Eric Lupher

Eric Lupher is president of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan, a nonprofit public affairs research organization

Articles

Opinion | Why computers alone can’t fix Michigan gerrymandering

September 12, 2018 | Eric Lupher

Why do we need a redistricting commission made up of fallible, possibly biased people to redraw Michigan’s political boundaries? Can’t a computer do that? Eric Lupher explains why you need both

Opinion | The primary election is over: Let’s talk about public health

August 21, 2018 | Eric Lupher

It doesn’t get the attention of an issue like crumbling roads, but public health is a vital part of our infrastructure, and we need to invest in it.

Opinion | Challenge to Michigan redistricting initiative show need for reform

June 21, 2018 | Eric Lupher

Putting reviews of ballot initiatives at the end of the process creates headaches and expensive misfires, says the president of the Citizens Research Council.

Opinion | Michigan term limits sounded good, but they’ve failed

May 8, 2018 | Eric Lupher

Michigan has had a quarter century of experience with term limits, but the promises of a more dynamic democracy never came to fruition.

Reining in ‘special authorities’ that don’t represent the people

October 5, 2017 | Eric Lupher

Some government authorities representing Michigan counties or towns are allowed to raise taxes or issue debt even when their voting members do not equally represent the residents of that region.

Despite economic growth, Michigan budget to face steep challenges

August 1, 2017 | Eric Lupher

A new report shows over $2 billion in potential General Fund revenue will be diverted or dedicated to other promised programs by 2023. Add an economy that will inevitably cool, and Michigan will soon be facing serious budget challenges.

Want to improve city finances? Give counties more to do.

April 6, 2017 | Eric Lupher

Taking a more regional approach to local government would improve the efficiency and economics of service delivery. Counties are in a better position to drive technology, elections, tax assessments and other back office functions.