Michigan’s lawmakers are beginning to issue public statements following President Donald Trump’s acknowledgment that the United States is risking American lives in military action involving Iran.

So far, U.S. Sen. Gary Peters and U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib have shared their reactions. Additional responses are expected.

Sen. Gary Peters: “Our Constitution requires this check for a reason”

In a Facebook post, Sen. Gary Peters said the president is “risking American lives by dragging us into another ‘war’ in the Middle East, without Congress’ approval.”

Peters wrote that the Constitution requires congressional authorization “for a reason” and said the American people “don’t want to send their sons and daughters to another unjustified forever war across the world.”

Rep. Rashida Tlaib: “The American people do not want a war with Iran”

In a statement released from Detroit, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib said, “The American people do not want a war with Iran.”

Tlaib criticized what she called the Trump administration’s “illegal war of aggression on Iran,” saying it has “already killed dozens of children” and risks igniting “a catastrophic regional war.”

She said Congress “must stop the bloodshed by immediately reconvening to exert its war powers.”

Tlaib also said Iran is “a bad actor” and that the United States must ensure the country never produces nuclear weapons. She referenced a prior diplomatic agreement on nuclear proliferation, saying President Trump withdrew from it during his first term “without a plan for what comes next.”

Tlaib called on the administration to immediately brief Congress on the strikes, including its next steps, end goal and strategy, to ensure the action “protects, not weakens, our homeland security.”

In this episode

• Governor Gretchen Whitmer delivers her final State of the State of her tenure. 
• Why did Gov Whitmer thank President Trump?
• What is the “GSD Tour”

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her final State of the State address, reflecting on her tenure and outlining priorities for the remainder of her term. This week on MichMash, WDET’s Cheyna Roth and Gongwer News Service’s Alethia Kasben discuss what stood out.

Roth said one of the most notable aspects of the speech was that there were few surprises. She described it as a reflection of Whitmer’s time as governor. One moment that did stand out was Whitmer thanking President Trump for his support of a new fighter mission slated for Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township. Kasben said she believes the acknowledgment was intentional.

“I think she is trying to keep the pressure on about it,” Kasben said. “The more that she publicly talks about it and notes President Trump promised this, the more it’s out there that this commitment was made and hopefully makes sure it does happen.”

Less than 24 hours after the address, Whitmer joined MichMash to discuss key elements of her speech, her experience as governor and her plans for the remainder of her term. That includes launching her GSD Tour, which stands for “Get Stuff Done.” She said the effort is focused on making sure residents understand what has been accomplished during her administration.

“Michigan is full of hardworking, good people who have a lot going on in their lives and maybe have not heard about all the things that we’ve accomplished or what is available,” Whitmer said. “I think telling the story of what’s out there, what we’ve accomplished and listening to Michiganders is what the GSD is all about.”

During the interview, Whitmer also reiterated her goal of having state leaders pass the budget by June 30.

In a rambling post on Truth Social this week, President Trump threatened the Gordie Howe International Bridge — saying he won’t allow the bridge over the Detroit River to open until Canada compensates the U.S. for all it has given them. His exact demands are unclear.

The bridge has been expected to open sometime early this year. It’s meant to support a trade network that sees around $150 billion USD worth of goods cross between Detroit and Windsor annually.

Listen: Politicians react to Gordie Howe Bridge threats

In a statement, the Michigan Democratic Party called out the president, saying blocking the span from opening would amount to economic sabotage.

State Rep. Helena Scott represents the state’s 8th house district — including northwest Detroit, Ferndale and Pleasant Ridge. She argues the US isn’t owed anything for the new bridge.

“Michigan did not fund the construction,” says Scott, “Canada did. Canada financed nearly all of the projects after the US declined to put federal dollars into it. There is nothing owed back to the US.”

Trump’s criticism of the bridge comes despite issuing a joint statement in 2017 with then-Canadian Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, endorsing the Gordie Howe project. Construction of the span began during Trump’s first term in office in 2018.

Democratic Congresswoman Debbie Dingell is shocked the president is now criticizing a project he once celebrated, in a state that voted for him.

“President Trump won Michigan,” says Dingell, “so why is he now turning around and screwing the workers who voted for him?”

Dingell says the owner of the Ambassador Bridge, the Moroun family, met with Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick before Trump’s threat. The Moroun’s fought to stop construction of the new bridge for years.

In a statement to WDET, the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority says the new span remains on track to open in early 2026. They say the Gordie Howe International Bridge benefits both countries, by encouraging investment, helping to maintain and create thousands of jobs, and generating new business and tourism opportunities.

Mike Latulippe wraps up The Detroit Move; introducing The Shake Out; the future of This Island Earth

After two incredible years of bringing energy, soul, and deep Detroit flavor to the WDET airwaves, Mike Latulippe will be wrapping up his run as host of The Detroit Move.

This was not an easy decision for Mike, but he felt it was the right time to shift his focus from radio to new priorities in his life and career.

“It’s been an unbelievable two-year run hosting The Detroit Move… it’s been a lifelong dream come true to host a music show on WDET, and the show became more than I ever expected,” said Latulippe. “I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity and so thankful not only to the WDET team for their support, but to all the listeners who tuned in each week with adventurous ears. Without their support none of this would be possible. I’m very proud of what I was able to accomplish and will never forget this incredible experience and being part of the WDET family.”

Since launching in 2024, The Detroit Move quickly became a listener favorite, known for its adventurous playlists, celebration of Detroit’s musical legacy, and Mike’s thoughtful, personal approach to storytelling through sound.

“We’re truly sad to see such a popular and impactful program sunset,” said Adam Fox, WDET Program Director. “Mike brought passion, creativity, and serious commitment to The Detroit Move, and we’re thankful for everything he’s contributed to WDET. We wish him nothing but the best in what comes next.”

The final episode of The Detroit Move will air Tuesday, February 17 at 8 p.m.

Introducing The Shake Out with Dave Lawson

WDET is also excited to announce what’s coming next on Tuesday evenings from 8–9 p.m. Beginning February 24, Detroit Public Radio will welcome The Shake Out, hosted by Detroit musician and vinyl collector Dave Lawson.

The Shake Out continues the station’s tradition of deep-cut discovery, digging into rare gems, overlooked classics, and unexpected connections across genres — guided by Dave’s encyclopedic knowledge and love of records.

“I’m honored and excited to be joining the WDET family,” said Lawson. “This station has meant so much to me as a listener and as a Detroit musician, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to share music I love with such a curious and engaged community.”

An update on This Island Earth

As the community continues to mourn the passing of Ismael Ahmed, WDET would like to share an update regarding the future of This Island Earth and the programming it inspired.

Ismael created This Island Earth to connect people through the shared experience of music — highlighting the common ground that links traditions from all over the world. The program became a meaningful space for discovery, grounded in accessibility, inclusivity, and a deep respect for global cultures.

Those values remain central to WDET’s mission and will continue to shape how the station approaches music programming. In Ismael’s final days, conversations took place about the future of the show and the importance of carrying forward its spirit. 

In the near term, WDET will re-air select episodes of This Island Earth with the blessing of Ismael’s family.