Republican Candidates Exchange Personal Attacks
The latest Republican gubernatorial debate, hosted by WOOD-TV in Grand Rapids, featured several heated moments between candidates U.S. Rep. John James, businessman Perry Johnson, and former Attorney General Mike Cox.
Johnson emphasized his status as a political outsider, saying he was not a career politician. James quickly pushed back, criticizing Johnson's previous statewide campaigns and accusing him of misleading voters through campaign advertising.
Later in the debate, James and Cox exchanged pointed remarks over their backgrounds after Cox referenced James' family history. James responded by defending his family's journey from Mississippi, highlighting generations of hard work and sacrifice.
Despite the personal attacks, the candidates also discussed policy issues, including education. Each outlined proposals aimed at improving student achievement, with ideas ranging from expanding parental rights in education to allowing school funding to follow students.
Lansing Police Investigate Stabbing at Mental Health Facility
Lansing police have arrested a 28-year-old man following a stabbing Thursday afternoon at the Community Mental Health Authority serving Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham counties.
The incident occurred around 3 p.m. on the second floor of the facility outside its pharmacy, prompting a temporary lockdown.
According to CEO Sara Lurie, the victim was stabbed with a sharp plastic object below the shoulder near the chest. The victim was transported to a local hospital and is expected to recover. Police have not released additional information about the suspect or a possible motive.
BWL Proposes Utility Rate Increases
Customers of the Lansing Board of Water & Light could see higher utility bills later this year.
The utility is proposing rate increases for electric, water, and steam services beginning October 1. Public hearings on the proposal are scheduled for August 1 and August 4 at the REO Town Depot, where customers will have an opportunity to provide feedback before any final decision is made.
Whitmer Declares Flood Emergency
Governor Gretchen Whitmer has declared a state of emergency for three northern Lower Michigan counties following severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall on June 29.
The declaration covers Antrim, Cheboygan, and Emmet counties, where widespread flooding caused significant damage and disrupted local communities.
Michigan Joins John Deere Repair Settlement
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel joined four other state attorneys general and the Federal Trade Commission in reaching a settlement with John Deere over repair restrictions.
The agreement requires the agricultural equipment manufacturer to provide farmers and independent repair shops with greater access to diagnostic software and repair tools. Regulators alleged the company unfairly limited repair options by requiring customers to use authorized dealerships.
As part of the settlement, John Deere will pay $1 million to be shared among the participating states.
CNBC Ranks Michigan Among Top States for Business
Michigan continues to earn recognition for its business climate.
A new CNBC study ranks Michigan as the sixth-best state in the nation for business. Ohio claimed the top spot, followed by North Carolina, Virginia, Texas, and Minnesota.
