Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer faces backlash after awarding over $145,000 in bonuses to her cabinet members, raising questions about the use of taxpayer money and political motivations.
She knows that’s our money, right?
At a Glance
- Gov. Whitmer distributed over $145,000 in bonuses to 15 Cabinet members and department directors in 2024
- The bonuses were part of Michigan’s performance pay program and included political appointees
- Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady received the highest bonus of $10,145
- Critics question the timing and transparency of these bonuses amid economic challenges
- Concerns raised about incentivizing political loyalty rather than performance
Unprecedented Bonuses Raise Eyebrows
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a prominent Democratic leader who has been at the center of a multitude of major scandals in recent years, has now come under fire for distributing over $145,000 in bonuses to 15 Cabinet members and department directors in 2024. This move, part of Michigan’s performance pay program, has sparked controversy and raised questions about the ethical use of taxpayer money.
She thinks your tax money is a personal slush fund.
The bonuses, ranging from $8,570 to $10,145, were awarded to political appointees, many of whom already earn over $200,000 annually. Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady, State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks, and State Budget Director Jen Flood were among those who received the highest bonuses of $10,145 each.
— L. Richardson (@RealLRichardson) November 20, 2024
The distribution of these bonuses has drawn significant criticism from both the public and political opponents. James Haveman, a former Mental Health and Health Director under previous governors, highlighted the unprecedented nature of these payouts.
“I was a member of Engler’s Cabinet for 12 years and Snyder’s for two and never even saw or heard of a bonus payment,” James Haveman said.
Interesting…
Critics argue that the bonuses might be a tactic to reward political loyalty rather than genuine performance. The timing of these payouts, amid economic challenges and budget constraints faced by many Michigan residents, has further fueled the controversy.
It sounds like it, doesn’t it?
Whitmer’s Political Ambitions
Governor Whitmer’s rising national political profile adds another layer of scrutiny to this issue. Recently reappointed to the Council of Governors by President Trump, Whitmer is considered a potential contender for the 2028 presidential election. This bonus controversy could potentially impact her political aspirations and governance record.
The governor’s office has remained silent on the matter, declining to respond to requests for comment from the Washington Examiner.
As you’d probably expect.
Can she seriously still run for president after all these scandals?
