Michigan Republicans Back Legislation Criticized as Weakening Executive Branch Oversight
Lansing, MI – August 25, 2025 – Seven Michigan Republican members of Congress voted in favor of legislation that critics argue undermines constitutional checks and balances on presidential authority, a move drawing sharp contrast with the state’s Democratic senators and representatives. The vote, occurring earlier this month, has ignited debate over the role of Congress in overseeing the executive branch, particularly in light of concerns raised during the Trump administration.
The legislation was supported by Representatives Jack Barrett, Tim Bergman, Bill Huizenga, John James, Lisa McClain, John Moolenaar, and Tim Walberg. The article does not detail the specific legislation, but frames it as perhaps enabling policies detrimental to Michigan’s core infrastructure – its food supply, hospitals, and emergency alert systems.
The Detroit free Press opinion piece, authored by University of Michigan professor Lilia M. Cortina, highlights a perceived double standard in Michigan’s congressional delegation. Senators Elissa Slotkin and Gary Peters, along with the state’s Democratic House members, have consistently voted to “shield our state from Trump’s greatest hits,” according to the author. This refers to actions taken during the previous administration that were viewed as overreach or detrimental to Michigan’s interests.Cortina points to a 2017 article in The Conversation detailing concerns about then-President trump’s actions potentially bypassing constitutional checks and balances. The article specifically references the constitutional obligation of Congress to act as a check on executive power.
The opinion piece emphasizes the importance of this issue for Michigan voters as the 2026 midterm elections approach. “Michiganders are no fools,” Cortina writes. ”When the political smoke clears…we will remember who stood up for The Great Lakes State. And who did not.”
The article includes a photograph of Senator Elissa Slotkin touring the MediLodge of Okemos nursing care facility on April 24, 2025, with Shelly Berryman, Medilodge vice president of operations.
lilia M. Cortina is University Diversity and Social Conversion Professor of Psychology, Women’s and Gender Studies, and Management and Organizations at the University of Michigan.Readers are encouraged to submit letters to the editor via freep.com/letters. The Detroit Free Press also promotes its digital subscription service.
