Carter Reflects on Inaugural Michigan Legislative Exchange Project

Democratic lawmaker hosted state Rep. Greg Markkanen for bipartisan initiative

LANSING, Mich., June 5, 2025 — State Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac) proudly hosted state Rep. Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock) last month as part of the Michigan Legislative Exchange (MILE) Project. This bipartisan initiative is meant to strengthen understanding and cooperation between lawmakers representing different regions and perspectives across Michigan.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program and to host Rep. Markkanen in my community. It’s been a privilege to share time on the ground together, hearing directly from working families and community leaders about the challenges they face and the solutions they’re building. So much of what we’ve discussed reflects the everyday concerns in both of our communities. Despite geographic distance, our constituents share many of the same struggles and aspirations. Programs like this are a powerful reminder that collaboration across districts and party lines can lead to stronger, more informed policymaking. I’m looking forward to part two of this exchange, when I’ll have the chance to visit Rep. Markkanen’s district and continue this vital conversation on how we can better serve families experiencing poverty and economic hardship,” Carter said. 

Both legislators took this as an opportunity to engage in open dialogue about the unique challenges and opportunities facing Michiganders, with the goal of fostering collaboration and mutual respect. For the exchange, Carter showed Markkanen all around her district while hosting conversations on housing and food insecurity, physical and mental health and veterans’ affairs. 

“It’s a great program. I encourage my colleagues to give it a try with an open mind. It promotes bipartisanship. I have a better understanding of my colleague’s urban district, and she’ll have a better understanding of my rural district when she visits. Thank you, Representative Carter, for having me. I look forward to returning the favor,” said state Rep. Greg Markkanen (R-Hancock).

MILE is modeled after the successful American Congressional Exchange, launched in 2018 to advance bipartisanship among members of the U.S. Congress.

“We were proud of this inaugural trip which brought together two members from distinct regions of Michigan to learn and engage in substantive policy dialogues,” said Jonathon Perman, founder and co-director of the American Congressional Exchange.

Carter’s trip to Markkanen’s District in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is anticipated for early summer.

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