Xiong Calls for Relief to Working Families, Welcomes Ann Vue During State of the State Address

Democratic legislator commends governor’s proposal to lower costs, urges for an on-time budget that puts working people first

 

LANSING, Mich., Feb. 26, 2026 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State Address yesterday evening to a joint legislative body and guests, sharing her priorities for the year ahead. In her speech, the governor shared proposals to create jobs, lower costs, build more affordable housing and continue building on record investments in education and literacy.

In response to the address, state Rep. Mai Xiong (D-Warren), who has tirelessly worked to ensure working families are prioritized in the legislative process, issued the following statement:

“Our number one job this year is clear: lowering costs for working and middle-class families. That means relentlessly pursuing relief for every avenue of daily life, including expanding access to child care and protecting Medicaid and passing solutions like my legislation, House Bill 6058, to relieve health care costs for public employees. Last year, we faced barriers at every step to get this work done, but my Democratic colleagues and I never backed down. 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.

“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, the 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. Their contributions to Michigan are invaluable.”

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