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
Discussion with Marquette Mayor Jenna Smith and City Commissioner Cody Mayer
In the latest episode of the Rural Insights Podcast, David Haynes talks to Marquette Mayor Jenna Smith and City Commissioner Cody Mayer to discuss the challenges currently faced by rural cities like Marquette, and what their thoughts are on where the future is headed for rural cities in the Upper Peninsula.
A Tale of Two Counties: Houghton Sees Younger Population, Stronger Economy Than Marquette
Houghton and Marquette Counties are two major economic and population centers in the Upper Peninsula. Michael and John Broadway take a look at how the two have compared in recent years, and why proactive initiatives by Michigan Tech University and the MTEC Smartzone have contributed to Houghton County having a younger population and arguably stronger economy than that of Marquette.
Interview with Don Wotruba, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of School Boards
In the latest episode of the Rural Insights Podcast, David sits down with Don Wotruba, UP native and Executive Director of the Michigan Association of School Boards, one of Lansing’s biggest educational associations and one of the most powerful in the state.
Interview with U.P. State Representative Sara Cambensy
In the latest episode of the Rural Insights Podcast, David Haynes talks with Sara Cambensy, State Representative for Michigan’s 109th District. Rep. Cambensy talks about some issues affecting the U.P. that the legislature will be working on in the current legislative session, and how rural areas like the U.P. can achieve greater influence in Lansing.
Interview with MDARD Director and Former U.P. Legislator Gary McDowell
In the latest episode of the Rural Insights Podcast, David Haynes sat down with Gary McDowell, current director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development. Gary also served three, two-year terms in the Michigan House of Representatives. He grew up in Rudyard, MI, where he still resides, and is a farmer by trade.
