Internal divisions doom Michigan Democrats in their final days of legislative control

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Democrats, recently hailed as a model of electoral and legislative success, are ending their final days in complete control of the state government mired by divisions and outright rebellion that has stalled votes on key priorities. Tensions peaked Thursday as the state House’s top Democrat ordered absent members back and barred the doors, only to reverse course and end the year’s legislative session. And in a statement Thursday, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks said she is “deeply disappointed that the House of Representatives called it quits.” “‘Frustrated’ is too light of a word to describe my dismay that the House failed to meet its obligations in this historic moment,” said Brinks, a Grand Rapids Democrat. “And I would say vote, but that’s between them and their constituents.” Democratic Attorney General Dana Nessel said in a statement Wednesday that Whitsett’s and House Republicans’ absences were “criminal,” which drew swift blowback from both sides of the aisle. House Republicans walked out of session Dec. 13, saying they would not vote on anything unless it’s funding for roads and legislation that would address new minimum wage and paid sick leave requirements.