Governor Whitmer Urges Bipartisan Budget Deal as Shutdown Looms

Governor Whitmer Calls for Urgent Budget Agreement Amid Economic Uncertainty

In a recent address, Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized the need for the Michigan Legislature to present a bipartisan budget agreement before the month concludes, highlighting the economic strain caused by ongoing tariff disputes and legislative gridlock.

“We can still do this on time,” Whitmer asserted, stressing the urgency of the situation. “The clock is ticking.”

As federal tariffs continue to create confusion, Whitmer described the current scenario as a “man-made storm of uncertainty,” exacerbated by Congress’s budget impasse. She warned that the unresolved budget issues in Lansing only add to the public’s anxiety.

“What we can do is make life a little easier for Michiganders and reduce uncertainty,” Whitmer stated. “As Michiganders watch the news, they tend to ask a simple question: What does this mean for me and my family? Failing to get this done means more uncertainty.”

With a partial government shutdown looming in two weeks due to the absence of a budget deal, thousands of state employees are bracing for potential layoff notices.

Rachel Dickinson, President of the United Auto Workers Local 6000, was present during the speech. The union, representing approximately 15,000 state employees, is concerned about upcoming layoff notifications.

“They’re very nervous right now,” Dickinson remarked. “Some people are wondering whether or not they should go out and apply for another job. I mean, these are jobs that are highly skilled. You know, if they do go out and apply for another job, that’s a huge retention and recruitment issue for us, and it’s going to cost the state even more money bringing in new hires.”

Governor Whitmer pointed out that previous budgets were delivered on time under both Democrat and divided legislative control, suggesting it is feasible to cut expenditures while safeguarding services such as universal free school meals. She is also advocating for a long-term road funding strategy and the maintenance of taxpayer-funded business incentives.

Although open to negotiation, Whitmer indicated that the Republican budget proposal passed by the House is unacceptable in its current form.

House Appropriations Committee Chair, Representative Ann Bollin (R-Brighton), emphasized prioritizing spending cuts, stating, “Look at where we can cut first, where can we save money, where can we restructure, can we be more efficient and be able to expand. That’s what we have to do.”

The Michigan Public Radio Network’s Colin Jackson contributed to this report.