In this episode: 

• How the Gordie Howe Bridge affects both Canada and the United States.
• Republicans and Democrats react to Trump’s Truth Social post about the Gordie Howe Bridge. 
• Governor Whitmer’s administration’s final budget of her tenure. 

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

As the Gordie Howe International Bridge sets to open this year, President Trump signaled he may stop the opening in a Truth Social post. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben discuss how lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are reacting to this surprising development.  

This announcement from Trump blindsided many as the bridge is set to open later this year. Former Michigan Governor Rick Snyder, who helped broker the deal for the bridge during his tenure as governor, wrote an op-ed in the Detroit News asking Trump to reconsider including a point by point demonstration as to why the President was wrong.  
Trump said the bridge is a bad deal but Synder disagreed saying American consumers will be hurt the most if the bridge remained closed.  

Later in the episode, Paul Egan, Detroit Free Press Reporter, discusses the Whitmer administration’s final budget. 

Whitmer’s 88-billion-dollar budget is an increase from the budget signed into law last year. Egan describes the economic picture leading up to this release as uncertain. “The economy is showing many signs of weakness amid tariffs… you also have the federal government, making significant cuts… on top of that, you also have, soaring health care costs, which is another major, major problem that they had to tackle and putting together this budget.” 

The budget addresses other things such as colleges and universities, a rainy day fund, and transportation. Of the new funding for 2027, 69% will support local road projects and 10% will support transit and rail programs, according to budget documents. 

• More from WDET:

  Michigan Democrats push back on Trump’s Gordie Howe Bridge threat

  MichMash: Budget battles and ballot changes in Michigan

  Whitmer opposes Trump’s tariffs and ICE actions

Subzero wind chills are expected this weekend as the National Weather Service has issued a cold weather advisory for southeast Michigan.

Even though today’s high will reach about 35 degrees, overnight lows are expected to dip well below zero with wind chill. The Weather Service says frostbite on exposed skin can happen in under 30 minutes.

The advisory is in effect until around noon Saturday.

A warmup is expected Tuesday and Wednesday, with temperatures trending above normal and highs and lows climbing out of the teens.

Additional headlines for February 6, 2026

Detroit opens shelters and respite sites

Until then, the city of Detroit is offering standby shelters and expanded library respite hours to protect residents from the deep freeze.

In partnership with Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries, the sites will operate from 6 p.m. Friday, Feb. 6, through noon Monday, Feb. 9.

If you are concerned about someone’s safety, call 911 to request a welfare check.

More information, including locations and hours, is available at detroitmi.gov.

Big Sean and Usher youth facility opens at Michigan Central

A $1 million investment in an entertainment production facility for Detroit youth from Big Sean and music artist Usher is now official. Leaders held a ribbon cutting this week for the new space.

The facility is part of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Detroit and is located on the fifth floor of Michigan Central Station.

The new hub includes creative technology studios, special effects labs and a literary and storytelling lounge. It is designed for young people ages 14 to 24.

Programming is set to begin Sunday, Feb. 9.

Sports

The Pistons lost at home Thursday to the Washington Wizards, 126 to 117.

Detroit looks to bounce back tonight against the New York Knicks at Little Caesars Arena. Tipoff is 7:30 p.m.

Sunday is Super Bowl Sunday. Even if the Lions are not playing, keep an eye out for new commercials from Detroit based organizations Rocket Companies and Redfin. Kickoff is 6:30 p.m. Eastern.

Book event: Lachi discusses I Identify as Blind

Grammy-nominated artist Lachi will speak at an event Monday, Feb. 9, from 6:30 to 7 p.m. for her new book, I Identify as Blind: A Brazen Celebration of Disability Culture, Identity, and Power.

The event includes a conversation with disability advocate Tameka Citchen Spruce.

Lachi was born legally blind and identifies as neurodivergent. The book explores her experiences, with the goal of challenging stereotypes and empowering people with disabilities.

For more information, visit Eventbrite.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode:

• How much money did the Michigan gubernatorial candidates raise for their campaigns?
• What do the campaign finance reports say about each gubernatorial candidates?
• A bipartisan approach to medical debt.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Michigan gubernatorial candidates are ramping up their campaigns, but how are they doing financially?

This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow go over the latest campaign finance reports for the upcoming election. 

These are the last reports we will see until we get closer to the primaries. Roth said the reports can be a forecast for the race ahead. “Money does not equal victory, but it does help you get there. It’s crucial for name recognition and getting your message out through things like mailers and television ads.”

The Michigan primary is on Aug. 4, 2026. 

Later in the episode, Sen. Jonathan Lindsey stopped by to champion his bipartisan legislation that addresses medical debt in Michigan. The bill would make violations of these changes eligible for action by the attorney general under the Michigan Consumer Protection Act. Lindsey said he believes the bill is close to being passed.

“I think we showed in the Senate that the most productive way to get it done was running together a couple of these health care-related bills that would bring enough votes from both sides to have a strong consensus on them.”

The bill is currently sitting in the Senate.  

• More from WDET
  Detroit Evening Report: Wayne County eliminates $27M in medical debt for 46,000 residents

  MichMash: Michigan campaign finance reform shows no progress

  How expensive are Michigan’s political campaigns?

Vitti says immigration concerns are keeping kids home

During his State of the Schools address, Detroit Public Schools Community District Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said immigration concerns are contributing to lower student attendance. While there have been no reports of immigration agents entering Detroit school buildings, some families remain afraid to send their children to school.

Attendance declines began in January 2025, around the start of the Trump administration, and have continued into this year. Last year, 61 percent of Detroit students were considered chronically absent, meaning they missed more than 10 percent of the school year. Vitti said immigration concerns played a role in those numbers.

The district recently released an informational pamphlet for families who may have concerns about immigration status, offering guidance and connections to resources.

No charges in deaths of two children in Detroit parking garage

Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy announced that no charges will be filed against a Detroit mother whose two children died last year in a parking garage.

An autopsy determined the children died from carbon monoxide poisoning rather than hypothermia. The mother, who was experiencing homelessness at the time, had sought shelter in December 2023, but records indicate a city shelter was unable to reach her.

In response to recent dangerously cold temperatures, Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield is urging residents to seek shelter if needed. The city reports approximately 1,700 shelter beds are available for families. Sheffield emphasized that no Detroiter should be without access to warmth during extreme cold.

Pro sports update

NBA: The Detroit Pistons lost to the Phoenix Suns 114–96. The team remains on the West Coast and will face the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in San Francisco tonight at 10 p.m. Eastern.

NHL: The Detroit Red Wings fell to the Washington Capitals 4–3. The Red Wings are second in the Atlantic Division and will take on the Colorado Avalanche tomorrow, Saturday, January 31, at 1 p.m. at Little Caesars Arena.

Local sports: Detroit athlete makes NIL history

Chandler Park Academy basketball player Jeremiah Jackson has become the first high school athlete in Michigan to sign a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal.

The Michigan High School Athletic Association recently expanded its rules to allow high school athletes to earn money through endorsements, social media promotions, and related opportunities. Jackson’s NIL deal is with Flamz Pizzeria, a restaurant located on East Warren Avenue in Detroit.

Events and weekend picks

Virtual event on the American Revolution
The Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit is hosting a free virtual discussion on Monday examining the American story 250 years after the American Revolution.

The event will be led by Bob Brutell, Adjunct Professor of Religious Studies and History at the University of Detroit Mercy, and Dr. Kyle Roberts, Executive Director of the Congregational Library and Archives.
“Remembering the Unfinished American Revolution” takes place Monday, February 2, at 1 p.m. Registration details are available online.

Detroit Symphony Orchestra: Epic Film Scores
The Detroit Symphony Orchestra presents a concert featuring iconic film music, conducted by Steve Reineke. The program highlights legendary composers and scores from films including Psycho, The Godfather, Gladiator, Star Trek, and Star Wars.
Performances:

• Friday, January 30 at 8 p.m.

• Saturday, January 31 at 8 p.m.

• Sunday, February 1 at 3 p.m.
  More info: dso.org

The Saunderson Brothers at Big Pink
Big Pink hosts a House and Techno night featuring The Saunderson Brothers. Organizers promise a high-energy set packed with crowd favorites.
The event runs tonight from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m.
More info: bigpinklovesyou.com

In this episode

• What has Michigan businessman Perry Johnson promised in his first two months on the campaign trail?

• How are Michigan Republican candidates positioning themselves ahead of the 2026 elections?

• Which issues do candidates need to prioritize to attract voters?

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

There are several major races later this year, with multiple candidates competing for governor, U.S. Congress, and state House and Senate seats. This week on MichMash, Cheyna Roth and Alethia Kasben speak with Kristin Combs, founder of Bright Sparks Strategies, about how Republican candidates are performing across these contests.

The gubernatorial race saw a major shakeup when Michigan businessman Perry Johnson entered the field. Combs said his candidacy is likely to change the race’s dynamics. “The more people out there spending money, building name ID, and talking about the issues we think will matter to voters, the more attention it brings to the race,” she said.

Combs also noted that a key factor in Republican races outside of presidential election years is whether Trump supporters will turn out to vote. She said national trends and local leadership both influence turnout. “People are struggling with gas prices and grocery prices,” Combs said. “So the things Republicans can do to try and keep costs under control — that’s going to help.”

Finally, Combs’ firm is working to gather signatures for a proof-of-citizenship ballot proposal. Supporters argue the measure would protect elections from non-citizen voting, while opponents say it could prevent some eligible citizens from casting ballots.

More from WDET:

• Detroit Evening Report: Water main breaks plague city
• Michigan Republicans stress party unity at Mackinac Leadership Conference
• MichMash: Recapping the Mackinac Republican Leadership Conference

Detroit City Council Member Mary Waters is proposing an ordinance that would limit the ability of law enforcement to cover their faces while they’re on the job. The proposed ordinance states that no local, state, or federal law enforcement agency would be permitted to wear masks or any other facial covering while performing their duties in the City of Detroit.

Member Waters said in a statement the she will not have a city where a masked mob can enforce the law with impunity. The ordinance would be named the “Alex Pretti Detroit No Masks” ordinance in honor of the Minnesota man who was killed by ICE agents last week. Council is expect to refer the proposal to committee in the next coming weeks.

-Reporting by Bre’Anna Tinsley

Additional headlines from Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026

Limiting road salt use and snow removal

If you noticed that there is less salt on the ground following the wintery mix we received the past few weeks, you’re not wrong. The above average snowfall is causing a lot of local governments to use more salt than they have in years.

But because the temperatures are too low for the salt to work, they are rationing salt to the most critical routes. Salt becomes less effective in temperatures below 15 degrees according to University of Michigan Climate experts. And in extreme cold temperatures some trucks switch from salt to sand because it provides more traction without relying on melting.

Some areas are alerting that the snow may not be plowed right away because removing the snow can create icy conditions and decrease the traction provided by fresh snowfall. Cities like Lansing issued a notice to residents that they will only focus on critical areas.

Weather forecast

And for those tired of the cold, warmer days are ahead after this weekend. The extreme cold is expected to last through Jan. 30 but according to the National Weather Service warmer air will move in for the weekend.

What does the warmer air mean? The temperatures across the state will rise into the low 20s. It will be 28 in Detroit and 26 in Lansing on Tuesday. It may not seem like a lot but I promise Spring is coming…eventually.

Process + Perception exhibit

And starting today til Feb. 21, the Detroit Artists Market is hosting their new viewing of the Process + Perception Exhibition. It’s a group exhibition of 2D and 3D process-driven artworks that’s created through layered materials and imagery. Organizers say the viewing will range from quiet and contemplative to intense and overwhelming.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

City of Detroit is partnering with organizations to extend stand-by shelters and respite locations due to the extreme cold coming this weekend.

The Neighborhood Service Organization will open from Friday Jan 23 at 6 p.m. to Tuesday, Jan. 27 at noon. This site can only accept single adults.

Pope Francis Center is sheltering people through Jan. 27 at noon as well. They are also only accepting single adults. And the Detroit Rescue Mission Ministries is operating through Jan. 27 at noon. They are accepting families and single adults.

Residents seeking relief from the bitter cold may also visit Detroit recreation centers and public library branches during regular operating hours.

Any individuals sleeping outside and needing help after hours can go to a police precinct to be connected with an outreach team for help with overnight services.

Additional headlines for Friday, Jan. 23, 2026

Due to the deep freeze this weekend, the Detroit Zoo and the Belle Isle Nature Center are closed today and Saturday. Animal care staff worked to ensure the animals continued to receive the care they need. The parks hope to be open on Sunday, but they will monitor the weather forecast before making that decision.

The National Weather service issued a cold weather advisory for all of southeast Michigan that lasts until Saturday morning. The agency says exposed skin could be damaged in as little as half an hour, and they say pet owners should not leave their animals outdoors.

Wayne County Juvenile Detention hosts open interviews

The Wayne County Juvenile Detention Facility is hosting open interviews for two critical roles from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 24 at the Wayne County Criminal Justice Center. They will host a hiring event for individuals interested in becoming one of their Juvenile Detention Specialists or a Crisis Response Team Specialist.

For more information go to waynecountymichigan.gov.

Sports

NBA

The Detroit Pistons are on a 4 game winning streak and hope to extend that today when they face the Houston Rockets. Tipoff for the game is at 7 p.m.

NFL

Detroit Lions offensive tackle Dan Skipper announced his retirement via Instagram on Thursday. Skipper was dealing with a lower back injury all season. He said he will pursue coaching in his future.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago is performing at the Detroit Opera House Jan. 24-25. The program will feature works from contemporary choreographers and Tony Award–winning Broadway choreographer Bob Fosse.

For more information go to detroitopera.com.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

• Gov Whitmer’s approach to recent disagreements with the Trump administration.
• Potential cellphone bans in classrooms gets bipartisan support.

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Although Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and President Donald Trump have found some areas of common ground this year, Whitmer recently outlined key disagreements at the Detroit Auto Show, including opposition to Trump’s tariff strategy and the presence of ICE in Minneapolis. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben discuss what Whitmer’s comments could signal about future relations with the Trump administration.

Whitmer called some Trump administration actions “an abuse of power,” adding, “I think it is a very serious and scary moment in this country. I appreciate those who are raising their voices. I worry about the people out there just trying to do the right thing.”

Roth said Whitmer’s remarks could hint at political ambitions after her term as governor ends. She also noted that much of Whitmer’s outreach to the Trump administration has focused on maintaining cooperation in Michigan’s best interest.

Later in the episode, Oakland Schools Superintendent Kenneth Gutman discusses proposed legislation that would ban cell phones in classrooms. Gutman supports the measure, saying it benefits students. “There are exceptions, and safety is one of them, but in general, do we need cell phones in classrooms? We do not. They are a distraction.”

If the legislation passes, Michigan would join states including Indiana, Louisiana, New York, and Ohio in banning cell phones in classrooms.

• More from WDET: The Metro: Should cellphones be restricted in Michigan schools? Whitmer on dealmaking with Trump: ‘I will fight back when I need to’

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

House Republican have moved to unilaterally cut up to $645 million from the state budget.  But is that legal?  This week on MichMash, Cheyna Roth and Zach Gorchow talk with Bob Schneider of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan to make sense of it all. Plus a look at changes in the race for governor and Secretary of State.

In this episode:

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist drops out of the race for governor and into the Secretary of State’s race

The state of the governor’s race

The battle over unilateral budget cuts

Overview

Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist has ended his campaign for governor and has launched an effort to become Michigan’s next Secretary of State instead.  Gongwer’s Zach Gorchow says Gilchrist’s decision shouldn’t come as a surprise.

“He had low name recognition and wasn’t raising anywhere near enough money. Jocelyn Benson, the secretary of state, has been the clear frontrunner for the Democratic nomination for months, and Gilchrist’s exit doesn’t change anything on the Democratic side.”

The news does have implications for the race for Secretary of State as Gilchrist joins an already crowded Democratic field.

Meanwhile, lawmakers are dealing with a provision in state law that allows a single legislative committee to cancel certain types of spending. House Republicans used this mechanism like never before – to cancel up to $645 million in spending.

Attorney General Dana Nessel has filed suit saying the legislation allowing the move is unconstitutional.

Bob Schneider of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan tells us the central issue is around the appropriation process for “work projects.”

“A work project is an authorization to carry forward appropriations into a future fiscal year.”

He says the legislature should be thinking ahead on the issue, because the process could be in jeopardy, depending on how courts rule. Schneieder says lawmaker should be saying to themselves,  “How do we get together and fix this so we have a process that works in the future.”

At the end of 2025, a commitment to getting a new economic development plan out of the Legislature was halted. In this episode MichMash, Bridge Michigan’s business reporter Paula Gardner joins Cheyna Roth and Alethia Kasben to discuss economic development incentives and if they are helping to attract Michigan businesses.

More from MichMash

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield took office on New Year’s Day. But she’s celebrating her achievement with a public swearing-in ceremony this week.

Detroit City Council members, police commissioners and the City Clerk will also take part. The ceremony at the Detroit Opera House features poetry and music performances as well.

Sheffield is the first woman ever elected mayor of Detroit. She says her team is developing an action plan for her first 100 days with input from the community. But she’s also retaining several key officials from the past mayoral administration including the corporation counsel—the city’s top lawyer—and Detroit’s fire commissioner.

Sheffield also announced today that the city will join a program that gives financial support to pregnant women and infants. The city has already raised 9 million dollars to participate in RX Kids. It’s looking for $2 million to fund the program for 3 years.

Sheffield says she hopes to secure the funding to launch the program within her first 100 days.

Additional headlines for Monday, Jan. 5, 2026

State utility regulators demand more transparency

DTE Energy, Consumers Energy, and other regulated utilities in Michigan must do more to inform customers about potential rate hikes. This is because of a new order by state utility regulators.

The Michigan Public Service Commission wants to increase customer participation in utility issues, including cases that set new rates. After March, regulated electric utilities must inform customers when they asked for higher rates, and how much their bills would go up if that amount is approved.

There’s concern that this could confuse people, since rarely do utilities get their full requested amount. But supporters of the change say advance notice will let more people find out about and comment on potential rate hikes before the cases are resolved.

Gas prices

Michigan gas prices have dropped 11 cents since last week. According to the auto group AAA, you can get regular unleaded for $2.70. This new price is 18 cents less than a month ago and 44 cents less than this time last year, making this new price the lowest since February of 2021.

The US strikes in Venezuela this weekend don’t seem to have impacted oil prices just yet, according to AAA. The organization also says Venezuela crude oil exports have been limited due to the sanctions in the last couple of years.

Sports updates

NFL

The Lions beat the Chicago Bears 19-16 yesterday with a walk off field goal kick from Jake Bates, ending the season with a winning record. Now all eyes are on the off season, the NFL draft and seeing how they will bounce back for the 2026 season.

NBA

The Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday 114-110 and remain on top of the Eastern Conference. Their next game is today at Little Caesars against the New York Knicks and again at Little Caesars on Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls.

Tip off for both is at 7:00 p.m.

NHL

The Red Wings play against the Ottawa Senators tonight at 7:30 p.m. at the Canadian Tire Centre. The Red Wings are currently third in the Atlantic Division.

Carl Thomas performs

And R&B singer Carl Thomas known for his smash 2000 hit “I Wish” will be performing at Sound Board on Sunday Jan. 11, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.

The artist from Illinois hit the Billboard Top Hot 100 and peaked at 20. And this year marks the 26th anniversary of his debut studio album “Emotional.”

To hear Thomas live, go to soundboarddetroit.com for tickets and more information.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

There were a lot of defining political moments in 2025 that made the year stand out.

This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss some major stories and look ahead to 2026.

In this episode

• MichMash hosts’ top political moments of 2025
• The state of major races heading into 2026.
• What stories should we look out for in 2026?

Overview

Pluribus News politics journalist Reid Wilson said “Michigan is the ‘we matter’ state,” on MichMash last month. Zach echoes this, pointing out how things like the senate race has made “Michigan the epicenter of politics in the midterms in 2026.”  

Zach also spoke about the dynamics of the candidates.

“We’ve got the first legit Democratic primary for U.S. Senate since 1994. Three really strong, viable candidates. But then we’ve got on the Republican side, it appears they’ve consolidated support behind Mike Rogers. And for the most part, he’s just going to be waiting to see who emerges as the Democrat.” 

Beyond elections, Zach also has his eye on the Michigan legislature. He thinks recent inertia will continue because of Speaker Matt Hall’s intention to not get involved what he described as “small things”.

And although there was an agreement after the budget was decided to focus on economic development, Alethia said those plans may be falling apart. “I think the House and Senate could come together and put together [the] top wants of both. It’s just a question of…is there the willingness to get that done, especially if this is more of a Governor Gretchen Whitmer priority and less of a legislative priority?” 

The Michigan legislature will come back to session by mid January 2026.  

More from MichMash

Over the holidays…we’re sharing some of the stories Detroit Evening Report hosts produced for the radio. Today…we hear a story from Nargis Rahman.

The state health department hoped to register 500 doulas in its doula registry by 2028. This fall, it had more than a thousand. That includes doulas across the state with various specialties and most are able to accept payment through Medicaid.

Nargis spoke to Dawn Shanafelt the Director of Maternal and Infant Health for the Department of Health and Human Services about the registry and efforts to export birthing assistance services in Michigan.

Outro: This is just part of Nargis Rahman’s interview with Dawn Shanafelt from the Department of Health and Human Services. You can her the full story at wdet.org.

The city’s 30 foot tall Kwanzaa Kinara join Detroit’s official Hannukah Menorah and Christmas tree in Campus Martius Friday, Dec. 26. This first day of Kwanzaa celebrates the principle Umoja or Unity.

If you missed the City’s Kinara lighting, there are Kwanzaa celebrations throughout the city until the holiday ends on New Year’s Day. The Redford Branch of the Detroit Public Library has festivities tomorrow, including arts & crafts and African dance and drumming.

For more information visit detroitpubliclibrary.org/events.

The Charles H Wright Museum of African American History will host Kwanzaa events through Monday. Festivities include performances, speakers, family-friendly activities, a vendor marketplace and candle lightings.

Each day’s schedule is a little different. Visit thewright.com/events/kwanzaa for more information.

Source Booksellers is hosting a virtual celebration of cooperative economics on the 29th with author Ben Passmore, who will talk about his book “Black Arms to Hold You Up: A History of Black Resistance.”

The event is at 5pm. To register look for Source Booksellers on Eventbrite.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this episode

• Senator Gary Peters shares why he is not running for reelection.
• Updates with the rank choice voting initiative

Senator Gary Peters’ announcement about not seeking reelection shocked the political world because of his favorability and success. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Services’ Zach Gorchow talk with the Senator to hear his reasons behind his decision, and they discuss his plans for the remainder of his term.  

Peters shared that he never saw himself in his position for a lifetime and that he likened how the founding fathers intended political leadership positions. “…like the founding fathers…you serve for a period of time and then you go back to private life. I have served in Congress for years. When I leave at the end of next year it will be 18 years. I think that is a good run” 

Peters also noted that politics is becoming more partisan, and it’s becoming harder to find common ground.  

Cheyna and Zach also discuss the recent news on rank choice voting. The group pushing put this new voting system in Michigan said they will retarget their efforts for 2028. Cheyna noted this may have been because they didn’t have enough signatures. You need 466,000 valid signatures from registered voters to get a constitutional amendment on the ballot.  

More from WDET:

• MichMash: Is ranked choice voting a better system for Michiganders?
• MichMash: Sen. Gary Peters’ retirement; Duggan on running for governor as an independent and more
• MichMash: Bipartisan approaches to Violent Crime Clearance Act, privacy, and more

Subscribe to MichMash on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

The Trump administration issued an executive order reclassifying marijuana as a Schedule III controlled substance. This change doesn’t legalize the drug on the federal level but could mean significant tax savings for Michigan cannabis businesses.

Cannabis businesses are currently taxed on gross income and cannot deduct operating expenses like other companies ordinarily do. Changing the classification could help smaller businesses that operate without a lot of resources.

There are concerns from leaders in the cannabis industry about federal regulations that might follow this move — including taxes. The Trump administration announced that this move was to recognize legitimate medical use and expand medical marijuana and cannabis research for the medical community.

Additional headlines for Dec. 19, 2025

Food vouchers expire Dec. 31

Shoppers have until Wednesday, Dec. 31 to use their Double Up Food Bonus Bucks vouchers. The statewide program expanded during the government shutdown when SNAP benefit recipients were under threat and families didn’t know if they would lose their ability to purchase food.

Run through the Fair Food Network, the program matches SNAP benefits used to buy up to $40 in fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables at partnering farmer markets and grocery stores. It has been operating for more than a decade and is continuing into 2026. Frozen foods will be added to the list of eligible foods as well as unlimited earning and spending options.

If you have questions about the program, call the hotline at 866-586-2796 or visit doubleupfoodbucks.org.

Detroit sports updates

NFL: The Detroit Lions face the Pittsburgh Steelers in a Sunday night match up. Lions fans probably have a Detroit win on their Christmas list because they currently have a 25% chance of making it to the playoffs, according to ESPN reports. If they win the last three games of the season including the game against the Steelers, their chances rise to 95%. Kickoff is at 4:25 p.m. at Ford Field.

NBA: The Pistons fell to the Dallas Mavericks yesterday in a tight overtime matchup. The loss doesn’t change up too much because they are still number one in the eastern conference with a 21-6 record. The next game is tomorrow, Dec. 20 against the Charlotte Hornets at Little Caesars Arena. Tip off is at 7:30 p.m.

NHL: The Red Wings, currently on top of the Atlantic Division, go against the Washington Capitals tomorrow at the Captial One Arena. The game starts at 12:30 p.m.

Detroit Sandwich Week

Detroit Sandwich Week is going down right after Christmas. Sandwiched in between Christmas and the New Year, this annual event celebrates different local sandwich shops each day to support community and small businesses.

This year’s featured shops are Mudgie’s, Vesper and Ayiti Spaghetti, Ladder 4 Wine Bar, Roccos, Tall Trees Cade and Batch Brewing Company. For more information, visit detroitsandwichparty.square.site.

Perfume popup

Artisan perfumer and “scent docent” Terees Western will host a popup at Source Booksellers on Saturday for her business FragranTed. Visitors will have a chance to create their own holiday scents and learn about using scent to celebrate and make memories. The event runs from 2–4 p.m. at 4240 Cass Avenue.

Listen to the latest episode of the “Detroit Evening Report” on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, NPR.org or wherever you get your podcasts.

Congresswoman Haley Stevens is vying for the U.S. Senate seat in Michigan in a highly contested field. In this episode of MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben sit down with the representative to see what makes her different from her opponents. 

In this episode:

• What sets Haley Stevens apart from the other candidates for Michigan’s U.S. Senate seat?
• What issues are currently affecting Michigan residents?

Correction: Congresswoman Haley Stevens is endorsed by the Mayor of Highland Park, not Hamtramck.

Overview

Stevens is often compared to other established Democrats like U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell or even Governor Gretchen Whitmer. These comparisons are sometimes used to present Stevens as out of touch with the new generation of politics. Stevens says the focus should be more on meeting the needs of Michigan residents.

“I was Michigan’s first millennial to the United States House of Representatives. I’m not an ageist. I think the goal is representing all of Michigan and getting results for Michiganders.” 

She also stated that leaders like Gov. Whitmer’s popularity alongside her own ability to get things done should be embodied.  

Stevens also addressed the comparison with her fellow Democrat opponent Mallory McMorrow, and how they seemingly appeal to the same voters.

“I think poll after poll shows I’m the only Democrat who can beat (Republican opponent) Mike Rogers,”she said. “We need a dogged advocate for Michigan. And I think some of the unique attributes that I bring to this race for the United States Senate is that I am Michigan’s workhorse.” 

The election for the open Michigan U.S. Senate seat is scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.  

More from MichMash