North Michigan News

State Rep. Cam Cavitt criticized House Democrats for what he perceived as blatant partisanship in the recent budget decisions affecting rural Michigan. Cavitt highlighted the rejection of proposed budget amendments that aimed to support the Michigan State Police and allocate funding to rural Northeast Michigan. The amendments, put forward by House Republicans, were turned down in party-line votes, prompting Cavitt to accuse the Democrats of prioritizing political interests over the needs of the state.

“Democrats’ time in leadership will be defined by their outright refusal to support any area of the state that did not support them in the last election,” stated Cavitt, emphasizing his concerns about the partisan dynamics at play in the budget process. He further asserted, “Democrats are weaponizing the budget process to punish the portions of the state they don’t like,” indicating a perceived bias in decision-making that favored certain areas over others based on political affiliations.

The proposed amendments that were rejected included measures aimed at enhancing school safety grants, allocating $1.5 million for Black River dredging and jetty installation, and introducing reforms for the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) rulemaking and budgetary authority. Cavitt expressed disappointment over the denial of these amendments, attributing the outcome to what he described as "massive partisan carveouts" secured by Democrat committee members.

In light of these developments, Cavitt's remarks underscore a broader concern regarding the impact of partisan politics on budget allocations and decision-making processes in Michigan. The debate surrounding the rejected amendments reflects ongoing tensions between political parties and raises questions about the prioritization of partisan interests over the welfare of the state's various regions.