State Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) standing with her guest at the State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 on the House Floor at the Capitol Building in Lansing.

State Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) stands with her guest at the State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 on the House Floor at the Capitol Building in Lansing.

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 26, 2026 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address before a joint legislative session yesterday evening, setting 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. Priority-focuses also narrowed in on the past and future legislative work on the cost of living, health care, education, jobs and safe neighborhoods.

After the address, state Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) issued the following statement:

“It was my pleasure to bring Jeannette Bradshaw as my guest. Jeannette is the recording secretary of IBEW 58, the same union my grandfather was a member of in the early 1950s. Having spent over 40 years in a union, I know how vital they are to protect our workers and make sure they receive fair pay at a time when affordability concerns are top of mind for many. Lowering costs and providing relief for Michigan are some of my top priorities, and I’m glad to hear the governor agrees. 

“I was also enthusiastic to hear the governor reiterate her dedication to major investments to support student literacy and achievement. We know that literacy continues to be an issue for our students, and investing intelligently in education will be essential to set our kids up for long-term success. I look forward to working with my colleagues to secure funding that brings relief to Michiganders and uplifts our next generation.” 

State Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) receiving shoutout from Gov. Whitmer at the State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 on the House Floor at the Capitol Building in Lansing.

State Rep. Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens) receives shoutout from Gov. Whitmer at the State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 on the House Floor at the Capitol Building in Lansing.

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