MIRS Monday Podcast

MIRS Monday, Mar. 30, 2014

What did Jim Byrum, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, see during his recent trip to Cuba? Byrum also gives updates on the emerging trade feud with Canada, Proposal 1 and his opinion on how Gov. Rick Snyder has treated agriculture.

Also, the legislative subcommittees have reported their suggested budgets for FY 2016, but how much does it matter considering voters haven't voiced their opinion on Proposal 1? This and much more in this week's edition of MIRS Monday.

MIRS analysis on Proposal 1 poll, 3/27/15

MIRS Editor Kyle Melinn speaks with MIRS Publisher John Reurink and Target Insyght's Ed Sarpolus on polling results that show Proposal 1 is losing 55 to 36 percent.

MIRS Monday, Mar. 23, 2014

Remember Skunk Works? The technology-based initiative crafted by Lansing attorney Richard McLellan, a self-described policy wonk for Gov. Rick Snyder and two previous governors, designed to use technology to drive down costs in schools? McLellan is back with his "second version of Skunk Works" called Digitally Optimized One-Room Schoolhouses or (DOORS). McLellan talks about his new idea, among other education-related ideas.

Also, Mark Grebner of Practical Political Consultants, makes his voter turnout predictions for Proposal 1, the road funding ballot proposal. What rabbit does he think will need to be pulled out of a hat in early May to make this proposal happen?

MIRS Monday, Mar. 23, 2014

Remember Skunk Works? The technology-based initiative crafted by Lansing attorney Richard McLellan, a self-described policy wonk for Gov. Rick Snyder and two previous governors, designed to use technology to drive down costs in schools? McLellan is back with his "second version of Skunk Works" called Digitally Optimized One-Room Schoolhouses or (DOORS). McLellan talks about his new idea, among other education-related ideas.

Also, Mark Grebner of Practical Political Consultants, makes his voter turnout predictions for Proposal 1, the road funding ballot proposal. What rabbit does he think will need to be pulled out of a hat in early May to make this proposal happen?

Incoming state Treasurer Nick Khouri's introductory press roundtable 3/17/15

DTE Vice President Nick Khouri was introduced today as the state's incoming state treasurer starting April 20. He will replace Treasurer Kevin Clinton, who is leaving for the private sector. The following is his first media availability unedited. 

MIRS Monday, Mar. 16, 2014

Why should Democrats support or not support Proposal 1? What are the issues they are grappling with as they head to the polls May 5?

UAW 6000 legislative liaison Ray Holman gives his thoughts on the merger of the Michigan Department of Human Services and Department of Community Health and other subjects.

It's also the pre-St. Patrick's Day edition of MIRS Monday, complete with a special greeting from a former legislator, a gift to the office's St. Patrick's Day skeptic and an Irish step dancing performance from Senate reporter Lauren Gibbons.

MIRS Monday, Mar. 9, 2014

Ten of the first 18 bills that have passed the House this term have been gun reform legislation. Steve Dulan, a board member with the Michigan Coalition of Responsible Gun Owners, talks about this dynamic and why pro-gun rights legislation remains a popular issue among conservatives.

Also, the MIRS team gives its opinion on the first Proposal 1 TV commercial and why its more important for the "yes" vote get on the airwaves. Finally, MIRS breaks down the front runners to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Candice Miller.

MIRS Monday, Mar. 2, 2014

Tricia Kinley of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce talks film incentives, "zappers" and the Department of Treasury. She also gives an update on where the Chamber is on taking a position on Proposal 1, the road funding ballot proposal.

MIRS Monday, Feb. 23, 2014

New Michigan Republican Party Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel holds her first press conference after knocking off two other challengers for the post. Hear how she addressed questions from the media. How does she plan to bring the various factions of the MRP together? Can Michigan be a competitive state in the presidential election?

Also, MIRS editor Kyle Melinn and reporter Craig Mauger recap the MRP convention. Who had a large presence at the convention? Who did not? What was the scene like for Proposal 1? This and much more in this week's edition.

MIRS Monday, Feb. 16, 2014

State Sen. Coleman Young II serves as the guest co-host as MIRS Monday records from the Michigan Democratic Party convention at Cobo Hall. Who is U.S. Rep. John Conyers' favorite president? Does U.S. Sen. Gary Peters still wear that sweatshirt he wore in his campaign ad? What's next for former Attorney General nominee Mark Totten?  Where does Board of Education President John Austin feel Republicans are taking public education in the state?

This is and much more on this week's edition of MIRS Monday.