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ProPublica: Gov. Whitmer’s Legacy Thwarted by Failed Legislative Session

“Michigan Democrats Fall Short on Campaign Promises: What Went Wrong?”

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s campaign promises are at risk of going unfulfilled as the state’s Democrats failed to come together on a legislative agenda in the final days of 2024. After leading all branches of government for the past two years, Democrats lost their trifecta when Republicans regained control of the state House. Despite starting with a multibillion-dollar budget surplus, Democrats were unable to make significant progress on key issues facing the state.

Bills aimed at increasing transparency in the governor’s office and Legislature, repealing Michigan’s emergency manager law, charging royalties to bottled water companies for groundwater extraction, and addressing the state’s infrastructure needs all went unaddressed. Efforts to reform Michigan’s Wrongful Imprisonment Compensation Act and ensure health plans cover new cancer therapies also fell by the wayside.

The lack of progress has left many advocates and lawmakers frustrated, with concerns about the potential misuse of power and the impact of secrecy in state government. The failure to address road funding and other critical issues has raised questions about the effectiveness of Democratic leadership in Michigan.

Despite some successes in the first year of Democratic control, including repealing the state’s “right-to-work” law and expanding reproductive rights, the lack of action in 2024 has been deemed one of the least productive legislative sessions in history. The split government and internal conflicts have hindered progress on key issues, leaving many promises unfulfilled.

As the new legislative session begins, there is renewed hope for progress on transparency and accountability measures. However, with many bills unlikely to take effect until after Whitmer’s term concludes, the window of opportunity to fulfill campaign promises is rapidly closing. Whitmer’s commitment to transparency and accountability will be put to the test as she faces mounting pressure to deliver on her campaign pledges.

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