Governor Whitmer Oversaw 55 Percent Budget Growth While Michigan Families Face Higher Costs And Crumbling Roads

LANSING, MI - Michigan’s state budget has grown from $57 billion to $88.1 billion under Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a 55 percent increase, while many residents say roads, schools, and everyday affordability have not improved at the same pace.

State officials are now facing an estimated $900 million to $1 billion revenue shortfall while discussions continue in Lansing over possible new taxes and revenue sources.

Questions are also being raised over how taxpayer money has been spent, including:

• $20 million connected to the Beydoun embezzlement scandal
• $1 billion through the SOAR program tied to 1,846 jobs
• $19.5 million in child care subsidies reported as unaccounted for
• $100 million directed to the University of Michigan despite its reported $21.2 billion endowment
• Utility rate increases totaling $585.6 million for DTE and $154 million for Consumers Energy

Lawmakers have also discussed potential taxes or increased fees tied to:

• Tobacco
• Online gambling
• Digital advertising
• Vaping

Critics argue that a 55 percent increase in state spending should have produced noticeably better roads, stronger schools, and improved quality of life across Michigan. Instead, many families say they are struggling with rising costs while politically connected projects and insider deals continue receiving funding.

Supporters of the administration argue some spending increases were tied to federal programs, economic development projects, and post-pandemic recovery efforts.

The debate continues over whether Michigan taxpayers are getting results that match the historic growth in state spending.

Should there be consequences for how taxpayer money is spent in Lansing?