Longjohn, Rogers Call for Improvements in Health Care, Lowering Costs Following State of the State
Photo: State Reps. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo), in white, and Matt Longjohn (D-Portage) were joined by their moms on the House floor ahead of the 2026 State of the State address.
Joint Press Statement | State Reps. Matt Longjohn and Julie Rogers
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, invest in health care and provide relief for Michiganders.
After the address, state Reps. Dr. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage) and Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo) issued the following statements:
“Whether in the executive budget recommendation or her address tonight, it’s clear that Gov. Whitmer understands the real threats facing Michiganders’ health care are because of the so-called ‘One Big Beautiful Bill.’ Rising costs already force families to make painful choices about prescriptions and basic necessities, and these federal cuts to Medicaid only make that strain worse. I look forward to collaborating with her in any way possible to ensure Michiganders can live their healthiest possible lives,” said Longjohn.
“I appreciated the governor’s continued focus on protecting access to health care. Medicaid plays a critical role in supporting physical and mental health, preventive care and stability for millions of Michiganders. Tonight, I was proud to be joined by my mother, Marie, who taught nursing at our local community college for more than three decades and dedicated her career to educating caregivers and empowering patients. She instilled in me the belief that health care works best when people can access it with quality, fairness and dignity,” said Rogers.
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