POLITICS

The latest politics coverage from Detroit and Metro Detroit.

Women in Ministry: Detroit's Black Church Leaders Speak Out

Three Detroit Black church leaders discuss the barriers women in ministry face and the collaborative efforts building support networks for female faith leaders.

Nina Vasquez | April 7, 2026

Charming European city street scene with historic architecture, people walking, and a city bus under a bright sky.

Air Quality & Cumulative Pollution in Southwest Detroit

Southwest Detroit residents face 58 pollution sources within miles of their homes. Here's what cumulative impact means and why it matters for your health.

By Nina Vasquez | April 7, 2026

Sheffield's State of the City: Every Neighborhood Deserves Investment

Mayor Mary Sheffield delivered her first State of the City address at Mumford High School, pledging neighborhood-first investment across all of Detroit.

By Nina Vasquez | April 6, 2026

Detroit Students Ride City Buses Free Under New Program

Detroit's Ride and Rise pilot program lets students show their ID and ride DDOT buses for free, launching Wednesday to combat chronic absenteeism.

By Nina Vasquez | April 6, 2026

A striking modern architectural facade of a government building in Binh Duong, Vietnam.

Detroit Schools Hiring Student Influencers to Boost Enrollment

Detroit Public Schools plans to pay 23 high school students $250/month to create social media content promoting their schools to prospective families.

By Nina Vasquez | April 2, 2026

Detroit Mayor Sheffield's State of the City: Housing & Safety

Mayor Mary Sheffield delivers her first State of the City address at Mumford High School, focusing on housing, public safety, and neighborhood investment.

By Nina Vasquez | March 31, 2026

Detroit 2026-2027 Budget Hearings: What to Know

Mayor Mary Sheffield's $3B Detroit budget proposal includes a property tax cut, transit funding, and raises for city workers. Here's what to know.

By Nina Vasquez | March 31, 2026

The White House, an iconic symbol of American history and politics in Washington, DC.

Trump Voted by Mail but Wants to Ban It for Most Americans

Trump voted by mail in Florida's special election while pushing to ban it nationally. His four-word explanation: 'Because I'm president.'

By Nina Vasquez | March 30, 2026

DPD Chief Defends ShotSpotter: 256 Arrests in Detroit

Detroit Police Chief Todd Bettison urged City Council to renew ShotSpotter, citing 256 arrests and 114 shooting victims potentially saved in one year.

By Nina Vasquez | March 30, 2026

Front view of Uruguay's Palacio Legislativo in Montevideo on a clear day.

Detroit 36th District Court Seeks $1.8M Budget Boost

Chief Judge McConico says Detroit's 36th District Court needs $1.8M more than proposed, citing a civil case surge and below-living-wage employees.

By Nina Vasquez | March 30, 2026

The United States Capitol building dome against a blue sky in Washington, DC, architectural landmark.

Michigan Lame Duck Lawmakers Collected Pay Without Showing Up

Michigan taxpayers funded travel reimbursements for defeated lawmakers who didn't attend legislative sessions, exposing gaps in the state's honor-system expense oversight.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

Stunning view of a historic church hall with mountains in the background.

Detroit Council Urges Wayne County Tax Foreclosure Moratorium

Detroit City Council voted to urge Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree to seek a state moratorium on property tax foreclosures for owner-occupied homes.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

Person in denim holding a ballot box with a US flag, emphasizing voting rights.

Michigan GOP Endorses Lloyd for Attorney General, Forlini for Secretary of State

Michigan Republican Party endorses Matt Lloyd for attorney general and Bob Forlini for secretary of state ahead of 2026 elections to challenge Democratic incumbents.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

Aerial view of Detroit city showcasing historic and modern buildings under a cloudy sky.

Detroit Council Pushes Wayne County Tax Foreclosure Moratorium

Detroit City Council urges Wayne County to pause tax foreclosures on occupied homes, citing displacement of Black homeowners and neighborhood destabilization.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

View of the prominent Putrajaya government building with flags, showcasing cultural diversity.

Monroe Schools Suspend AD for Supporting Trans Student

Monroe Public Schools placed Athletic Director Chet Hesson on paid leave after he expressed support for a transgender student facing harassment.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

Whitmer Signs Bill Preserving Licenses for 5,000 Michigan Doctors

Gov. Whitmer signed House Bill 5455 renewing Michigan's multistate medical licensure compact, saving licenses for roughly 5,000 doctors hours before expiration.

By Nina Vasquez | March 29, 2026

Protest sign displaying 'No Kings Since 1776' held alongside a small US flag, emphasizing democratic sentiments.

No Kings Protests Sweep Michigan in Nationwide Demonstrations

Thousands of Michiganders join the third wave of No Kings protests across Detroit, Lansing, and communities statewide, demanding elected officials answer to citizens.

By Nina Vasquez | March 28, 2026

A modern office with voting booths labeled 'Vote Day' indicating election activity.

Hamtramck Mayoral Ballots to Be Counted After Court Ruling

Michigan court orders election officials to tabulate 37 uncounted ballots from Hamtramck's 2026 mayoral primary that could change the race outcome.

By Nina Vasquez | March 28, 2026

A scenic view of the iconic US Capitol Building symbolizing American democracy in Washington DC.

Senate HELP Committee Debates College Athlete Employee Status

The Senate HELP Committee heard testimony on college sports reform, with debate centering on whether student-athletes should be classified as employees.

By Nina Vasquez | March 28, 2026

Senate Negotiates DHS Funding as Airport Lines Grow

Senate negotiators trade proposals on DHS funding while unpaid TSA officers call out sick, causing growing airport security delays nationwide.

By Nina Vasquez | March 28, 2026

No Kings Protests: What Comes Next for the Movement?

Millions are expected at No Kings protests nationwide. But organizers and political scientists are asking: do massive demonstrations actually change anything?

By Nina Vasquez | March 28, 2026

Exterior view of the iconic US Capitol Building on a sunny day in Washington, DC.

Barack Obama Leadership Academy Faces Closure in Detroit

Detroit's Barack Obama Leadership Academy faces closure after school board members signal they won't renew the charter school's contract beyond June 30.

By Nina Vasquez | March 27, 2026

A group of diverse supporters at a political rally in Michigan.

Michigan Party Conventions Pick Secretary of State, Attorney General

Michigan is one of three states where party delegates, not voters, select nominees for secretary of state and attorney general through conventions.

By Nina Vasquez | March 26, 2026

Michigan's $261M Failed Megafactory Plan Revealed

Michigan spent $261 million demolishing homes for a megafactory that never materialized. Now the state seeks $150 million more for similar projects.

By Nina Vasquez | March 26, 2026

Whitmer Seeks $150M More for Michigan Megasites

Governor Whitmer pushes for $150M additional investment in Michigan megasites as $261M project awaits major manufacturer deals.

By Nina Vasquez | March 26, 2026

Majestic view of the Idaho State Capitol with its iconic dome under a cloudy sky.

Detroit Adding 312 Speed Humps in 2026 Across 230 Streets

Detroit will install 312 speed humps on 230 residential streets in 2026, marking 10 years and over 11,400 total installations since the program launched.

By Nina Vasquez | March 25, 2026

A diverse group of pedestrians and a cyclist crossing an urban street, showcasing city life.

Gordie Howe Bridge Bike & Pedestrian Path Will Be Toll-Free

Pedestrians and cyclists can cross the Gordie Howe International Bridge toll-free, but valid ID is still required for border crossing.

By Nina Vasquez | March 25, 2026

Joe Tate's Historic Speakership & Detroit Legislative Legacy

Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate, the first Black legislator to hold the position, announces his departure from public life after leading major legislative victories.

By Nina Vasquez | March 25, 2026

Courthouse exterior representing legal proceedings and lawsuits

Michigan Sues DHS Over ICE Detention Center in Romulus

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel and Romulus file federal lawsuit to block conversion of warehouse into ICE detention facility near Detroit.

By Nina Vasquez | March 25, 2026

Voter casting a ballot into a ballot box during an election

Michigan Democrats Oppose Voter ID Ballot Proposal

Michigan Democratic Party formally opposes proposed ballot measure requiring photo ID for voting, calling it voter suppression ahead of 2026 elections.

By Nina Vasquez | March 24, 2026

Road construction scene with traffic signs and barriers

Teen's DIY Pothole Repair in Dearborn Heights Goes Viral

A Dearborn Heights teenager's viral video of filling a pothole with cold-patch asphalt sparked city response and renewed debate over road maintenance funding.

By Marcus Cole | March 24, 2026

Detention facility scene representing immigration enforcement

Romulus Joins Lawsuit Against ICE Detention Facility

Romulus City Council votes to join lawsuit against DHS over ICE detention facility plans, challenging federal authority over local zoning and land use controls.

By Nina Vasquez | March 24, 2026

Urban skyline with modern buildings representing political leadership

Mary Sheffield Named Rising Star by EMILYs List

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield, the city's first woman mayor, has been nominated for EMILYs List's Gabrielle Giffords Rising Star Award.

By Nina Vasquez | March 23, 2026

Legislative chamber with circular seating arrangement

Michigan Public Notice Changes Threaten Transparency

Michigan House Republicans explore stripping newspapers of legally mandated public notice role, raising transparency concerns about government control.

By James Okafor | March 23, 2026

Police officers on patrol in a Detroit neighborhood

Community Violence Intervention: Detroit's CVI Programs

Detroit's community violence intervention programs aim to interrupt cycles of harm. Explore how transparency and accountability drive effective CVI initiatives.

By Nina Vasquez | March 23, 2026

Pedestrian walking near a QLINE streetcar on a rainy Detroit evening

Detroit Plans 3,000 New Street Lights for Residential Blocks

Detroit is installing 3,000 mid-block street lights across all seven council districts starting summer 2024, improving safety on unlit residential streets.

By Marcus Cole | March 23, 2026

Government capitol building representing state legislation

Benson Proposes Stricter Data Center Safeguards in Michigan

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jocelyn Benson unveils new requirements to regulate data centers, addressing energy consumption and community concerns.

By Nina Vasquez | March 22, 2026

State capitol building where utility rate decisions are made

Nessel Demands 85% Cut to DTE Gas Rate Hike

Michigan AG Dana Nessel seeks major reduction to DTE Energy's $237.5M natural gas rate increase, calling it 'bloated and unjustified.'

By Nina Vasquez | March 21, 2026

Mounted police officers patrolling a city street at night

Detroit Police Appoint First Full-Time Animal Cruelty Officer

Detroit PD creates dedicated animal cruelty officer position to address systemic gaps in enforcement after high-profile abuse case.

By Nina Vasquez | March 21, 2026

State capitol building where Michigan legislation is debated

Michigan Kratom Ban: Lawmakers Push Prohibition Bill

Michigan legislators advance kratom ban bill after emotional testimony from families. Supporters cite health risks; users argue it helps manage pain and addiction.

By Nina Vasquez | March 20, 2026

Aerial view of industrial factory emissions and air pollution

Michigan Pollution Exemption Law: What Detroit Residents Need

Detroit granted $46 million in pollution tax exemptions to industrial companies with no accountability. Learn how Michigan's Air Pollution Control Act works.

By Nina Vasquez | March 19, 2026

Aerial view of downtown Detroit with historic and modern architecture

Detroit City Council Advances Data Center Moratorium

Detroit City Council voted 6-2 to advance a moratorium on new data center development, pausing approvals while the city reviews its policy framework.

By Nina Vasquez | March 18, 2026

Distinctive modern architecture of a landmark building

Selfridge Air Show 2026 Canceled Due to Military Operations

Selfridge Air National Guard Base cancels 2026 Open House and Air Show, citing operational and readiness requirements amid Iran operations.

By Nina Vasquez | March 17, 2026

Government building representing Michigan state politics

Michigan Democrats Attack Rogers Over Gordie Howe Bridge

Democrats launch first 2026 Senate ad targeting Mike Rogers for his opposition to the Gordie Howe Bridge and ties to the Moroun family.

By Nina Vasquez | March 16, 2026

Aerial view of city buildings and roads during daytime

Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Creating Michigan Office of AI Policy

Governor Whitmer creates Michigan's first Office of AI Policy to develop statewide AI governance frameworks, workforce protections, and algorithmic transparency

By Nina Vasquez | March 15, 2026

Modern city buildings against cloudy sky

Detroit Residents Pack Public Hearing on Proposed Riverfront Development Zoning Changes

Over 400 residents attended a heated public hearing on a proposal to rezone 45 acres of Detroit riverfront property, raising concerns about gentrification and d

By Nina Vasquez | March 12, 2026

Wayne County Prosecutor Announces New Diversion Program for Nonviolent Offenders

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy launches new diversion program redirecting nonviolent offenders to community services instead of prosecution.

By Nina Vasquez | March 9, 2026

Michigan Democrats Introduce Bill to Cap Insulin Prices at $35 Statewide

Michigan Democrats introduced legislation Thursday to cap insulin prices at $35 monthly for all state residents, targeting coverage gaps left by federal protect

By Nina Vasquez | March 6, 2026

Detroit City Council Debates Data Center Moratorium Amid Energy Grid Concerns

Detroit City Council debates a proposed 18-month data center moratorium, with energy grid capacity and economic development interests colliding downtown.

By Nina Vasquez | March 2, 2026

State Legislature Proposes Bill to Restore Detroit Public School Funding to Pre-Emergency Manager Levels

State lawmakers introduced a bill to increase Detroit Public Schools funding by $342 million annually, restoring per-pupil spending to pre-emergency manager lev

By Nina Vasquez | February 27, 2026

Detroit Launches Participatory Budgeting Pilot Letting Residents Allocate $5 Million

Detroit launches $5 million participatory budgeting pilot in Midtown, letting residents propose and vote on neighborhood projects from spring through June 2026.

By Nina Vasquez | February 21, 2026

Michigan Attorney General Nessel Sues Over PFAS Contamination Near Detroit Water Intake

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel sues 3M, DuPont, and Chemours over PFAS contamination detected near Detroit's water intake facility in Ecorse.

By Nina Vasquez | February 17, 2026

Wayne County Commission Approves New Jail Site Plan After Years of Delays

Wayne County Commission approves downtown jail replacement plan after years of delays, clearing the way for a modern detention facility designed to reduce incar

By Nina Vasquez | February 10, 2026

Detroit City Council Votes to Expand Community Benefits Ordinance to More Developments

Detroit City Council votes to expand Community Benefits Ordinance, lowering thresholds for when developers must contribute to community programs and affordable

By Nina Vasquez | February 3, 2026

Detroit Water Department Proposes Rate Restructuring to Address Affordability Concerns

The Detroit Water Department proposes a tiered rate system that would lower bills for low-income households while increasing rates for high-consumption users st

By Nina Vasquez | January 28, 2026

Michigan Legislature Debates New Electric Vehicle Tax Credits for Detroit Automakers

Michigan lawmakers debate a $500 million EV tax credit program for Detroit automakers as companies race to compete in the electric vehicle market.

By Nina Vasquez | January 21, 2026

Detroit Mayor Duggan Delivers State of the City Address, Highlights Neighborhood Investment

Mayor Duggan announces $500 million Neighborhoods Forward Initiative to expand Detroit investment beyond downtown, targeting 15 communities over five years.

By Nina Vasquez | January 14, 2026

Governor Whitmer Proposes $1.2 Billion Infrastructure Package for Southeast Michigan

Governor Whitmer proposes $1.2 billion infrastructure package for Southeast Michigan, with $400 million directed to Detroit for transit, water systems, and down

By Nina Vasquez | January 7, 2026

Detroit City Council Sets 2026 Legislative Priorities Including Blight, Transit, and Affordable Housing

Detroit City Council sets 2026 priorities: eliminating blight, expanding transit, and creating affordable housing to guide the city's continued recovery and dev

By Nina Vasquez | January 2, 2026