Michigan House Democrats Reaffirm Priorities After State of the State
Photo: Democratic Leader Ranjeev Puri (D-Canton) attends the State of the State address on Wednesday, Feb. 25, 2026 at the Capitol Building in Lansing.
Joint Press Release | Michigan House Democratic Caucus
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 and highlighted accomplishments from her as governor. 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 and necessary support for Michiganders.
After the address, members of the Michigan House Democratic Caucus issued the following statements:
“Every day, I wake up with the goal of making Michigan the best place to start and raise a family. Affordable groceries and child care, safe neighborhoods, strong public schools and good paying jobs allow parents to build a future here. When families have real economic opportunity, they set down roots and invest in their communities,” said Democratic Floor Leader John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “Gov. Whitmer offered multiple strategies to lower costs, which is great to hear, because these challenges demand a comprehensive approach. Now it is on us to follow through. I am committed to helping Michiganders — families, workers, seniors, students — truly thrive.”
“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,” said Denise Mentzer (D-Mt. Clemens).
“I was proud to bring Ann Vue as my guest this evening. Ann is the wife of Lue Yang, who was unjustly detained by ICE and subsequently pardoned by the governor this past year after months of advocacy from his family, our community, myself and fellow legislators. It was an honor to bring Ann onto the House floor, as she truly exemplifies the spirit of this state. Lue and Ann lead their lives with perseverance, hard work and immense love for their neighbors,” said state Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren). “Our number one job this year is clear: lowering costs for working and middle-class families. I am glad to hear that the governor is setting the intention now to put working families first, and I am once again prepared to stop at nothing to ensure we deliver on this promise.”
“Gov. Whitmer’s address underscored something we know with certainty: Michigan’s future depends on creating good-paying jobs and making life more affordable for everyone, from young professionals and seniors on fixed incomes to families raising kids and small business owners working to grow. All across Detroit, residents are feeling the strain of rising costs, and it’s our responsibility to deliver real relief where we can. I’ll be fighting to prioritize investments that bring down everyday expenses, support job creation and workforce development and ensure policies are focused on putting more money back in Michiganders’ pockets,” said state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit).
“Making our state more affordable has to remain a top priority, especially as families navigate higher costs for housing, health care and everyday essentials. House Democrats are focused on practical solutions that ease these burdens while strengthening the community resources people rely on. That includes ensuring veterans and their families — along with seniors, workers and small business owners — have access to the support and opportunities they need to thrive. I was glad to see some of these priorities mirrored in the governor’s address,” said state Rep. Jennifer Conlin (D-Ann Arbor Charter Twp.).
“It’s encouraging to see our shared Democratic priorities front and center in the governor’s address. My focus remains simple: delivering results Michiganders can actually feel. That means classroom-first investments to boost literacy and ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed,” said state Rep. Jason Morgan (D-Ann Arbor). “It means fixing the ‘pothole tax’ by putting infrastructure dollars directly into our local communities where they’re needed most. And it means relentlessly pursuing affordability — saving seniors and families money by repealing the retirement tax and expanding family tax credits. I’m committed to solutions that work as hard for Michiganders as they do for their own families.”
“My focus is clear: protecting taxpayers and prioritizing affordability. Every dollar spent should reflect the real issues Michiganders are facing, from higher grocery bills to housing costs. In the months ahead, I will work to ensure decisions are made to lower costs where it matters,” said state Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit).
“Tonight’s address reflected what families are asking for: lower costs, safer communities and leadership grounded in humanity. Effective policy must protect people, especially those most vulnerable to exploitation and harm. That is why I will continue advancing my bipartisan human trafficking package while working to make housing, health care and everyday necessities more affordable for working families,” said state Rep. Kelly Breen (D-Novi).
“As we look ahead, our focus must be on making smart investments that lower costs, while we continue to support all Michiganders. I was grateful to attend the address alongside Warren City Council Member Mindy Moore, and I’ll continue working closely with my local communities making sure every dollar we invest delivers real results for our residents,” said state Rep. Mike McFall (D-Hazel Park).
“It was great to hear about the many successes the governor and the Legislature have accomplished over these past eight years. While there have been many challenges, we made substantial progress on education, including guaranteeing universal school meals for kids as well as targeted funding in literacy education and teacher retention. As a former teacher, I know how crucial these kinds of investments are to our kids’ success both in and out of the classroom,” said state Rep. Morgan Foreman (D-Pittsfield Twp.) “I look forward to this upcoming budget season to get more work done on providing necessary economic relief for people struggling with higher costs, and expanding access to affordable, accessible health care for every Michigander.”
“My priority remains building up our infrastructure on all fronts, from adding to last year’s massive success on road funding with new resources to protecting our drinking water and updating our outdated water infrastructure. Higher education is another important issue for me, and investing in the next generation of thinkers ensures Michigan continues to be an excellent place to learn, grow and put down roots,” said state Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D-Farmington Hills).
“Gov. Whitmer has been a strong partner in moving Michigan forward and supporting working families. But the reality is that too many people across our state are still struggling to afford everyday life,” said state Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn). “Michigan families are trying to keep up with higher grocery bills, rising housing costs and health care that just keeps getting more expensive. People are working hard and doing everything they’re supposed to do, but it still feels impossible to get ahead. We must deliver bold solutions that make a full, dignified life possible for everyone in Michigan.”
“Families shouldn’t have to choose between paying the bills and planning their future. As we shape this year’s budget, we need to keep a sharp focus on easing everyday expenses — from housing and energy costs to child care and transportation access. Real affordability means creating an environment where people can get ahead, not just get by, and that requires disciplined budgeting and policies that deliver lasting relief,” said state Rep. Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac).
“The upcoming budget process will be critical to turning priorities into real, responsible action. My focus remains on crafting a balanced, sustainable budget that invests in economic growth, strengthens education and addresses long-standing infrastructure needs without overburdening taxpayers. I’m committed to working with my colleagues to ensure every dollar is spent wisely and delivers meaningful results for the people we represent,” said state Rep Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park).
“The first step toward a better world is education, which is why I was glad to hear the governor hit on literacy as a key priority this year. The $625 million in literacy-specific funding will go a long way toward improving our students’ educational outcomes and making sure they are set up for long-term success in and out of the classroom. It is essential that we support the next generation of Michiganders, so Michigan continues to be a great place to live,” said state Rep. Jimmie Wilson, Jr. (D-Ypsilanti).
“Affordability must remain at the forefront of every policy discussion. Michiganders are feeling the pressure of rising costs, and our responsibility is to advance solutions that lower everyday expenses while strengthening the communities people are proud to call home. By supporting local businesses, investing in safe neighborhoods and ensuring access to quality schools and reliable infrastructure, we can build vibrant communities that offer opportunity and stability for everyone,” said state Rep. Peter Herzberg (D-Westland).
“Education remains the most reliable pathway to opportunity and a cornerstone of the American Dream, and I appreciate the governor’s focus on strengthening literacy and easing costs for families,” said state Rep. Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy). “The proposed Every Child Reads plan expands before-, after- and summer school learning, continues free Pre-K, implements a research-based reading curriculum and strengthens teacher training through LETRS and the science of reading. I am also encouraged by the proposed sales tax exemptions on school supplies to help families prepare for the school year without added financial strain. Investing in literacy while lowering everyday costs is a smart, practical approach that supports students, educators and working families across Michigan.”
“Investing in behavioral health must be a central part of our work this year. Too many families are struggling to access timely, affordable mental health and substance use services, and that gap impacts our schools, our workforce and our public safety systems. As we move through the budget process, we need to prioritize sustainable funding that expands access to care and ensures people can get the help they need close to home,” said state Rep. Kimberly Edwards (D-Eastpointe).
“I am particularly excited about specific funding for literacy programs, as well as teacher retention funds and continued free community college to expand educational opportunities for all Michiganders. Additionally, healthcare continues to be an issue top of mind for many, especially with cuts to Medicaid and Medicare at the federal level. We must protect Medicaid here in Michigan, and I will advocate to support our direct-care workers, provide our seniors necessary in-home care and ensure Michiganders can age peacefully and comfortably in place,” said state Rep. Natalie Price (D-Berkley).
“The governor’s address reflected on the progress Michigan has made in recent years and our responsibility to govern with purpose. It also highlighted the need for policy to combat rising costs that continue to place real strain on individuals and families across our state. I am committed to working with colleagues in both parties to advance practical, evidence-based policies and investments that strengthen our public schools, expand access to affordable housing, and promote economic conditions that allow working families to succeed,” said state Rep. Jason Hoskins (D-Southfield).
“This year’s address emphasized a renewed focus on education and giving our kids the best start to life possible. I’m glad to hear the governor’s plan to continue funding universal pre-K for every Michigander as well as universal school meals. As a teacher, I understand the importance of students having access to the resources they need, so they can learn and grow to their full potential,” said state Rep. Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn).
“Every child deserves access to a high-quality public education. But too many families are stretching their budgets just to cover basic needs. This year, I will advocate for protecting and expanding strong investments in our neighborhood schools, expanded student support services and responsible policies that lower everyday costs. Investing in education and improving affordability aren’t separate goals — they are both essential to building long-term opportunity,” said state Rep. Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park).
“The governor made it very clear tonight: we need to be focused on the issues that Michiganders feel every single day: affordability, safety and access to child care. Lowering costs remains a top priority, and we must also invest in proven community violence intervention programs that keep neighborhoods safe and prevent harm before it happens. At the same time, expanding access to affordable, reliable child care helps parents stay in the workforce and strengthens our local economy. Responsible investments support families at home, protect communities and create real opportunity for the next generation,” said state Rep. Donavan McKinney (D-Detroit).
“I’m grateful Gov. Whitmer continues to elevate the urgency of Michigan’s housing crisis and the need for structural solutions. For years, I have worked to advance reforms that address the root causes of our housing shortage — not just the symptoms,” said state Rep. Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids). “The Housing Readiness Package is about modernizing outdated systems that quietly drive up costs and limit opportunity. By creating clearer, more predictable standards around lot size, parking, dwelling dimensions, and local review processes, we can expand housing options while maintaining meaningful local input.”
“Tonight, Gov. Whitmer laid out an agenda that is laser-focused on what Michiganders need most – lower costs, more housing and affordable health care,” said state Rep. Stephen Wooden (D-Grand Rapids). “Now it’s on us in the Legislature to act and I am ready to work for real, long-term solutions that strengthen your pocketbook, including a budget that is people-focused, responsible and on time.”
“We need to make sure that we are always putting the people of Michigan first — far too many are struggling with high costs. Michiganders need relief and solutions, not slogans. We need to lower the costs of housing, health care and child care. Michigan must work to make education and literacy a true priority — other states have shown it works, and we can too. I am excited by many of the proposals laid out tonight. I am ready to tackle these problems head on,” said state Rep. Will Snyder (D-Muskegon).
“I’m committed to working tirelessly for a budget that delivers lasting affordability solutions and ensures every Michigander has access to a high-quality education,” said state Rep. Carol Glanville (D-Walker). “I was encouraged to hear that the governor remains committed to lowering costs and strengthening literacy support for our communities.”
“The cost of child care should not be a barrier between Michiganders and starting a family. If we want to grow our state and support working parents, we have to make sure safe, high quality, reliable child care is within reach,” said state Rep. Phil Skaggs (D-East Grand Rapids). “We have made progress. Now we need to keep diligently moving forward. I look forward to working with my colleagues on a budget that will invest responsibly in our communities.
“Tonight, I was honored to be joined by my guest Bridget Brink, former ambassador to Ukraine, who knows firsthand the impact of dysfunction coming from D.C. Economic worries are top of mind for many, but the federal government passing massive tax cuts for the wealthy does nothing to help Michiganders afford groceries or their rent,” said state Rep. Julie Brixie (D-Meridian Twp.). “We’re going to have to make thoughtful decisions that directly support Michigan families in need. Michiganders are counting on us.”
“I have long advocated for Michigan’s unions and working families because people deserve safe, healthy workplaces and a dignified, living wage. Recently, I’ve worked with labor partners to start to put guardrails around AI and put workers first. I hope we continue with this important work this coming year and get a budget that puts working families first,” said state Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing).
“It is vital that we work in collaboration with impacted communities when making policy decisions. I have long advocated for disability justice, including introducing a bill last year that would ensure hearing aids are covered by health insurance. Additionally, I recently introduced the SAFER Act which, in part, would protect students with disabilities if they experience harassment or bullying in schools. I look forward to making progress on these issues in the year ahead,” said state Rep. Emily Dievendorf (D-Lansing).
“Lowering costs means standing up for consumers, protecting working families, and making sure no one is paying more because the system is stacked against them. In my final year in the House, I will continue fighting for policies that strengthen communities, promote accountability, and make Michigan work for everyone,” said state Rep. Kara Hope (D-Holt).
“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 state Rep. Dr. Matt Longjohn (D-Portage).
“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 state Rep. Julie Rogers (D-Kalamazoo).
“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 state Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint). “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 state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw). “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 state Rep. Jasper Martus (D-Flushing).
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