East Central House Democrats Reaffirm Housing Affordability, Small Businesses and Working-Family Priorities After State of the State
Joint Press Statement | State Reps. Cynthia Neeley, Amos O’Neal and Jasper Martus
LANSING, Mich., Feb. 25, 2026 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address before a joint legislative session today. In her speech, Whitmer set forth her priorities for the year ahead. With affordability concerns top of mind for many, the address was an opportunity for House Democrats to reflect on legislative successes that helped bring down costs and provide relief for Michiganders.
In response to the address, state Reps. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint), Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw) and Jasper Martus (D-Flushing) released the following statements:
“I am very proud to welcome my daughter, Taylor, to the House floor tonight. She is a constant reminder that the work we do here is about strengthening families and building a future where the next generation can stay, grow and thrive in Michigan,” said Neeley. “I appreciate Gov. Whitmer’s focus on housing affordability and the need to expand safe, stable housing in communities like Flint and across Genesee County. I will continue working with the governor and colleagues on both sides of the aisle to lower costs, protect public health and safety, and make Michigan a more affordable and welcoming place for every family.”
“The governor’s State of the State address set the tone for the year ahead and reinforced the need to deliver steady, reliable results for Michigan families and the small businesses that are the engines of our communities,” said O’Neal. “That starts with an on-time budget and a focus on lowering everyday costs, from health care and housing to the everyday expenses small business owners face just to stay open. I will continue working to advance practical policies that support small business owners, strengthen our local economy and address the real challenges facing families and local businesses.”
“Michiganders are dealing with an affordability crisis in health care and housing. I’m glad to hear the governor is taking these issues seriously and I am looking forward to working with her in the coming year to address them,” said Martus.
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