“Our great partner, Governor Whitmer isn’t the only one fixing the roads around here,” said Mayor Sheffield yesterday, where she and the Department of Public Works gave an update to their road improvement program.

This $58 million initiative includes 140 individual major road and residential paving and construction projects, as well as bridge removals and streetscape construction.

The mayor said the project will not only fix the infrastructure of Detroit but it will build up the community’s workforce. “We are also putting Detroiters to work while we invest in our neighborhoods… 90% of the individuals that are doing this work are Detroit residents and 100% are unionized. Let’s give that a round of applause.”

Funding for the road projects will come from federal and state transportation funds. This project will begin along West Grand Boulevard.

Additional headlines for Thursday, June 25, 2026

New affordable housing complex for seniors

Earlier this week city leaders joined together for the ribbon cutting of new senior housing in Grandmont Rosedale. The new development Minock Park Place is a mixed use development bringing commercial space as well as affordable housing for seniors.  The development includes 36 one bedroom apartments and six two bedroom apartments for low to moderate income seniors.

Mike Randall, executive director of the Grandmont Rosedale Development Corporation, says completion of this project brings value to the neighborhood and community.  “In the face of doubt, skepticism, a global pandemic, 3 presidential terms, skyrocketing inflation and costs, yet here we stand. Not for the recognition and not to boast but to demonstrate that value exists on our corridor not just on grand river not just on 6 mile…and not just on schoolcraft but throughout all the great city of Detroit.”

Residents are expected to begin moving in in July with commercial spots opening in the first quarter of next year.  

Sports

MLB

The Tigers lost to the NY Yankees with the score of 4-2. Their next 3 game series is against the Houston Astros starting tonight at Comerica Park. First pitch is a 6:40pm.

Club soccer

Detroit City FC face Birmingham Legion FC on July 2 at Protective Stadium in Alabama 

FIFA 
And the FIFA group stage continues as TEAM USA faces Türkiye. The U.S. has a 51% chance of winning according to sports analysts. Tonight’s game at the Los Angeles stadium in Inglewood California starts at 10 p.m. EST. 

Murder mystery walking tour

And if you are looking for something spooky to get into this weekend, look no further than The Rosary Requiem—Detroit Murder Mystery Walking Tour.

The tour starts at Most Holy Redeemer Church – the church where the film “The Rosary Murders” was filmed. Organizers say the walking tour is blends mystery and intrigue, with the vibrant spice of Detroit’s Mexicantown – that means food!

For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com.

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

• The current status of the Michigan US Democratic Senate race.
• Will the budget get done by the July 1st deadline?

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

Over the past month, Michigan’s U.S. Senate race has emerged as one of the most competitive contests in the country. This week on WDET’s MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben break down the major developments that have shaped the race.

Dr. Abdul El-Sayed and U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens appear to have pulled ahead of state Sen. Mallory McMorrow. Fellow state Sen. Sam Singh said he still hopes McMorrow can gain ground before the primary election.

“What we are seeing right now is significant investment by outside groups [supporting Dr. El-Sayed and Rep. Stevens]. My understanding is that McMorrow has some independent expenditures that are happening. Now that people are spending real money, I think you’ll begin to see a clear path.”

The Michigan primaries is on August 4th 2026.

• More from WDET:
  Dr. Abdul El-Sayed on reaching voters and prioritizing issues near home
  Haley Stevens weighs in on energy costs, tariffs and Michigan jobs
  State Sen. Mallory McMorrow says she’s working to win over undecided voters, find path back to bipartisan cooperation

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

In this episode

• How do we currently nominate secretary of state and attorney general?
• Reactions to this new proposal

Johnson says that having voters choose secretary of state and attorney general nominees allows for better representation for both the Democratic and Republican parties, as opposed to party conventions which are dominated by “insiders and special interests.”

“Anytime you have more people involved, you get a better reflection of society,” said Johnson. “It’s time to move forward and present this choice to the people of Michigan.”

The other two states that don’t use voters to nominate these roles are South Dakota and Indiana.

Johnson said roles that he and his group may focus on next includes Michigan Supreme Court seats and university trustees.

More from WDET

• Current and Former Secretaries of State Talk Transparency To Kick Off Sunshine Week
• MichMash: Attorney General Dana Nessel talks ICE detention center lawsuit, data centers and more
• MichMash: Secretary Benson on presidential primaries, election security

The Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority abruptly canceled festivities planned for the Gordie Howe Bridge ribbon cutting tomorrow.

Windsor Detroit Bridge officials said that the US and Canada have agreed to push back the opening of the span in order to take, “the necessary time to resolve outstanding issues”. The statement did not say what those issues are.

President Trump has planned to block the opening of the Gordie Howe Bridge saying that he wants the bridge crossing to be a better deal for the US. Bridge officials haven’t clarified whether the construction of the span is complete.  

Additional headlines for Thursday, June 11, 2026

Charity car show

Local nonprofit Healing Choices is hosting a charity event on Sunday June 14 to support domestic violence survivors. It’s the Healing Choices Charity Car Show at Metro Beach featuring classic cars, hotrods, muscle cars and more.

The Detroit Police Department will be at the event to showcase some of their vehicles. And The organization will also provide resources to survivors.  

The event will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is $10 per ticket and can be purchased at the park entrance.  

Sports updates

FIFA 
Detroit City FC AND the El Paso Locomotive FC tied yesterday 1-1. Before the game the rain was non stop at the Keyworth Stadium but they were still able to have their match. Their next game is Saturday June 13 at 7 p.m. 

Also the Fifa World Cup starts today with co-host Mexico playing the opener in Mexico City against South Africa.

The United States plays their first game against Paraguay tomorrow at 9 p.m. EST at the Los Angeles stadium in Inglewood. 

MLB 
The Tigers lost against the Minnesota Twins yesterday 6-4. We’ll have the results of today’s tie breaker game of this three game series on tomorrow’s DER. 
 
NBA  
Last night, NBA history was made. The New Knicks had the largest finals comeback in history after erasing a 29 point deficit yesterday against the San Antonio Spurs.

Final score was 107-106.  

Henry Ford exhibits to recognize 250 years of the US

And last but not least, to celebrate America’s 250^th year the Henry Ford Museum is showcasing 250 acres of special programming, new exhibitions, exciting events and more to highlight the history of American innovation. 
 
Some of the exhibits will be: 

• Handmade: The Crafting of America  -This exhibit explores how fabrics helped shape American history.
• Freedom Plane National Tour: Documents That Forged a Nation – This exhibit looks at the important key documents of this nation. The Henry Ford is one of eight institutions across the U.S. where nine original founding-era documents and it will be on display.
• Artemis Adventure with LEGO® Bricks – This exhibit looks at American space exploration to the wonder of legos.  

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

The United Auto Workers has endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor and Abdul El-Sayed for U.S. Senate in Michigan’s 2026 elections.

In a statement, the UAW said it supports El-Sayed because it wants “a fighter” in Washington, D.C. During an interview with ABC News Live this week, El-Sayed discussed the importance of unions like the UAW.

“The best way to protect people’s wages is to allow them to form unions. I want to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act and the PRO Act to make sure you have the voting rights and that you can form a union anywhere and in any sector in American life.”
The UAW also said the 2026 gubernatorial race is critical and that Benson has demonstrated she would stand with working-class Michiganders.

The endorsements come after former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan entered the governor’s race as an independent candidate and following last week’s Mackinac Policy Conference, where El-Sayed and fellow Democratic Senate candidates Mallory McMorrow and Haley Stevens participated in a debate.

Additional headlines for June 5, 2026

Dearborn opens third PEACE Park in Southend

Dearborn has opened its third PEACE Park in the city’s Southend neighborhood.

PEACE stands for Park Equity and Access for Civic Engagement. The parks are part of the PEACE Project, a nearly $30 million grant-funded effort to invest in the city’s green infrastructure.

PEACE Park South includes a community basketball court, two pickleball courts, a garden walk and other amenities. During a town hall meeting in April, Mayor Abdullah Hammoud discussed additional efforts to expand green space throughout the city.

“Every year, we choose six to nine schools where we’re planting rain gardens and trees in various schools.”

The new park is now open for residents to enjoy.

Tigers host Mariners in weekend series

The Detroit Tigers host the Seattle Mariners this weekend for a three-game series at Comerica Park.

Detroit enters the series looking to gain ground in the American League Central amid trade speculation ahead of the deadline.
First pitch for Friday’s game is scheduled for 6:40 p.m.

Detroit City FC takes on Lexington SC in USL Jägermeister Cup

Detroit City FC will face Lexington SC in Group D action of the USL Jägermeister Cup on Saturday.
Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Keyworth Stadium in Hamtramck.

Michigan State researcher helps prepare World Cup playing surfaces

Michigan State University professor Trey Rogers is helping prepare playing surfaces for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Rogers helped pioneer indoor natural grass systems for the 1994 World Cup. For next year’s tournament, he and his team are developing methods to ensure the safe transportation and installation of turf at host stadiums.

According to Bridge Michigan, Michigan State and the University of Tennessee are also supplying turfgrass through a FIFA-funded project.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 and concludes July 19.

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

• What is in the Money Out of Politics group’s proposal?
• What are the reactions from the supporters and opponents of the bill?

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

A ballot measure that would prohibit political spending by Michigan’s regulated utilities and large state contractors could appear on the November ballot. As part of WDET’s weekly series, MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss what’s included in the proposal and how supporters and opponents are responding.

The co-chairs of Michiganders for Money Out of Politics, Sean McBrearty and Christy McGillivray, stop by to discuss the proposal.

Opponents of the proposal say it infringes on their right to free speech. McBrearty disagrees.

“They’ll still get to play a role in the political process. The utility executives will be welcome to go out and canvass for any lawmakers they support,” he said.

McGillivray added, “They won’t be able to use money to shut the door on everyone else who wants to have a conversation with their elected officials.”

The group is confident it will gather the 356,000 valid voter signatures needed to qualify for the November ballot.

Producer’s Note:

MichMash reached out to Consumers Energy and DTE Energy, as well as Protect MI Free Speech, the committee opposing the ballot proposal, to share their perspectives. However, we were unable to schedule interviews with them. We will continue to cover this issue and hope to have them on the show in a future episode.

More from WDET:

• DTE Energy is building the region’s largest battery energy storage center at old Trenton coal plant
• A Republican outlook on Michigan’s 2026 elections
• The Metro: Can a new coalition remove big money from Michigan politics?

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer turned heads this week when she said she will not run for president in 2028.

Speaking with Fox 2’s Roop Raj at the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Mackinac Policy Conference, Whitmer said she plans to take time off after her tenure as governor ends.

“I’m looking forward to taking a break…there is time until 2028. There will be a robust group running for president. I will not be one of them.”

Later in the day, during a conversation with Tricia A. Keith, president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Whitmer clarified her remarks.

“I never knew I would run for governor. I should know better. Never say never.”

Whitmer said she does not want to be distracted by speculation about future political plans and remains focused on governing through the end of her term in November.

Additional headlines for May 29, 2026

Whitmer signs $152 million Selfridge funding bill

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed legislation on Mackinac Island earmarking $152 million in state funding for improvements at Selfridge Air National Guard Base.

The funding is intended to prepare the base for new F-15EX fighter aircraft announced by President Donald Trump in 2025.

Whitmer said the investment was made possible through bipartisan cooperation.

“We secured the KC-46 tanker mission thanks to President Biden…last year we secured the F-15EX fighter mission thanks to President Trump. Together these missions will lock in Selfridge’s future.”

The governor said the base supports 5,000 families through jobs and emphasized the economic impact of the investment.

Detroit sports roundup

Tigers open series against White Sox

The Detroit Tigers begin a three-game series against the Chicago White Sox this weekend.

The Tigers remain near the bottom of the American League Central standings and are looking to gain ground with a strong showing in Chicago.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:40 p.m. ET Friday at Guaranteed Rate Field.

Detroit City FC faces Charleston Battery

Detroit City FC travels to South Carolina this weekend for a USL Championship Eastern Conference matchup against the Charleston Battery.

The clubs last met March 28, when Detroit earned a 1-0 victory at Keyworth Stadium behind a strong defensive performance.

Saturday’s match will be played at Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

Detroit to host transportation technology conference

Detroit will host transportation leaders from across the country during the Intelligent Transportation Society of America Conference and Expo, taking place June 9-12 at Huntington Place.

Organizers expect more than 3,000 public- and private-sector transportation professionals and 170 exhibitors to attend the annual event.

The conference will feature more than 100 sessions focused on real-world deployment of intelligent transportation systems, including artificial intelligence, automated vehicles and connected mobility solutions.

More information is available at ITSAmericaEvents.com.

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:

• Why did Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz leave to go to Clemson?
• What was the general theme of this year’s policy conference?
• Who gave standout speeches during the conference?

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

The Mackinac Policy Conference had a couple of surprising moments from lawmakers, leaders, and political candidates. This week on WDET’s MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben give a glimpse of some of the news happening on the island. Gongwer reporter Liz Nass joins the conversation from the conference to share her coverage of the annual meeting. 

Unlike other years, the conference was focused more on where Michigan ranked in comparison to the rest of the nation. “It’s very stat heavy. Everybody is really focused on numbers, specifically Michigan’s rankings. There isn’t specific legislation being spoken about, but more so about competition with the rest of the country,” said Nass. 

The conference had its fair share of news-breaking moments. One of the biggest was Michigan State University President Kevin Guskiewicz leaving his position to become the 16th president of Clemson University. Nass said his departure points to a larger story.

“It follows what the MSU Board of Trustees have been dealing with for a while. A while ago, they had a special emergency meeting discussing [possibly] changing the code of ethics because of rogue trustees writing op-eds, which they expressed created a bad environment for our president.”

There is a conversation about changing how these positions are nominated. 

• More from WDET:

  2026 Mackinac Policy Conference

  ‘No!’ Whitmer shoots down presidential run, looks back at career at Mackinac Policy Conference

  Mackinac Policy Conference: Sen. Peters comments on Iran, state Rep. Puri on budgeting and DTE announces battery storage for data centers

According to AAA Michigan, about 1.3 million state residents will hit the roads this weekend. The auto group says this is the second highest state number on record for the holiday weekend. This follows a national trend, with estimates setting up a new national record, topping last year’s numbers by 1%.   

To avoid peak travel times, AAA suggests travelling between 9 p.m. on Thursday and 11 a.m. on Friday. Those traveling on Sunday will have little to no traffic, but those traveling on Monday will get the worst of it between noon and 5 p.m.    

Memorial Day Weekend travel is costing more across the country this year on average due to rising gas prices. The increase is connected to the War in Iran and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz. This year, gas prices average $4.74 per gallon in Michigan. Last year the average was $3.13.    

Additional headlines from Friday, May 22, 2026

Local Catholic churches face restructuring

Local Catholic church members are bracing for change as the Archdiocese of Detroit begins a restructuring process.

According to a report from the Detroit News, about 22 churches could potentially no longer hold weekend masses in the foreseeable future. These changes could be connected to finances and dwindling church attendance.    

Listening sessions across the archdiocese are expected to take place this spring and early summer to consider plans.    

Sports  

MLB  

The Tigers are facing a 6-game losing streak as face the Baltimore Orioles this weekend. Detroit is at the bottom of the American League Central and hopes to turn things with a three-game series against the Orioles. 

First pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:15 p.m. at Oriole Park in Baltimore.   

Soccer  

Detroit City FC is facing Loudoun United FC  tomorrow at 6:00 p.m. Detroit has won their last two games and hopes to get their third victory tomorrow. The faceoff will take place at Segra Field in Leesburg, Virginia.   
   
Final Four ticket lottery

The Final Four is coming to Detroit and here is your chance to get some tickets. There is a lottery system you can enter for an application fee of $25. Fans who apply will be charged up front for the number of tickets they are requesting. You can only get up to 4 tickets. The available tickets are in the upper bowl at Ford Field and cost about $400 each.   

The deadline to enter the lottery is Sunday, May 31. Winners will be notified in the Fall.    

NBA   

And I know the NBA season is over, but there is news heading into the 2026-2027 season.    

The Pistons announced that they’ve reached a new television rights agreement with Scripps Sports. This move brings Pistons basketball to over‑the‑air television for fans throughout Michigan. The Pistons and Scripps Sports plan to collaborate on a direct-to-consumer streaming application in the future.   

Movement music festival

It’s Memorial Day Weekend so there is Movement in Detroit. The longest-running electronic dance music event in the world return for its 20th year.

From Saturday to Monday, you have access to witness more than 115 artists perform on a variety of stages.  Many performances and set pieces have been curated in order to celebrate the twenty years of existence. Three day VIP passes are sold out but single day, VIP  and general admission passes are still available.  

For more details go to movementfestival.com.

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

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

With less than six months until the midterm elections, independent candidate Mike Duggan has dropped out of the race.

This week on WDET’s MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss the factors that led the former Detroit mayor to make his decision and the reactions from both Democrats and Republicans.

Even though Duggan faced an uphill battle running as an independent, the general consensus was that if anyone could win in that position, it would be him. Kasben said the current political climate did not allow for that possibility.

Later in the episode, we discuss earmarks, a way to secure funding for local government projects. Following a decision from the Michigan Court of Claims, what lawmakers consider an earmark could change. Gorchow and Kasben also discuss how the evolution of this type of funding led to current criticisms. Patrick Wright, vice president for legal affairs at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, joins the conversation to help explain the decision.

Wright said the Mackinac Center felt it was the right time to file the lawsuit that led to the Court of Claims decision.

“We thought the grant process was being abused because the voting threshold wasn’t being met,” Wright said. “We looked at the constitutional history and we tried to put a stop to it.”

The Mackinac Center’s challenge focused on two specific grants: one for a minor league baseball stadium in Lansing and another for a baseball stadium in Utica.

• More from WDET:

  MichMash: What are earmarks? A breakdown of the 2026 state budget

  Detroit Evening Report: Mike Duggan drops out of Michigan governor’s race

  MichMash: Why the MEA is withholding its endorsement; Inside Michigan elections

A creative new learning space is coming to Detroit’s District 5. The name of the space is Kraftologie and it is a place for inclusive, hands-on crafting.

Owner Trice Clark is able to bring her vision to life because of a $100,000 grant from the Comerica Hatch Detroit contest by Tech Town. Hatch Detroit is an organization that supports small businesses and encourages residents to vote on what businesses they want in their neighborhood. Clark beat out three other finalists in the May 13 Hatch-Off that followed weeks of public voting and live pitches from the four finalists. More than 30,000 votes were cast in this year’s competition. 

This contest has been going on for more than 15 years and past winners included dining restaurant Baobab Fare, Sister Pie and Batch Brewing Company. For more information go to hatchdetroit.com. 

Additional headlines for Friday, May 15, 2026

Senior housing community ready for residents

The former Lewis College of Business campus was reborn into a senior housing community. The long vacant landmark located on Detroit’s northwest side is now the Dr. Violet T Lewis Village, named after the American businesswoman and educator who founded the school in 1928. This affordable senior housing has 105 units and is for residents 55 and older.  

The project is a mix of historic preservation with new build and will help supply a housing market that’s experiencing a shortage. The village is fully income-restricted, serving households at roughly 30% to 80% of area median income, or about $20,000 to $70,000 per year. Developers say the project is designed to help longtime Detroit residents age in place and expands affordable housing for seniors. 

Sports

MLB

The Detroit Tigers fell to the New York Mets again with the score 4-9. It doesn’t help that the Mets are the last place team in the National League East.  

The Tigers now look to bounce back this weekend against the Toronto Blue Jays with a three game affair at Comerica Park. First pitch for today’s game is at 6:45 p.m.

NBA

And the Pistons face elimination in Game 6 of their series against the Cleveland Caviliers. The hometown heroes will potentially have to face Donovan Mitchell and James Harden without sharpshooter guard Duncan Robinson due to lower back soreness. 

Game 6 in Rocket Arena will be one to watch. Tip-off is at 7:00 p.m.

Soccer

Detroit City FC face off against Forward Madision FC as part of the USL Cup. The game starts tomorrow at 6 p.m.

NFL

Detroit Lions defensive end Myles Adams is showing up to the Salvation Army’s upcoming sports pop-up event at the Rochester Hills thrift store.

The one-day-only pop-up will showcase hand-selected sports inventory like jerseys, athletic apparel and Detroit fan gear all at thrift store prices. 

Adams spent the majority of the 2025 season on the team’s practice squad and was resigned this offseason because of the positive impression he left on Head coach Dan Campbell’s practice squad.  

‘Martin’ tour

And the Distinctively Detroit Tour is bringing you 90s sitcom nostalgia with Wazzup, Detroit! If you are a fan of the show Martin and the show’s Detroit’s ties, this is for you!

The tour will start at the William V. Banks Broadcast Museum where the star character Martin stepped into the world of broadcasting. The museum is the former WGPR building. Then the tour will go to Martin’s former apartment at the Garden Court Apartments. For more information go to distinctivelydetroit.com. This is all going down tomorrow May 16 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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 many years has the Michigan Education Association supported a Democratic candidate for governor?
• Does the Michigan Bureau of Elections check every signature?

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

The Democratic gubernatorial race hit some turbulence this week after a key endorser, the Michigan Education Association, did not decide who it will support. This week on WDET’s MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss why the association has withheld its endorsement for now.

The MEA normally backs Democratic candidates. Despite Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson leading in the polls, its hesitation may show that Sheriff Chris Swanson and independent candidate and former Mayor Mike Duggan might have gained some ground. The MEA’s endorsement could shift momentum in favor of whoever it backs.

“Going back to 1982, the MEA has always supported the Democratic candidate for governor. A Duggan endorsement would be a monumental embarrassment for Benson or Swanson if that were to occur,” said Gorchow.

The MEA is the state’s largest employee union, with more than 140,000 teachers and support staff as members, so its endorsement would have a large impact.

Later in the episode, Jonathan Brater, director of the Michigan Bureau of Elections, explained how the government office works in conjunction with the secretary of state, how signatures are approved and more.

There is a different system for reviewing signatures depending on the office a candidate is running for and the number of signatures required. The process is thorough to guarantee the authenticity of signatures.

“My position is a little bit unusual in that it is listed in the state’s statute. It does expressly require that it’s a civil service position as opposed to a political appointee position, so there is a level of separation and protection there,” said Brater.

Brater said there is concern about misinformation surrounding the election process, and he emphasized that voters should get their election information from their local election officials.

More from WDET:

• The Metro: Trust in elections is declining. A Michigan Republican clerk blames politics
• Detroit Evening Report: Shri Thanedar questions validity of campaign signatures submitted by Adam Hollier
• Governor candidates present school funding plans at education forum

The Detroit population grew for a third straight year. A city that has been losing residents for decades is making a come back. In 2025 the Motor City gained about 5,000 new residents according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In 2024 Detroit had nearly 7,000 new residents.

The total population in 2025 is about 649,095. Grand Rapids was the only other city to add more than one thousand people. 

The Census shows that Detroit also grew at a faster pace than other major cities that had 250,000 residents or more.  

Additional headlines for Thursday, May 14, 2026

 GLWA raises rates for water, sewage

In July of 2026, Detroiters will be paying higher water and sewer bills. The Great Lakes Water Authority voted to increase water rates by 5.8% and sewer rates by 4.26% earlier this year. This mimics an increase they did in 2025. 

This increase worsens the affordability gap, where some residents can’t afford the high costs. There are pushes for a statewide water affordability plan from different coalitions backed by the People’s Water Board Coalition. This plan would connect water bills to the household income in the hopes of creating a stable and equitable revenue source.  

Sports 

NBA 
The Detroit Pistons face elimination on the road tomorrow after suffering a tough loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers yesterday in Game 5 of their series. Last night’s game went into the overtime and the Pistons struggled to overcome some late runs that ended with the game score 117—113. 

The Pistons will have to win tomorrow’s game to bring it back to Detroit for a win or go home Game 7.  
 
Tomorrow’s game will be at the Rocket Arena. Tip off is at 7:00 p.m. 

MLB 
The Detroit Tigers face loss against the Mets yesterday in the score 2-3.  
The is the second straight loss to the Mets keeping the home team at the bottom of the American League Central Division. 

‘Sons of Detroit’ documentary screening

Detroit Arts Institute is showing a screening of Son of Detroit. It is a film about the Motor City told through the lens of one unique family. Director Jeremy Xido returns to Detroit after 20 years to reconnect with the Black family who raised him as he confronts societal and racial struggles.
 
The screening is on Sunday, May 17 at the Detroit Institute of Art. For more information go to dia.org.  

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

An important state senate race for Michigan’s 35th Senate District was decided Tuesday, and it could have huge implications for the November midterm elections. This week on WDET’s weekly series, MichMash, Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discuss what how the race was decided. They are joined by Alvin “AJ” Jones from WCMU Public Radio to break it all down.

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

In this episode

• What were the campaign strategies for Democrat Chedrick Greene and Republican Jason Tunney?
• Why did it take so long to call this special election?
• What could this race signal for the 2026 midterm elections?

Jones also pointed to the focus on the race being a reason why Greene won this special election. “The two candidates had very different strategies. Tunny’s campaign really hammered in local issues—talking about reading levels and tax cuts. Greene’s focused on national issues of affordability.” 

Both Greene and Tunney will face off again in the 2026 November midterm elections. 

More from WDET

• MichMash: The 2026-27 fiscal year budget process is outpacing last year
• The Metro: Trust in elections is declining. A Michigan Republican clerk blames politics
• 4 living ex-Michigan governors make case for civility in politics

The city of Detroit celebrated 10 years of Project Clean Slate with the program’s 20,000th expunged conviction.

Project Clean Slate is a program that removes barriers that limit the economic, social, physical and mental well-being of residents with criminal records. There are multiple benefits that come from expungement. Studies from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce show that companies that give second chances to returning citizens see reduced employee turnover and an overall higher quality of work.

During a press conference this week celebrating the decade-long program, Mayor Mary Sheffield announced her administration will offer a new opportunity for justice-impacted individuals.

“We just recently opened a new Office of Community and Neighborhood Safety. A part of that work will be working with justice-impacted residents through our new Office of Returning Citizens. When we invest in people and when we choose compassion, we don’t just change the lives of individuals, but the entire community,” Sheffield said.

Project Clean Slate currently has 4,000 open and eligible convictions in process and/or ready to be expunged.

Additional headlines for Thursday, April 30, 2026

Michigan gas prices continue climbing across the state

Michigan gas prices are going up again, with some areas seeing prices around $5 a gallon.

The average cost in the state is about $4.58, up about 33 cents from the day before and 71 cents higher than last week. A year ago, the average price was $3.23.

These surges are connected to the U.S.-Israel war with Iran and disruptions involving the Strait of Hormuz, halting multiple shipments of oil.

Some experts say prices should stabilize after today.

Detroit teams face pivotal weekend across basketball, baseball and soccer

Pistons force Game 6

The Detroit Pistons avoided elimination Wednesday night, beating the Orlando Magic 116-109.

Now the hometown heroes travel to Orlando for a must-win Game 6 if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive.

The showdown is set for Friday, May 1. Tipoff is at 7 p.m.

Tigers look to climb AL Central standings

The Detroit Tigers face off against the Texas Rangers this weekend.

As the second-place team in the American League Central, they could find themselves in the top spot in the division with a successful weekend.

All three games will be played at Comerica Park.

Detroit City FC returns to Keyworth

Detroit City FC faces Louisville City FC at Keyworth Stadium.

The match is set for May 2 at 6 p.m.

Detroit Vinylfest returns for second year

The second annual Detroit Vinylfest returns this weekend, featuring records, CDs, tapes and more.

The event, presented by the Detroit Bookfest team, will feature more than 70 vendors selling vinyl records, cassette tapes and other music collectibles.

Vendors will also offer music-related posters, T-shirts and other memorabilia for collectors and music fans.

Some musicians will host autograph signings, and DJs will be spinning vinyl throughout the event.

For more information, visit detroitbookfest.com.

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

• Recap of the 2026 Democratic Endorsement Convention
• What stood out about the filing deadline?

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

According to the team, there were few surprises during this year’s filing deadline. One development that stood out to Oosting was Republican James Hooper entering the race against U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

“James Hooper announced that no one filed, so he was going to give it a go,” Oosting said. “It’s good for a candidate to have at least one challenger. Rashida Tlaib is a lock for reelection, but what if something happens?”

The 13th congressional district in Detroit probably had the biggest news with Detroit City Councilwoman Mary Waters jumping into the race to challenge Shri Tanadar. Oosting said Waters jumping in may take votes away from state Rep. Donavan McKinney who was already running. “For [McKinney] to be successful you need a small primary field. Mary Waters getting into the race complicates things”. 

The party primary elections will be held on August 4th. 

• More from WDET:
  MichMash: Michigan Democrats hold 2026 state endorsement convention
  
  MichMash: Will the Michigan Senate race forecast other critical races across the nation?
  
  Detroit Evening Report: Shri Thanedar questions validity of campaign signatures submitted by Adam Hollier

Rep. Haley Stevens continued her call for articles of impeachment against Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in a house committee meeting on Friday.

During a contentious set of questions, Stevens says that the secretary abused his office and gutted America’s health.

She said she did it for Michigan. “I had a moment to push for accountability for Michiganders whose healthcare and safety is on the line with conspiracy theories running rampant. I wanted to push today for the transparency and accountability Michiganders deserve. That’s who I take my cues from.”

After Stevens’ questioning, U.S. Rep. Bob Onder of Missouri accused Stevens—who is currently running for U.S. senate—of using the moment to get a viral clip.

With a Republican led house, it is unlikely that the articles of impeachment will go further or get a vote.

Additional headlines for Friday, April 17, 2026

Michigan Senate takes up bill to slow utility rate hikes

A state Senate committee took up a bill to stop utility rates from going up more than once every three years.

Right now, energy companies can ask the Michigan Public Service Commission for higher rates every 12 months—a source of public frustration when approvals of rate increase requests are soon followed by requests for even higher rates.

Commission char Dan Scripps says a three year system could help address that. He adds that tying increases to performance would also improve the system. “The details are important and I think there are a number of places where multi-year rate plans provide for continued investment. If you add in performance-based mechanisms, you can, I think, realize some shared savings.”

The commission doesn’t have to approve the full amount, but if it does act within 10 months, the increase becomes automatic.

Sports

NBA

The playoffs start this weekend and No. 1 seed Pistons will play Sunday, April 19 against whoever wins the Charlotte Hornets and Orlando Magic game tonight at 7:30 p.m.

MLB

The Detroit Tigers have a three game affair against the Red Sox at Fenway Park. The first pitch for tonight’s game is at 7:15 p.m. The Tigers are currently third in the American League Central.

Soccer

Detroit City FC face off against the Pittsburg Riverhounds SC on April 18 at Highmark Stadium. Game starts at 7 p.m.

Speakeasy fundraiser

This weekend, check out The Speakeasy at the Guardian Building. On Saturday, April 18 at 7 p.m. the Detroit Historical Society will host a fundraiser to support their efforts to share the rich history of the Motor City.

Tickets will cover live music by the Rhythm Society Orchestra, Charleston and East Coast Swing lessons, open bar, Detroit Distillery tastings, complimentary valet and more. Go to detroithistorical.org for more information.

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

• Recap of the 2026 Michigan Republican State Endorsement Convention
• Who is running for Secretary of State and Attorney General for the Michigan Democratic Party?

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

The Michigan Democratic Party is holding their endorsement convention this weekend to determine the party’s supported candidates for critical positions. As part of WDET’s weekly series…MichMash…Gongwer News Service’s Zach Gorchow and Alethia Kasben discusses what those positions are and which candidates have the best chances of winning. Party chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, Curtis Hertel, Jr. describes the convention will go and the status of the Michigan Democratic Party.

“We are prepared for a long day and shorter lines.” said Hertel. The party chair said this might be the largest convention in the history of the Michigan Democratic convention. The voting process is made easier with what Hertel calls a simple text and email based voting system. The voting is proportional voting.

Secretary of State and Attorney General are the biggest positions being voted on during the convention. “Everybody has a chance to run. What’s important is that we run a fair process. It’s going to be an organizing effort. Who can get their people and their votes to the convention floor” said Hertel.

The midterm elections will be held on November 3rd 2026

• More from WDET:
• MichMash: Michigan Republicans hold 2026 state endorsement convention
• US steps into war between Israel and Iran, strikes 3 Iranian nuclear sites