Rick Pluta

Activists and community members march into the Minnesota State Capitol building during a Trans Day of Visibility rally on March 31, 2023. Minnesota is one of at least 12 states that has restricted gender-affirming care for minors this year.

Minnesota to join at least 4 other states in protecting transgender care this year

Dana Ferguson

In 2023, a record number of states have passed rules or legislation to eliminate youth gender-affirming care, but a record number of states have also moved to protect care for trans youth and adults.

Michigan Democrats pledge action on gun restrictions after shooting at Michigan State

Rick Pluta

First the first time in 40 years, Democrats control every part of Michigan's state government. After Monday's shooting at Michigan State University, the party is pushing hard for gun restrictions.

Michigan voters reelect Gov. Whitmer, safeguard abortion rights in the state

Steve Inskeep

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, won a second term over Republican Tudor Dixon. Voters also acted to enshrine abortion rights in the state's constitution.

Michigan's COVID-19 Plan Is Now Less Stick, More Carrot

Rick Pluta

Michigan has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases, and skepticism is growing over health orders and vaccines. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is in persuasion mode to try to get vaccine skeptics on board.

Armed protesters congregate at the Michigan State Capitol in Lansing on Oct. 17. On Monday, the Michigan State Capitol Commission voted to ban open carry in common areas of the building.

After Violent Mobs In D.C., Michigan Bans Open Carry In State Capitol

Rick Pluta

Democrats say it doesn't go far enough. Republicans say it goes too far. After armed protests in Lansing and a violent riot in D.C., Michigan's Capitol bans open carry, joining a majority of states.

Michigan House Republicans have taken committee assignments away from state Democratic Rep. Cynthia Johnson after she posted what they called a threatening Facebook video. The move came days after she received lynching threats.

Michigan GOP Sidelines Democrat For Her 'Unacceptable' Response To Lynching Threats

Rick Pluta

Days after Rep. Cynthia Johnson was harassed for her criticism of Rudy Giuliani, Michigan Republicans removed her from committee posts for sharing what they called a threatening video on Facebook.

Michigan's GOP Lawmakers Head To White House As Trump Contests Election Results

Rick Pluta

Michigan's top Republican lawmakers are reportedly headed to the White House Friday. Trump's campaign is trying to challenge votes from heavily Democratic parts of the state without success in court.

While COVID-19 Stats Rise In Some States, Cases Drop In Others

Debbie Elliott

Florida and Alabama are seeing rapid increases in coronavirus cases, which experts link to the states' reopening dates. But Michigan's case numbers are dropping — meaning schools can reopen this fall.

Barber Karl Manke, of Owosso, Mich., gives a free haircut to Parker Shonts on May 20 on the steps of the State Capitol. On Thursday, the Michigan Court of Appeals says Manke must close his barbershop.

Michigan Appeals Court Says Barbershop Must Close Despite Its Protests

Rick Pluta

In a reverse decision, the judges say that barber Karl Manke, who refused to close his shop in defiance of Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's shutdown order, must shutter.

Michigan State Officials Plan For New Stay At Home Protest At Capitol

Rick Pluta

Michigan's governor has started lifting restrictions but critics say not fast enough. Officials worry armed protesters will refuse to follow safety measures when they gather at the Capitol Thursday.