MichMash Politics
259 episodes - English - Latest episode: 1 day ago - ★★★★★ - 3 ratingsUnjumble Michigan politics with MichMash. Each week, Cheyna Roth, Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben interview lawmakers and politicos, and unpack the statewide issues that affect you. MichMash is produced by WDET Detroit Public Radio in collaboration with Gongwer News Service. Part of the NPR Network.
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Episodes
Michigan Senate is working on changes to the state's liquor laws
July 12, 2024 09:00 - 27 minutes - 50.5 MBA law that just passed the Michigan Senate would set penalties and potentially revoke liquor licenses for retailers defaulting in electronic payments to wholesalers. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow are joined by president of the Michigan Beer and Wine Wholesalers Association Spencer Nevins. They discuss the state's alcohol laws that will have the most impact on the alcohol industry.
Michigan Supreme Court facing major decisions before end of term
July 05, 2024 09:00 - 24 minutes - 45.6 MBThe Michigan Supreme Court’s term ends on July 31, but what are the cases that will have the greatest impacts? On the latest episode of "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow are joined by Gongwer News Service’s Ben Solis to discuss how the court’s rulings may impact the Legislature.
Michigan lawmakers pull an all-nighter to pass budget bill
June 28, 2024 10:00 - 19 minutes - 26.4 MBAfter a 19-hour session, Michigan lawmakers approved an $83 billion budget that provides a new approach to funding K-12 public education. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben are joined by Monique Stanton from the Michigan League for Public Policy to discuss what elements were included in the budget — and what was left out.
How will lawmakers respond to recent mass shootings in Michigan?
June 21, 2024 10:00 - 21 minutes - 39.9 MBDespite the gun laws passed after the MSU shooting, three mass shootings in Southeast Michigan put in the question the effectiveness of the legislation. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow sit down with Bridge Michigan Captiol Reporter, Jordyn Hermani to discuss the possible response from Michigan lawmakers.
Education funding and a proposal to tax short term rentals
June 14, 2024 10:00 - 28 minutes - 38.9 MBTeachers and educators are opposed to lawmakers' recent state funding plan. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben discuss the impacts this could have on the Democrats in November. They are also joined by Rep John Fitzgerald and they discuss a proposal to tax short term rentals.
Michigan false electors case drags on; state of small business in Michigan
June 07, 2024 10:00 - 26 minutes - 36.6 MBThe preliminary examinations ended this week for the six Michigan individuals charged with submitting fake electoral votes for the 2020 presidential election. Ingham County District Court Judge Kristen Simmons must now determine whether there is enough evidence to send them to trial. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow discuss the possible outcomes for the case. Also, Former Lt. Gov. of Michigan Brian Calley joins the conversation to discuss the economic state of...
MichMash Extra: Interview with Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist at the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference
May 31, 2024 13:10 - 12 minutes - 16.6 MBLieutenant Governor of Michigan, Garlin Gilchrist, spoke about the presidential election and how Michigan factors in. As part of the MichMash Extra, MichMash host Cheyna Roth asks Gilchrist if there is enthusiasm among Michiganders about the the presidential candidates.
MichMash Extra: Interview with House Speaker Joe Tate at the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference
May 31, 2024 13:05 - 14 minutes - 20.5 MBMichigan House Speaker Joe Tate says the one of the priorities is to create economic stability in Michigan and lower costs for Michiganders. As part of the MichMash extra, MichMash host Cheyna Roth asks Speaker Tate about the rest of the Democrat's priorities heading into the Summer.
MichMash Extra: Interview with Attorney General Dana Nessel at the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference
May 31, 2024 13:00 - 13 minutes - 18.9 MBAttorney General Dana Nessel has championed protecting people from online scams and protecting personal data. As part of the MichMash extra, MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, asks Nessel about the pushback she receives on the bills that would hold people accountable for scams.
Mackinac Policy Conference 2024: Whitmer's housing and energy initiatives
May 31, 2024 10:00 - 23 minutes - 31.9 MBGovernor Gretchen Whitmer announced that there will be housing and energy savings coming to Michigan during the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference. Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben asks MichMash host Cheyna Roth about what is going to happen about her coverage of the Governor's announcement. Cheyna also interviews Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate, Attorney General Dana Nessel, and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist. And we are joined by Gongwer News Reporter Elena Durnbaugh for a Mackinac ...
Is the Michigan Democratic Party doing enough to attract Black voters?
May 24, 2024 10:00 - 25 minutes - 47.6 MBAs a major battleground state, presidential candidates President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump have been making visits to the Mitten State to drum up support. "MichMash" host, Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben sit down with Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley to see if the Michigan Democratic Party is doing all that they can to excite voters.
The 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference preview
May 17, 2024 10:00 - 31 minutes - 57.9 MBThe 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference is only a few weeks away, and we here at "MichMash" will be increasing our coverage by making a trip to the island for the event. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow sit down with Brad Williams, vice president of government relations for the Detroit Regional Chamber, to hear what we can expect this year. Gongwer News Service co-host Alethia Kasben also joins the conversation for a "MichMash" roundtable.
Setting the budget for the 2025 fiscal year
May 10, 2024 10:00 - 20 minutes - 38.5 MBThe Michigan House and Senate are creating their versions of the budget for the 2025 fiscal year. MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, and Gongwer News Service's, Alethia Kasben, sit down with Rep. Mike McFall to discuss what items he would like to see on the agenda.
Will Robert F. Kennedy Jr. spoil President Biden's or former President Trump's votes?
May 03, 2024 11:00 - 23 minutes - 32.5 MBThird party candidates notoriously draw votes away from either Republicans or Democrats, but which voters will Robert F. Kennedy Jr. be drawing from? MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, and Gongwer News Service's, Zach Gorchow, sit down with the Detroit Free Press's state politics and government editor, Emily Lawlor to unpack the impact the third party candidacy will have.
Campaign filing deadline has passed, campaign season officially shifts gears
April 26, 2024 05:02 - 36 minutes - 67.3 MBAs Tuesday’s campaign filing deadline has passed, 110 seats in the Michigan House of Representatives on the ballot are up for grabs as Democrats and Republicans try to get control of the house next election. MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, and Gongwer News Service's, Alethia Kasben sit down with Rep. Bill Schuette (R) and Rep. Regina Weiss (D) to discuss their respective parties' chances this election season.
Will Chatfield embezzlement charges push legislature to act on financial disclosures?
April 19, 2024 09:04 - 30 minutes - 56.5 MBFormer Michigan House Speaker Lee Chatfield is charged with 13 embezzlement, conspiracy and larceny counts, as the state looks at financial transparency for our lawmakers and state leaders. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow sit down with State Sen. Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) to see what the legislature plans to do to provide transparency of financial elements.
Michigan's bipartisan support for nuclear power
April 12, 2024 14:36 - 29 minutes - 55.1 MBNuclear energy is often a contentious topic due to fear of radioactive waste and endangering human health. However, many laud nuclear power as a clean, zero-emission alternative to fossil fuels. The federal government recently announced a $1.5 billion investment to reopen Michigan's Palisades Nuclear Power Plant. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Services' Alethia Kasben sit down with Rep. Graham Filler (R-DeWitt) to discuss the reopening and Michigan's relationship with nuclear en...
No fault auto insurance bill sees no near solution
April 05, 2024 12:02 - 32 minutes - 59.8 MBThe no fault auto insurance has been tangled up in legislative logistics since the Michigan Supreme Court upheld the Michigan Court of Appeals' decision to overturn the 2019 auto no-fault bill. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Services' Zach Gorchow sit down with Detroit News' Chad Livengood to unpack the current status of the bill and to share stories from crash victims.
Will Michigan offer free tuition to community college students?
March 29, 2024 14:21 - 29 minutes - 54.3 MBGov. Whitmer has mentioned in her state of the state address the desire to give Michigan high schoolers the opportunity to have two free years at a community college. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben sit down with President of the Michigan Community College Association, Brandy Johnson, to discuss the potential of this bill passing with the growing bipartisan support.
Michigan Senate passes significant action for economic development
March 22, 2024 11:00 - 33 minutes - 45.8 MBThe Michigan Senate is looking to build the state's economy through tax incentives. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow sit down with Chief Executive and Economic Competitiveness Officer from the MEDC, Quentin Messer, to discuss the state of economic development in Michigan.
State Sen. Jeremy Moss seeking more transparency in Michigan government
March 15, 2024 11:40 - 26 minutes - 49.5 MBTransparency in Michigan government is in the spotlight this week during Sunshine Week, a nationwide event celebrating open government and access to public information. In this week’s episode of MichMash, host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben sat down with Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield) to talk about Michigan legislators' latest attempt at passing government transparency legislation in the state.
MSU trustees face removal over misconduct allegations
March 08, 2024 13:48 - 25 minutes - 46.2 MBTwo members of the MSU Board of Trustees have been accused of misconduct following an independent investigation. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Services' Zach Gorchow are joined by Gongwer reporter, Elena Durnbaugh to discuss the details of the allegations.
Political pundits Adrian Hemond, John Sellek go in-depth on Michigan's 'uncommitted' vote
March 01, 2024 11:20 - 25 minutes - 47.6 MBThe Michigan primaries came and went and the results were predictable — save for the "uncommitted" campaign claiming 13% of the Democratic vote. WDET's Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben sit down with Adrian Hemond, a Democrat, and John Sellek, a Republican, from the organization Baldly Bipartisan, to discuss whether the "uncommitted" vote will impact the election.
Oakland County Chair Vance Patrick on why he supports Hoekstra over Karamo for Michigan GOP chair
February 23, 2024 10:00 - 21 minutes - 29.9 MBThe drama in the Michigan GOP continues as the party plans two separate conventions for the Republican presidential nominee. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Zach Gorchow sit down with Oakland County Republican Party Chair Vance Patrick to discuss the internal power struggle and why he supports Pete Hoekstra as the Michigan GOP chair.
Sen. Sarah Anthony on new gun laws being 'big steps in the right direction'
February 16, 2024 13:09 - 25 minutes - 34.4 MBThis week makes it one year since the the tragic shooting at Michigan State University. How have lawmakers responded? "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service's Alethia Kasben sit down with Sen. Sarah Anthony to talk about some of the new legislation to prevent gun violence.
Whitmer's proposed budget and the state's potential legislative maps
February 09, 2024 12:54 - 24 minutes - 45.5 MBThe Michigan Independent Redistricting Commission is taking public comment after releasing multiple proposed draft maps for seven metro Detroit Michigan House seats. And Gov. Whitmer proposed a new budget for the state's next fiscal year. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer's Zach Gorchow are joined by Gongwer's Ben Solis to unpack the proposed budget and potential redrawn maps.
Sen. Nesbitt on trying to find 'common ground' with Michigan Democrats
February 02, 2024 09:45 - 27 minutes - 49.7 MBSenate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt reacts to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's State of the State address. "MichMash" host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer's Alethia Kasban sit down with Sen. Nesbitt to discuss Michigan Republicans' options for bipartisanship.
Whitmer shares key points from her 2024 State of the State address
January 26, 2024 10:00 - 16 minutes - 30.1 MBGovernor Gretchen Whitmer touted the accomplishments of 2023 and her agenda for 2024 in her State of the State address this week. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer's Zach Gorchow sit down with Governor Whitmer to ask her about items on her agenda such as paid family leave.
Secretary Benson on presidential primaries, election security
January 19, 2024 15:09 - 24 minutes - 33.1 MBThe 2024 election season is underway with the presidential primary coming earlier than in previous election cycles. MichMash host Cheyna Roth and Gongwer's Alethia Kasben sit down with Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson to discuss how early voting is part of an effort to boost voter confidence.
Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate on redistricting, 2024 agenda
January 12, 2024 11:22 - 30 minutes - 41.5 MB2024 marks the new venture with WDET and Gongwer News Service, combining forces to create a new and improved MichMash. This week, MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, and Gongwer co-hosts Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben, sit down with Michigan House Speaker Joe Tate to discuss redistricting and the legislative agenda for 2024.
New year, new MichMash!
January 09, 2024 11:00 - 12 minutes - 16.9 MBCheyna Roth welcomes Gongwer's Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben to MichMash as they join her as co-hosts of the podcast. MichMash is produced by WDET in collaboration with Gongwer News Service.
Karamo Deniers
January 05, 2024 22:21 - 19 minutes - 26.7 MBKristina Karamo faces backlash and calls for her to step down as Michigan GOP chair from her own party. Capitol Reporter from Bridge Michigan, Jonathan Oosting, sits down with MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, to unpack the in-party disagreements in the Michigan GOP.
Michigan Politics in 2023
December 30, 2023 01:12 - 13 minutes - 18 MB2023 has had some major political news stories. The Detroit News City Hall reporter, Sarah Rahal, sits down with MichMash host, Cheyna Roth, to let us know which stories stood out this year and what we should look forward to in 2024.
Michigan's Path to a Prosperous Future
December 22, 2023 19:02 - 17 minutes - 24.3 MBWhat are the keys to Michigan's success? Eric Lupher, president and secretary of the The Citizens Research Council of Michigan, sits down with Cheyna Roth to discuss the major issues that affect the state's future.
Governor Whitmer unveils new tax rebate for electric vehicles
December 15, 2023 22:25 - 13 minutes - 18.2 MBGovernor Whitmer announced her plans for a new tax rebate for the purchase of electric vehicles. Automotive News' Jake Neher sits down with Cheyna Roth to dig into the details of these EV rebates.
Loophole in healthcare safety bill leaves workers worried
December 08, 2023 19:38 - 14 minutes - 20.3 MBGovernor Whitmer signed a bill to increase fines for people who assault healthcare workers, but some of the workers say it doesn't go far enough. Bridge Michigan's Robin Erb joins Cheyna to explain what is missing from the bipartisan bill.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer Sign Bills to Reach Ambitious Clean Energy Goals by 2040
December 02, 2023 00:42 - 14 minutes - 20.1 MBGovernor Gretchen Whitmer signed some climate bills this week that will make Michigan utility companies to get all of their energy from clean energy by the year 2040. Bridge Michigan's breaking news reporter Janelle James sits down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to detail how this new legislation will unfold.
Michigan Legislature approves use of AI gun protection software at state capitol
November 24, 2023 21:22 - 12 minutes - 17.2 MBThe Michigan legislature is adding AI technology to the state capitol to prevent any potential threeats inside the capitol building. The Detroit News' Beth LeBlanc sits down with Cheyna Roth to discuss the implications of the new technology.
Rep. Dan Kildee joins list of departing Democrats in Congress
November 17, 2023 23:03 - 13 minutes - 19.2 MBAfter serving six terms, Dan Kildee announces that he won’t seek reelection to Congress. Political reporter from Up North Live, Rachel Louise Just, sits down with Cheyna Roth to discuss what this means for the future of his seat and they unpack the Michigan legislature early adjournment.
Michigan State House temporarily loses majority after Tuesday's Elections
November 10, 2023 20:42 - 16 minutes - 22.6 MBTuesday's elections were relatively low key, but they still point to some trends that will impact our state next year in the presidential election. Executive editor and publisher for Gongwer News Service, Zach Gorchow, explains the key takeaways to Cheyna Roth.
Flint Water Criminal Prosecutions Ends with No Charges and Frustrated Residents
November 03, 2023 17:38 - 16 minutes - 22 MBAfter seven years of criminal prosecutions in relation to the Flint water crisis, Dana Nessel's office comes up with no charges. The Detroit News Beth LeBlanc sits down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to unpack why the prosecution came up empty handed.
The Institutional Desecration Act would Increase Penalties for Prejudice Related Crime
October 27, 2023 17:37 - 15 minutes - 20.7 MBVandalism against places of worship, schools, and other cultural institutions would receive more penalties under The Intuitional Desecration Act. Michigan Public Radio Network reporter, Colin Jackson, sits down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to discuss what this bill package would entail.
Michigan Lawmakers Want to Regulate AI
October 20, 2023 18:47 - 14 minutes - 19.9 MBMichigan House is looking to regulate artificial intelligence ahead of the 2024 elections. Representative Penelope Tsernoglou joins guest host Jake Neher from the Automotive News to break down this bipartisan sponsored bill package.
UAW's Unconventional, Yet Effective Strategy
October 13, 2023 17:32 - 25 minutes - 35.5 MBThe UAW strike is nearing a month in and Shawn Fain's strategy has been different than in strikes past. Wayne State Professor of Management and labor expert Marick Masters joins guest host Jake Neher from the Automotive News to break down the UAW's successful strategy.
Permit Delayed for Enbridge Energy's Tunnel to Replace Line 5
October 06, 2023 19:11 - 22 minutes - 30.4 MBEnbridge Energy is frustrated as the permit for the Great Lakes Tunnel Project to replace Line 5 is being delayed until 2026 for environmental review. Alyssa McMurtry from Gongwer sits down with Cheyna Roth to discuss the concerns with the aging Line 5 pipeline
Democratic Rep. Whitsett is Facing Backlash Over Anti-Abortion Stance
September 29, 2023 19:45 - 17 minutes - 24.2 MBDemocratic Representative Karen Whitsett is opposed to her party's attempt to strip abortion restrictions from state law. Bridge Michigan's Lauren Gibbons sits down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to breakdown Whitsett's opposition.
Analyzing the UAW's Strike Strategy And Its Chances of Success
September 22, 2023 17:41 - 13 minutes - 18.6 MBThe summer of strikes ends with UAW joining the fray. UAW members have been on strike for about a week and there is no immediate end in sight. Automotive News' Michael Martinez sits down with Cheyna Roth to breakdown how the strike's been going and the possible endgame.
MSU Officials Accused of Mishandling Mel Tucker Sexual Harassment Scandal
September 15, 2023 20:13 - 12 minutes - 17.4 MBMichigan State University's football head coach Mel Tucker has been accused of sexual misconduct with a prominent rape survivor and activist, Brenda Tracy. Bridge Michigan's education reporter Isabel Lohman sits down with MichMash host Cheyna Roth to discuss if the university handled this harassment case properly.
State Rep. Angela Witwer's Ties to PR Firm Under Scrutiny
September 08, 2023 20:58 - 22 minutes - 30.6 MBState Rep Angela Witwer and her close ties with Edge Partnerships are under a microscope due to the potential conflict of interests. The Detroit News' Craig Mauger sits down with Cheyna Roth to reveal the lingering questions involving the powerful state lawmaker's financial disclosures.
The Detroit Free Press Conducts Background Check on Michigan Lawmakers
September 02, 2023 00:29 - 15 minutes - 21.6 MBGeorge Santos' revelations that brought his credentials into question inspired The Detroit Free Press's education reporter Lily Altavena to enlist a few other reporters to check the credentials of Michigan's lawmakers. One of those reporters is Emily Lawlor and she sits down with Cheyna Roth to break down what they discovered amongst all 148 state lawmakers.