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Survey finds top Northern Michigan issues differ from governor’s priorities, raising concerns about government spending, infrastructure, education, and Second Amendment rights.
Northern Michigan Residents Voice Concerns Over State Issues
A recent survey conducted across Northern Michigan’s 36th Senate District reveals that residents’ primary concerns—government spending, infrastructure, education, and Second Amendment rights—are not reflected in Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s legislative agenda. State Sen. Michele Hoitenga, who spearheaded the survey, criticized the governor’s priorities as disconnected from northern Michigan issues.
The survey, which included residents from 16 counties, paints a picture of a region frustrated by tax hikes, decaying infrastructure, and a government they feel is out of touch. Hoitenga, a Republican from Manton, said she found the results unsurprising.
1. Spending Rises, But Roads Still Crumble
Michigan’s state budget has surged to $82.5 billion, yet many residents in Northern Michigan say they see little improvement in essential infrastructure. According to the survey, residents overwhelmingly listed road conditions and infrastructure as a top concern. Despite years of promises and increased spending, roads remain in poor condition across the state.
Hoitenga pointed out the disconnect between spending and outcomes. “We’re paying more than ever, but our roads are still deteriorating. Where is the money going?” she said. The senator also criticized Whitmer’s proposed mileage-based tax, which would charge drivers for every mile driven, further burdening rural residents who rely on long commutes for work and essential services.
2. Residents Struggling as Cost of Living Soars
Nearly 75% of surveyed residents reported that they are struggling to afford everyday necessities such as groceries and gas. Despite this, the governor has proposed new taxes, which Hoitenga says will only worsen the financial strain on families.
“Instead of providing relief, we’re seeing higher taxes and bigger government spending. The people of Northern Michigan cannot afford to keep paying more while receiving less,” Hoitenga stated.
3. Education Concerns Mount as Performance Declines
Education remains a critical issue among Northern Michigan voters. Many residents expressed frustration over falling student performance and declining educational standards. Hoitenga criticized the state’s approach, arguing that funds should be directed toward classrooms rather than administrative costs.
“We need to empower teachers and parents, not bureaucrats,” Hoitenga emphasized. “Parents want a say in what their children are learning, and they want schools that focus on academic excellence, not political agendas.”
4. Gun Rights Under Threat?
The Second Amendment also ranked as a top concern, with many respondents expressing fears that their constitutional rights are under attack. The Whitmer administration has backed stricter gun control measures, a stance that has faced resistance in rural and conservative-leaning regions.
Hoitenga vowed to push back against legislation that she believes infringes on the rights of law-abiding gun owners. “We will not allow the erosion of our constitutional freedoms,” she said.
5. Cutting Taxes—The Top Priority for Northern Michigan
Looking ahead, the survey found that cutting taxes was the number one issue residents want addressed in the next legislative session. Hoitenga pledged to work on meaningful tax relief to ease financial burdens.
“There’s no excuse for not cutting taxes. People know how to spend their own money better than the government does,” she said.
A Growing Divide Between Lansing and Northern Michigan
As the divide between rural and urban Michigan widens, Hoitenga warns that Lansing politicians must do more to listen to the concerns of Northern Michigan residents. While the governor continues to push for policies that many in her district view as harmful, Hoitenga says she will focus on advocating for local interests.
“I will continue to listen, fight for lower taxes, and push for policies that actually help the hardworking families of Northern Michigan,” Hoitenga concluded.
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