The new Democratic governor outlined her policy priorities during her first State of the State address Tuesday. Bridge offers context behind the proposals and what Republicans and other skeptics had to say in response.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer
Posted inMichigan Government
Whitmer changes course, blocks $10M grant that helps former GOP chair
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has put on ice a grant that would help bring water and sewer lines to a swath of land owned by a company with ties to former GOP chair Bobby Schostak. She wants to determine if the money could be spent elsewhere.
Posted inTalent & Education
The real state of Michigan education: Improving outcomes costs money
Whitmer campaigned on improving Michigan schools. Education leaders across the state offer suggestions to accomplish that goal.
Posted inMichigan Government
The real state of no-fault auto insurance: Reform within reach for Michigan
Lawmakers and advocates say they see hope that a Republican legislature and Democratic governor can finally reform Michigan’s sky high insurance rates.
Posted inMichigan Government
The real state of Michigan roads: Poor and getting worse without more cash
The Michigan Department of Transportation cites studies showing as much as $2 billion more a year is needed to maintain the state’s roads. Republicans say new funding should come from existing revenue. Something has to give.
Posted inMichigan Government
Pro-Whitmer group broke Michigan campaign finance laws, Benson finds
Build a Better Michigan and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s campaign committee engaged in express advocacy, Democratic Sec. of State Jocelyn Benson announced Friday, and must pay pay a $37,500 fine.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Gretchen Whitmer is smart to keep Michigan PFAS response team
The cross-department team addressing the dangers of PFAS contaminants was created by Whitmer’s Republican predecessor, Rick Snyder. Protecting our environment isn’t a partisan issue.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan Senate debates reversing Gov. Whitmer’s environmental overhaul
The conversation follows a House vote to block Whitmer’s executive order to transform the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. It’s the latest in a power struggle that may derail bipartisanship.
Posted inMichigan Environment Watch
Michigan Republicans move to block Gov. Whitmer’s environmental overhaul
One month after taking office and pledging to work with Republicans, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s plans to reorganize the state’s environment agency face a challenge from Republican lawmakers. They’re upset she plans to abolish oversight groups that give businesses a say in regulations.
Posted inGuest Commentary
Opinion | Fix the damn pipes, Gov. Whitmer
It doesn’t get headlines like potholes, but water infrastructure also needs to be fixed.