Deadlock between Benson, Republicans stalls absentee ballot rules
Republicans and Democrats on a joint House and Senate legislative committee are deadlocked on absentee ballot rules. The result...
Rick Pluta has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
Rick was one of the first Michigan political reporters to write about “pay-to-play” fundraising, and the controversies surrounding recognition of same-sex relationships. He broke the news that Gov. John Engler was planning a huge juvenile justice overhaul that included adult-time-for-adult-crime sentencing, and has continued to report since then on the effects of that policy decision.
He co-hosts the weekly segment “It’s Just Politics” on Michigan Radio with Zoe Clark.
Rick is fascinated by the game of politics, and the grand plans and human foibles that go into policy-making. You will never find him ice-fishing.
Nessel announces reelection bid
With little fanfare and even less surprise, Attorney General Dana Nessel has announced she will seek a second term. She...
Michigan Supreme Court to hear arguments on whether civil rights law covers LGBTQ people
The Michigan Supreme Court will hear arguments Wednesday on whether the state’s civil rights law protects LGBTQ people against...
Mask requirements to be lifted in most state buildings
Mask requirements will soon be lifted in most facilities that are owned or leased by the state of Michigan. This...
State tax rollback possible even as Whitmer, GOP disagree on approach
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer hit the road Tuesday to sell her tax cut plans in metro Detroit as hints revealed room...
Whitmer to present spending plan this week
The first step toward spending Michigan’s surplus from tax revenue and federal recovery funds begins this week. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer...
U.S. House January 6 committee subpoenas Michigan Republicans
Two Michigan Republicans are on a list of people subpoenaed Friday by the U.S. House committee investigating the Jan. 6,...
Whitmer rolls out themes on pre-State of the State tour
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is on a statewide tour to pre-sell and fine-tune the State of the State she will deliver...
Michigan House cancels session amid COVID-19 surge
COVID-19 is canceling votes and meetings this week in the Michigan House of Representatives. House Speaker Jason Wentworth said Monday...
Michigan secretary of state and attorney general are investigating whether fake electors broke law
State officials — including Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson and Attorney General Dana Nessel — say they’re looking into whether...
Michigan State University report finds racial disparities in traffic stops
Michigan State Police leaders are promising improvements after a study found a disproportionately high number of Black drivers are stopped...
Whitmer will deliver 4th State of the State on Jan. 26 virtually
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s fourth State of the State address will take place Jan. 26. This is the second year in...