East Michigan News

LANSING, Mich. - Sen. Roger Hauck, R-Mt. Pleasant, responded to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's 2024 State of the State address with a critical statement. Hauck expressed his concerns about the governor's portrayal of the state's condition and highlighted the challenges faced by Michigan residents and businesses.

In his statement, Hauck stated, "The rosy outlook the governor portrayed is a far cry from what many Michigan residents and businesses are feeling. Costs are up, wages are stagnant, and as the radical policies pushed by her administration and legislative leadership last term begin to take place, I'm afraid our state will continue in the current direction."

Hauck criticized the approach taken by the Democratic leadership, particularly regarding infrastructure, energy, and education. He argued that instead of making substantial investments in infrastructure, the focus was on "throwing pennies at road repairs" while diverting public tax dollars to partisan projects. Similarly, Hauck criticized the decision to prioritize wind and solar technology over expanding the electrical grid, which he claimed had "failed to deliver time and time again." He also expressed concerns that education efforts were diluted, with a focus on trivial matters such as whether school buses are electric or not.

Furthermore, Hauck criticized what he referred to as "grandstanding and 'feel good' initiatives" combined with a "tax-and-spend philosophy" that he believed had not yielded desirable results in the past. He argued that burdening Michiganders with higher taxes would not drive the state to the top of any lists.

Hauck concluded his statement by calling for a shift away from partisan governing and a focus on tackling tough issues that would shape a better future for the state. He expressed hope that the State of the State address would mark a new beginning and urged for policies that promote growth, hold government accountable, and prioritize the needs of Michigan families and businesses.

In response to Hauck's statement, Governor Whitmer's office did not issue an immediate comment.

The 2024 State of the State address by Governor Gretchen Whitmer received criticism from Senator Hauck, who questioned the governor's optimistic portrayal of the state's condition. Hauck highlighted concerns over rising costs, stagnant wages, and what he perceived as failed policies in infrastructure, energy, and education. He called for a shift away from partisan politics and the implementation of policies that prioritize the needs of Michigan residents and businesses.