AGP Executive Report

U-M Threat Case: Federal prosecutors unsealed indictments charging eight people tied to University of Michigan protests with allegedly coordinating threats, intimidation, vandalism and property damage aimed at U-M leaders, law enforcement and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit, with DOJ saying the campaign was tied to pushing divestment from Israel. Intel & Surveillance: President Trump’s pick of Bill Pulte as acting director of national intelligence is raising alarms on Capitol Hill because the role would oversee FISA Section 702, a key tool for collecting foreign electronic communications. Bridge Watch: Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney signaled the Gordie Howe International Bridge ribbon-cutting could slip beyond the end of the week, while U.S. officials and Michigan stakeholders continue to frame any delay as not a crisis. Local Government: Laketown Township set aside up to $25,000 for legal fees in a composting-odor dispute, as it seeks to evict a tenant tied to Cocoa Corporation’s operations. Consumer Protection: Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel warned homeowners about home-improvement scams, urging people to verify licensing, avoid high-pressure sales and read contracts carefully. Courts: A Michigan Court of Appeals panel overturned a conviction tied to the Whitmer kidnapping plot, finding jury instructions improperly treated kidnapping as a “violent felony” for terrorist-act purposes.

Federal Courts & Civil Rights: A U.S. attorney says eight University of Michigan–associated anti-Israel activists were indicted for an alleged intimidation and vandalism campaign targeting U-M officials, law enforcement, and the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Detroit. Public Safety & Courts: Jackson’s City Hall lost a bid to dismiss the Hayes Hotel lawsuit in Jackson County Circuit Court, keeping the dispute alive after an earlier appellate remand. Education Policy: A Michigan House committee advanced bills to boost K-5 literacy, including specialized training requirements for teachers, as lawmakers cite persistent reading proficiency gaps. Public Health & State Workforce: MDHHS is offering a Michigan Opioid Treatment Access Internship Stipend Program for students completing unpaid internships tied to SUD treatment careers. Law Enforcement & Local Government: Pentwater’s police department earned state accreditation after a multi-year process, while Marquette’s city commission moved to review renter protections and related ordinances. Economy & Messaging: An anti-Trump group is running “Sticker Shock Summer” billboards in multiple states, including Michigan, tying higher prices to federal policy. Community Services: The Red Cross is urging blood and platelet donations to prevent summer shortages.

Detroit Infrastructure & Zoning: Detroit City Council approved rezoning and community benefits tied to GLWA’s $130M Jefferson Chalmers pump station upgrades, including new sanitary pumping and rehab of storm pumps—despite nearby residents’ concerns about construction, outreach, aesthetics, and noise. Canada-U.S. Trade Corridor: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe Bridge will open “at the end of the week,” after Trump threatened to block it over ownership and “compensation” claims. Michigan Courts & Public Safety: The Michigan Court of Appeals vacated Joseph Morrison’s convictions tied to the 2020 Whitmer kidnapping plot, ruling kidnapping can’t serve as the violent-felony basis for Michigan’s terrorism law; AG Dana Nessel says she’ll appeal. Elections & Legal Accountability: New reporting says a Norm Eisen-linked nonprofit helped Democratic state prosecutors in Trump elector-related cases, raising fresh questions about outside groups’ role in enforcement. Higher Ed & Governance: Michigan State University trustees’ “loyalty” pledge drew criticism from higher-ed groups, who argue it chills free speech and accountability. Federal Policy Impact on Michigan: AG Dana Nessel won a preliminary injunction blocking USDA funding conditions tied to immigration and DEI-related requirements, and a separate court ruling vacated a Trump H-1B petition tax. Energy & Environment: EPA is moving to roll back PFAS drinking-water limits, while Michigan utilities and cities continue grappling with water and infrastructure planning after flooding.

Gordie Howe Bridge: Canadian PM Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe International Bridge will be ready for opening by the end of the week, with ribbon-cutting expected Friday and traffic likely to start June 15—after Trump’s earlier threat to block it. Elections & Courts: DOJ argues Georgia can remove voters during the NVRA’s 90-day “quiet period” if it’s done case-by-case using federal flags. Whitmer Plot Update: Michigan Court of Appeals vacates a Jackson County man’s conviction tied to the 2020 Whitmer kidnap plot, ruling kidnapping can’t be treated as a “violent felony” for the terrorism charge. Redistricting Strategy: The DLCC lays out state legislative targets it says will shape future map fights, naming Michigan among core battlegrounds. Auto & Trade: Magna CEO says the supplier is open to assembling Chinese vehicles in Canada only for long-term plans. Federal Oversight: U.S. Sen. Gary Peters and Rep. Elissa Slotkin urge Trump to issue a major disaster declaration for April storm damage across dozens of Michigan counties. Local Governance & Education: A Detroit lawsuit argues Michigan’s education system is in crisis due to governance without accountability. Public Safety: Court/justice updates include the vacated Whitmer-plot conviction and a new domestic assault charge in Detroit.

Michigan Courts & Elections: The Michigan Court of Appeals sided with the Department of State in a ballot-access fight brought by Oakland County judicial candidate Ariel Drissman, while also taking a swipe at how the statute was written—highlighting how tight signature-review deadlines can decide races. Unemployment Policy: The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency says July changes will raise the bar for claimants, including a new requirement to document at least three work-search activities each week when certifying for benefits. Local Government & Land Use: Lyon Township residents packed a planning meeting to oppose a proposed data center, arguing the project would harm property values and quality of life, while the developer warned it could pursue legal action if approvals stall. State Politics & Public Safety: Gov. Whitmer’s administration is also pushing elder and vulnerable adult abuse prevention grants, as Michigan continues to focus on accountability in care settings. Congressional Race Watch: A new poll from a D.C. firm shows Kalamazoo state Sen. Sean McCann leading Rep. Bill Huizenga in Michigan’s 4th District, a key battleground for control of the U.S. House.

Gordie Howe Bridge: A ribbon-cutting for the Windsor-Detroit crossing is reportedly tentatively set for Friday, with sources saying Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and former Gov. Rick Snyder may attend, while Windsor officials say they haven’t been invited yet. Elder Abuse Funding: MDHHS is seeking proposals for elder and vulnerable adult abuse prevention programs, with applications due July 1 and funding aimed at areas like mediation, hoarding response, safe housing, and forensic accounting. Public Health: The U.S. is on pace for a measles surge, with 2,030 cases reported nationwide as of June 4—mostly among unvaccinated people. Immigration/Work Visas: A federal judge rejected Trump’s $100,000 H-1B application fee, calling it an unlawful tax; the administration says it will appeal. Michigan Politics & Governance: A Michigan-focused report highlights growing backlash to data centers, while another story notes Michigan’s wholesale cannabis tax is underperforming expectations. Local Crime & Courts: A Macomb County man is headed to trial on allegations including assault and stabbing a dog.

Michigan Politics & Federal Oversight: U.S. Sen. Gary Peters pressed DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin during a Senate hearing for updates on two Michigan projects, including the Gordie Howe International Bridge and CBP readiness—Mullin said CBP is “staffed” and “ready to go.” U.S. Policy & Security: Michigan Democrats Rep. Haley Stevens and Sen. Elissa Slotkin announced a bill to block Chinese-connected connected vehicles from entering the U.S. via Canada and Mexico, citing data-collection and surveillance risks. Democrats’ Senate Math: A surging left-leaning Michigan primary contender, Abdul El-Sayed, is raising anxiety among Democrats who fear he could hurt their chances in the general election. Great Lakes Environment: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will survey sea lampreys in Alpena County’s Long Lake Outlet–Devils Lake area to decide whether control measures are needed. Community Safety: Michigan AG Dana Nessel warned new high school grads about common scams targeting young adults, including job and rental listing fraud. Labor & Local Power: Nexteer workers’ rank-and-file committee sent an open letter backing a walkout and criticizing UAW leadership for not allowing their strike. Sports (MIS): Denny Hamlin won the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway, dedicating the victory to late teammate Kyle Busch.

Iran Nuclear Standoff: Trump says there’s “no reason” to retrieve Iran’s enriched uranium, framing the dispute as monitoring and insisting the material is “entombed,” despite conflicting U.S., French, and IAEA assessments. Prison Rights: A Michigan inmate is suing over denial of investing books at Cooper Street Correctional Facility, arguing the ban violates First Amendment rights. AI Public Ownership: OpenAI’s Sam Altman met with Sen. Bernie Sanders after Sanders pushed a plan for the public to hold a 50% stake in AI companies; Trump also floated a White House partnership idea. Michigan Disaster Aid: Gov. Whitmer requested a presidential disaster declaration for April storms and flooding across 43 counties, seeking FEMA Individual and Public Assistance. Immigration & Safety: ICE says a man impaled in a Detroit crash involving immigration agents is in stable condition, while family members had reported they couldn’t confirm his status. Local Governance: St. Clair County’s animal control director resigned after commissioners approved an ordinance she said undermines public safety and the shelter’s mission. Public Health & Food: A federal judge blocked USDA SNAP restrictions tied to gender ideology and other conditions, pausing enforcement for states challenging the rules.

NASCAR in Michigan: Denny Hamlin won the Busch Light Pole for the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway with a 195.117 mph lap, but expects to start from the rear after damage from a practice flat tire. Local sports spotlight: Carson Hocevar missed pole by .018 seconds and will lead the field at the start, setting up a home-state storyline for Sunday’s Cup race. Public safety reminder: Michigan DNR is urging swimmers to use buoyed swim areas and follow Great Lakes beach flags, noting some buoy installations are delayed. Outdoor access: Michigan’s “Three Free Weekend” is June 13-14, offering free fishing, free ORV riding on designated routes, and free entry to state parks. Crime watch regionally: A shooting near Toledo’s Old West End Festival left at least 12 people wounded, with police searching for suspects. Policy/legal: A federal judge temporarily blocked USDA from forcing states to comply with Trump administration gender and immigration conditions tied to billions in funding, including food assistance.

Prison Oversight in Focus: At Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility, a MDOC employee was placed on a stop order and suspended with pay amid allegations inmates were forced into overnight cleaning and threatened with solitary confinement, while lawmakers also track two recent sudden deaths and a third death reported June 6. Border/Infrastructure: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin told a Senate hearing the U.S. is staffed and ready for customs and border operations at the Gordie Howe International Bridge, even as the contractor’s final sign-off is still pending and Democrats accuse Trump of playing politics over the delayed opening. Local Police Accountability: East Lansing’s council restored funding for the Independent Police Oversight Commission’s use-of-force work after earlier proposed cuts, including money to hire a consultant to analyze use-of-force data. Federal Politics: President Trump issued a full pardon to former Indiana Rep. Stephen Buyer, convicted of insider trading, renewing debate over political motivations in prosecutions and pardons. Detroit Civic Preservation: The Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs’ historic clubhouse was named among America’s Most Endangered Historic Places, seeking funds to reopen after major pipe damage. Drug Pricing Politics: TrumpRx expanded again, adding 160 drugs to the government-backed discounted prescription site.

Gordie Howe Bridge: Federal briefing says the Gordie Howe International Bridge is “essentially complete,” but the opening fight is still tied up in lawsuits that could push a trial to 2027–2028, keeping Detroit-Windsor commuters in limbo. U.S. Senate politics (labor): The UAW is backing Abdul El-Sayed for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat, a move aimed at boosting the progressive candidate in a tight Aug. 4 nomination race. Public safety & courts: A Wayne County judge sentenced Michael Lopez to life without parole for the killing of Melvindale Police Cpl. Mohamed Said. Immigration and local crisis: A Detroit crash left a man impaled and his family demanding answers after reports that immigration agents were present. Disaster response: Gov. Whitmer requested a major disaster declaration for April storms, flooding and tornado damage across 43 Michigan counties to unlock FEMA aid. Education policy: Whitmer’s new smartphone ban in Michigan schools takes effect for the 2026–27 school year, with districts setting the rules for instructional time. Housing mission: Habitat for Humanity Northeast Michigan released a new “Our Calling” declaration to tackle rural housing shortages across five counties.

Disaster Aid Push: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump to declare a major disaster for Michigan’s April storms and tornadoes, seeking FEMA Individual Assistance for 37 counties after flooding and nine confirmed tornadoes displaced residents and damaged homes, businesses, and roads. UAW Endorsements: The United Auto Workers backed Abdul El-Sayed for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat and Jocelyn Benson for governor, a major boost in the high-stakes 2026 Democratic primaries. Data Center Fight: Michigan lawmakers and local officials keep circling the same flashpoint—public opposition, energy costs, and local impacts—while proposals for statewide pauses and stricter rules gain traction. Higher Ed Affordability: Students across Michigan formed United Michigan Student Governments to lobby lawmakers for affordability and post-graduation opportunities, aiming to unify voices from public universities. Public Safety & Courts: A prison diversion bill for drug offenses advanced as lawmakers look to reduce repeat arrests, while Michigan courts also saw ongoing legal battles tied to state programs and governance. Community & Environment: Elk Rapids opened Michigan’s first permanent non-motorized boat wash with an accessible launch to help prevent aquatic invasive species.

Federal Research Policy: Radiologists are alarmed by a new OMB proposal that would tighten federal grant rules, add monitoring and reporting, require E-Verify for federally funded employees, and restrict how DEI factors into funding decisions. Immigration & Health: ICE detention is blamed for a sharp health decline in Wisconsin Palestinian activist Salah Sarsour, with lawyers alleging medical neglect and constitutional rights violations. Michigan Politics & Campaign Trail: Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson skipped a FOX 2 Democratic gubernatorial debate, saying she was committed to a Detroit educators event—prompting questions about scheduling and priorities. Public Safety & Courts: A Rochester Hills man tied to a $63M check-selling scheme was sentenced to 10 years; in Roseville, a defendant accused of killing his ex was found competent for trial. Local Housing: Oakland County broke ground on Auburn Oaks, a “neuro-inclusive” neighborhood with 55 homes, including 19 for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. State Oversight: Attorney General Dana Nessel marked Elder Abuse Awareness Month and highlighted resources and a June 15 walk. War Powers: The U.S. House approved a resolution to block Trump from continuing the Iran war without congressional approval, with four Republicans joining Democrats.

Gordie Howe Bridge Fight: Michigan Democrats are pressing President Trump to open the nearly finished Gordie Howe International Bridge, saying Customs staff are “ready to go” and blaming political delay for economic harm. Iran War Powers: The U.S. House voted 215-208 to end U.S. involvement in the Iran war, with four Republicans breaking ranks—including Michigan Rep. Tom Barrett—setting up fresh pressure on Trump as strikes continue. Michigan Data Centers: State Sen. Jim Runestad proposed a one-year moratorium on new data center projects, while Flint’s City Council committee advanced a 12-month freeze, as lawmakers and residents weigh electricity, water, and local impacts. Sex Abuse Accountability: Lansing Rep. Julie Brixie reintroduced her Justice for Survivors package to extend criminal sexual conduct timelines and add a one-year revival window for expired civil claims. Public Safety: Kentwood police arrested a suspect tied to two random attacks on a 14-year-old and a 66-year-old. Election Administration: Michigan Democrats dismissed a candidate’s appeal over MSU trustee endorsement convention vote fraud claims. Health & Courts: Federal prosecutors charged two NIH scientists with allegedly smuggling inactivated mpox samples through Detroit Metro Airport while lying to authorities.

War Powers Showdown: The U.S. House passed a war powers resolution to force President Trump to withdraw U.S. forces from Iran or get congressional approval, 215-208, with four Republicans joining Democrats—one of them Michigan Rep. Tom Barrett—setting up a likely Senate fight. Michigan Courts Under Strain: A statewide survey of nearly 300 Michigan family-law practitioners says the family court system is failing across the state, with delays and judges assigned without family-law experience topping the list. Mackinac Island Ferry Control: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bipartisan bill letting Mackinac Island voters amend the city charter to regulate ferry prices and related fees, including baggage and parking. Public Safety in the U.P.: A Marquette-area shooting and chase ended with a suspect crashing into fuel pumps at a Negaunee gas station, triggering a major fire; police say the suspect is in custody. Health & Security: Two NIH scientists were charged in a case involving alleged smuggling of deactivated mpox vials into the U.S. through Detroit Metro Airport and lying to investigators. State Policy Watch: Whitmer also announced appointments of two attorneys to her staff, adding legal talent with Supreme Court and federal appellate experience. Education: Michigan lawmakers are moving to make free school meals permanent, aiming to end annual budget fights over breakfast and lunch for about 1.4 million students.

Mackinac Island Ferry Fight: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed Senate Bill 304 letting Mackinac Island voters expand the city’s charter authority over ferry service fees—potentially including early/priority boarding, parking, baggage, and other charges—after residents said total passage costs jumped from $34 to $51. Public Safety: Dearborn launched an “Aggressive Driving Unit” using three electric patrol vehicles to target speeding, tailgating, distracted driving, and other crash-prone behavior. Courts & Accountability: Michigan lawmakers grilled the Rx Kids program as Republicans pressed for oversight and cost concerns while founder Dr. Mona Hanna defended the “universal and unconditional” cash assistance model. Election Law: Michigan’s election rules continue to draw scrutiny as officials and lawmakers debate absentee ballot restrictions and guidance for law enforcement. Health & Federal Charges: Two NIH-linked scientists face federal charges tied to allegedly smuggling deactivated mpox vials through Detroit Metro Airport and lying to investigators. Crime & Threats: A man from Oahu was charged for allegedly threatening Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the state Capitol, with authorities saying he planned a shooting trip to Lansing.