It's Just Politics

An inside look at the proposals aiming for Michigan’s November ballot - from property taxes and school funding to voter ID and minimum wage - and where the campaigns stand now.

This November is shaping up to be one of Michigan’s most consequential elections in decades. Join Michigan Public's Political Director Zoe Clark, Senior Capitol Correspondent Rick Pluta, and their panelists for our FIRST Issues & Ale: It's Just Politics of the year.

Michigan bans smartphones in classrooms starting next school year - what the new bipartisan law does and doesn’t do. Plus, Perry Johnson on entering the GOP primary for governor, Trump, and his pitch to voters.

Michigan’s U.S. Senate race draws national attention as Democrats face a competitive primary and a key state Senate race in the 35th District could have big consequences in Lansing.

A look at USA Today’s acquisition of the Detroit News and why Michigan’s open 35th Senate District special election on Tuesday matters.

Michigan Republican Speaker of the House Matt Hall discusses his 2026 policy priorities, independent gubernatorial candidate Mike Duggan and support for a Constitutional Convention.

Politics in Michigan just got more interesting as Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist changes statewide races. Plus a conversation with the Michigan Senate Majority Leader on what can actually get done this year in Lansing with divided government.

Michigan politics is heading into a high-stakes 2026, with open statewide races, a tight budget, and a rare vote on whether to rewrite the state constitution. Here’s why this year could fundamentally change the political landscape.

Co-hosts Zoe Clark and Rick Pluta have covered Lansing all year. From fake electors to the state budget saga, they've talked about it all. Let's look at some of the highlights.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, Speaker of the House Matt Hall, and Attorney General Dana Nessel all made news in 2025. A look back at the year in Michigan politics… and what’s in store in the new year.