Michigan Politics 2026: Profiling Budget Battles and Critical Races with Detroit News Politics Editor Chad Livengood (02-15-26)

On this edition of West Michigan Weekend, host Phil Tower talks with Chad Livengood, politics editor and columnist at The Detroit News, about the escalating battle over Michigan’s state budget after House Republicans moved to claw back $645 million in previously approved funding.
Democrats have called the move unconstitutional, Attorney General Dana Nessell has weighed in, and a lawsuit is before the Michigan Court of Claims.

The conversation also turns to the high-stakes 2026 election cycle: every major statewide office is open due to term limits, all legislative seats are on the ballot, a U.S. Senate seat is up for grabs, and potential constitutional questions could reshape state government. Chad shares insight on the crowded governor’s race, the impact of President Trump on Michigan politics, and the growing controversy surrounding federal oversight of the 2026 elections.

Online- Chad Livengood, politics editor and columnist at The Detroit News