Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, celebrated for her leadership and pragmatism, faces a pressing timeline to fulfill key campaign promises during her second and final term. As she garnered attention at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago and released a bestselling memoir, questions arise about her willingness to address unfulfilled commitments, especially now that Democrats hold significant control in the state government.
Whitmer’s pledges, made during her campaign, included promises to enhance road infrastructure, increase governmental transparency, raise the minimum wage to $15, repeal the contentious emergency manager law, and regulate water extraction for bottling companies. However, as her term progresses, advocates and allies urge her to tackle these issues before her time in office concludes.
While Whitmer has achieved notable successes, such as codifying abortion rights and repealing the right-to-work law, her supporters express disappointment that more populist initiatives have not come to fruition. The projected budget surplus and Democratic majorities in both legislative chambers create an opportunity for progress, but it remains unclear if Whitmer will seize it amidst a busy election year.
One pressing concern is Michigan’s deteriorating roads, which continue to rank poorly nationally. Whitmer initially proposed a gas tax increase rejected by the legislature, subsequently opting to fund road improvements through state bonds. Critics warn that relying on such short-term solutions could exacerbate future funding gaps.
Additionally, Whitmer’s commitment to transparency through her 2018 Sunshine Plan has not materialized as she has yet to expand the Freedom of Information Act to include her office and the Legislature, which remain exempt from public records law.
Another unaddressed promise is the repeal of the emergency manager law, criticized for undermining local governance during crises like those faced in Flint. Whitmer has indicated a willingness to work with the legislature on reforms but has not committed to specific actions.
Lastly, while advocating for a $15 minimum wage, complications arose from legislative actions that watered down initial proposals, leading to ongoing uncertainty about wage increases. A recent ruling by the Michigan Supreme Court may have re-ignited opportunities for change, but business groups have raised concerns about the impacts on the hospitality sector.
As the clock ticks on her final term, it is unclear if Whitmer will take decisive action on these issues or leave them for future leaders to contend with.