Munising Mayor Pro Tem Johanna Bogater attended the 2023 State of the State address in person on Wednesday, January 25 at the Michigan State Capitol. Bogater was a guest of 109th District Representative Jenn Hill (D-Marquette).
“I felt honored and privileged to experience a historic speech at Governor Whitmer’s State of the State address, especially at the side of friend, Rep. Jenn Hill. It was an amazing experience in an extraordinary space. I had only a very small glimpse into that world and I have an increased appreciation for the hard work our legislators do,” Bogater said.
According to city staff, leaders of larger municipalities are often invited to attend the State of the State address, but it is unknown if a member of the Munising City Commission has ever been invited. In a release, Hill cited Bogater’s commitment to funding efforts for education and child care efficiently at local levels of government as the reason why she was invited to the address.
Hill said that she was excited with the plan laid out by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in the address. In the speech, the governor discussed her legislative agenda for the new term, which includes bolstering the economy, increasing public safety, lowering costs for families, protecting fundamental rights, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education, and attracting talent to Michigan.
“The governor has laid out an exceptional agenda for our state. Her plan will help ensure that over 110,000 low-income kids get to go to preschool. Mayor Pro Tem Bogater and I have fought tirelessly to make education accessible to every family, no matter their income bracket or ZIP code. I was glad to see the governor advancing this and other common-sense priorities that will make a positive impact on Michigan families,” Hill said.
While statewide political parties have made comments regarding the State of the State address, no other Upper Peninsula politicians have issued official statements at the time of publication. This includes local State Senator Ed McBroom (R-Waucedah Township) or bordering state representative districts, which are all held by Republicans.
