An executive order last week opened the door for investigations into both MSU and U-M over their diversity, equity and inclusion programs. Universities are walking a tightrope for fear of losing federal funding.
Ron French
Ron reports on a variety of subjects across the state. Ron came to Bridge in 2011 from The Detroit News, where he was a project reporter. Born and raised in Indiana, Ron graduated from Purdue University. He reported for newspapers across Indiana before moving to Michigan in 1995. Ron lives in Okemos, and like the true Michigander he’s become, he now has a family cabin Up North. You can reach him at rfrench@bridgemi.com or 517-214-3636.
Posted inMichigan Government
Trump order closes help desk in Detroit court for those facing deportation
A service that helped immigrants navigate the deportation process has been shuttered by President Donald Trump.
Posted inMichigan Government
As Trump threatens ‘sanctuary cities,’ Michigan officials ask: Who, us?
Amid warnings they could lose federal funding or face prosecution for failing to comply with Trump immigration orders, some Michigan officials are disputing ‘sanctuary’ designations.
Posted inMichigan Government
As Trump sworn in, Michigan loyalists cheer in DC: ‘I have to pinch myself’
Despite last-minute changes due to the weather, ebullient Republicans who traveled to Washington for the inauguration were overjoyed by the return of Trump.
Posted inMichigan Government
On MAGA bus from Michigan, redemption, celebration for Trump inauguration
An overnight bus ride was a satisfying end of four years of frustration for Michigan fans of Donald Trump. ‘I view him as the savior of the country just like George Washington,’ one says.
Posted inMichigan Health Watch
Whooping cough cases skyrocket in Michigan, as vaccinations decline
A potentially deadly disease in infants, whooping cough — pertussis — has exploded in Michigan this year, in part because of decreased vaccination rates.
Posted inMichigan Government
Ten ways Michigan may change under Trump, from doctors and EVs to school lunch
More doctors but fewer insurance options for the needy? Tax credits for private schools, but not EVs? Here’s what residents can expect in 2025 under President-elect Donald Trump.
Posted inTalent & Education
Broadband internet still lags in rural Michigan; new program links 30k homes
Michigan is 31st nationwide for broadband access, with 1 in 10 residents lacking access. Slowly but surely, though, it is spreading across rural Michigan.
Posted inMichigan Government
How nuclear plant, teacher layoffs inform Michigan’s ‘dark store’ tax debate
When big box stores receive lowered tax assessments, the impact is felt in schools and township halls. The tax policy may be debated in the upcoming ‘lame duck’ session.
Posted inMichigan Government
Democratic bills aim to rein in library book challenges in Michigan
The bills would set statewide standards, requiring books and movies to be declared obscene by courts before they are challenged. Democrats have six weeks to pass the legislation before losing the majority in the House.