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Michigan Government

‘Please, I need a clerk!’ No candidates for almost 500 positions on Michigan ballots

by Ron French and Simon D. Schuster October 19, 2026October 19, 2026

Low pay and public criticism makes local government jobs less appealing than in the past, officials say.

A man stands atop a hilltop surrounded by surveying equipment

Outdoors Life

Study claims Michigan’s high point has changed, but is it official?

by Laura Herberg October 16, 2026October 16, 2026

For decades, Mount Arvon has been recognized as Michigan’s highest natural point. A study published in 2025 claims Mount Curwood is in fact taller but the lead researcher has struggled to get recognition for his finding.

Michigan Government

Michigan elections: What Democrats, Republicans say they’d do if they win big

by Jordyn Hermani October 15, 2026October 15, 2026

From property tax cuts to prescription drug price relief, Michigan leaders are preparing policy wishlists to pursue if their party wins full control of state government this fall.

Construction site for a large data center with heavy equipment, utility poles, temporary buildings, and workers spread across the property beside a roadway under cloudy skies.

Business Watch, Michigan Environment Watch

Fact check: What’s true and what’s not in Michigan’s data center debate

by Eli Newman October 14, 2026October 15, 2026

From noise pollution to job creation, experts weigh in on the biggest claims about the infrastructure that powers AI.

Michigan Government

Can John James close the gap on Jocelyn Benson in the Michigan governor’s race?

by Simon D. Schuster October 13, 2026October 13, 2026

As a national group withdraws financial support for John James, some see ‘echoes of 2022’ for the Republican gubernatorial nominee.

Wind turbines surround the Scheurer in Michigan’s rural Thumb, and are reflected in the window of one of the hospital’s entry doors.

Michigan Health Watch

Hidden fees cost Michigan patients millions. Lawmakers push reforms

by Robin Erb October 12, 2026October 12, 2026

‘Facility fees’ are buried deep in bills and often include little explanation. Health officials say they need the money to stay afloat, but won’t divulge much about the charges. One expert calls them a ‘black box.’

Sue Hartman, clerk of Courtland Township, poses for a portrait.

Michigan Government

A top Michigan clerk is quitting. She can’t take the voting lies anymore

by Ron French October 8, 2026October 9, 2026

This year, Sue Hartman was singled out by peers for excellence. But the Republican clerk says trying to convince her mostly Republican neighbors that elections are fair has taken its toll.