Our POLITICS + POLICY category provides users with an extensive list of articles dealing with past, present, and future issues relating to politics and policy throughout the UP.
Recently Published
Going to war, it happened before
War rarely begins with a single event. Barry Kaye’s latest article examines how the Gulf of Tonkin incident helped draw the United States into Vietnam, the role of political decision-making, and the lessons history still offers today. A thought-provoking look at how nations drift into conflict—and why understanding the past matters.
Fewer Hands, More Pressure: Local Government Challenges in the U.P.
Communities in the U.P. rely on residents stepping up, but new survey data shows local governments are struggling to find people willing to run for office or serve on boards. In small towns, participation isn’t optional–it’s what keeps communities running.
Major Richard Star Act
U.S. Army veteran Jim Hay argues that combat-wounded veterans shouldn’t be penalized for their sacrifice, and that it’s time to fix this.
Marquette Area Public Schools: A Case for Modernization
Marquette Area Public Schools is proposing a $60 million bond to address urgent building repairs, improve safety, and modernize learning spaces across all district schools. Eric Smith argues that this plan focuses on cost-effective renovations—not replacements—to enhance student learning environments, ensure accessibility, and invest in the region’s future workforce.
What it Means to Be a Citizen of the United States of America (Part 3 of 3)
Barry Kaye concludes his analysis of what it means to be an American citizen in Part Three of this series.




