Michigan Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt, R-Porter Township, reflects on the state’s first year of full Democratic leadership in four decades.

Democrats ‘came out of the gate just at a full sprint,’ and didn’t let up in 2023, passing a slew of priorities, says Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids. Next year may be a different story.

How ya doin’, Michigan? As 2023 ends, we take a look at how the state fared this year, and whether our mood matches what the economic and demographic numbers say. Spoiler alert: It hasn’t been all bad.

At least 17 states have issued PFAS-related fish consumption advisories, KFF Health News found. But with no federal guidance, what is considered safe to eat varies significantly among states, most of which provide no regulation.

Amid a push toward renewable energy in Michigan, taxpayers are subsidizing technology to turn animal feces into fuel. Opponents say it further subsidizes the growth of an industry responsible for widespread water pollution problems.

House Republican Leader Matt Hall says there are opportunities for bipartisanship with the House split 54-54 before special elections this spring.

Despite an early adjournment, 2023 will be remembered as the most consequential year ever in the Michigan Legislature, House Speaker Joe Tate, D-Detroit, says.

Trained as an investigative reporter, John Bebow launched Bridge and the Center for Michigan and grew it into a juggernaut.

Bridge grew up under the reins of a metro Detroit native known for his meticulous editing, investigative chops, fairness and self-deprecating humor.

Lisa Yanick Litwiller has a track record of growing audience, culture change and innovation. She comes to Bridge from the Center for Public Integrity.