Sturgis-Coldwater News

Sen. Jonathan Lindsey, a Republican from Allen, expressed his disappointment but not surprise with the recommendations put forth by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's population council. In a statement issued on Thursday, Lindsey criticized the council for promoting the governor's predetermined, agenda-driven goals.

Lindsey, who was nominated by Senate Republican Leader Aric Nesbitt, highlighted the lack of openness to new ideas on how to grow Michigan's population and economy. He stated, "this effort was not being taken seriously and the council was not open to new ideas on how we can grow our state’s population or economy."

The senator also voiced his concerns about the partisan nature of the council's recommendations, stating, "To no one’s surprise, the partisan council echoed many of the same failed partisan priorities that got us into this position in the first place." Lindsey pointed out that while the council avoided calling for tax increases, there was no clear plan on how to fund the proposed $2.5 billion initiatives.

Lindsey criticized the allocation of funds, mentioning the budget surplus of over $9 billion that could have been used to make meaningful changes to educational opportunities and attract growth. He blamed legislative Democrats for spending the surplus on partisan projects in their districts instead.

The senator also expressed his disappointment with the council's call to expand education, stating that the opportunity to do so was missed earlier this year when Democratic leadership eliminated reading standards and teacher evaluation standards. He argued that these actions prioritized the demands of teachers unions over the needs of students and parental involvement.

Concerned about Michigan's shrinking population, Lindsey stressed the need for serious discussions and proposals to address the issue. He criticized the council's report as "ambiguous lip service" that would only result in more failed tax and spend policies. Lindsey asserted that increasing the cost of living and raising a family in the state would drive more people to leave. He emphasized the importance of reducing the tax burden, tightening educational standards, supporting small businesses, and upholding the principles of freedom and liberty to attract the best talent.

In conclusion, Sen. Jonathan Lindsey expressed his disappointment with the recommendations put forth by Gov. Whitmer's population council. He criticized the council for its lack of openness to new ideas and its alignment with failed partisan priorities. Lindsey stressed the need for serious discussions and proposals to address Michigan's shrinking population, focusing on reducing the tax burden and supporting small businesses.

To find out more, go to this link: https://www.senatorjonathanlindsey.com/lindsey-disappointed-not-surprised-with-taskforce-recommendations/