of state’s legislative agenda. She’s got support from legislative Democrats.
Posted inMichigan Government
Report: Electric vehicle sales could cost Michigan roads $500M by 2030
Electric vehicles are on the rise in Michigan. But their increased use could mean bad news for Michigan roads if the gas tax remains the main funding source for repairs, a new report found.
Posted inMichigan Government
Right-to-Work repeal just a start: Michigan Democrats eye pro-worker agenda
From raising the minimum wage to expanding tax credits and mandating work breaks, Democrats may get aggressive on labor issues. Businesses are wary, to say the least.
Posted inMichigan Government
Hey Michigan Dems: Here are four ways to score bipartisan wins this year
Democrats are running the show in the Capitol this term, but enjoy only slight majorities in the House and Senate. Here are some issues likely to earn Republican support as they seek early victories.
Posted inMichigan Government
Meet Michigan’s new lawmakers: They’re younger, more educated, less diverse
The Michigan Legislature is full of folks who haven’t served in office, are Millennials or Gen X and come from backgrounds in teaching and business. There are more women, but fewer Black lawmakers.
Posted inMichigan Government
Gov. Whitmer sworn in for second term: 8 issues to watch in 2023 in Michigan
At her inauguration, Whitmer pledges work gun reform, tax cuts for seniors and legislation surrounding climate control. What else to expect from her next four years.