Dear Friends and Neighbors,

Welcome to the first edition of my e-newsletter for 2023.

Below you’ll find a legislative update along with some additional resources I hope you find helpful.

Thank you for allowing me to represent you in the Michigan Senate. I am grateful each and every day to work for the people of the 17th Senate District.

In Liberty,

Jonathan Lindsey
State Senator
17th District

This month, the Senate passed partisan budget bills that fail to address the true needs of Michigan families. It is deeply concerning and disappointing to see Senate Democrats pass highly partisan, pork-laden budgets that prioritize their own interests over those of the state and its hardworking residents.

Despite having complete control over the state budget process, Senate Democrats have decided to prioritize their own political agenda over responsible and effective budgeting. They have spent down the state’s record $9 billion surplus with wasteful spending on pet projects and inefficient government programs rather than prioritizing the needs of Michiganders such as economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and improving the state’s balance sheet by paying down long-term liabilities.

Republicans have been side-lined throughout the budget process. We offered more than 170 amendments in an attempt to curb the reckless spending, however, each one was unfortunately voted down. Instead of spending money on pools, electric buses and pickleball courts like the Democrats’ plan, our amendments would have reprioritized spending to:

Michigan deserves a responsible, transparent, and accountable budget process that puts the needs of its people first, rather than the political interests of a few. It is time for Michigan Democrats to put aside politics and prioritize the wellbeing of all Michiganders. I urge them to reconsider their tactics and approach budgeting with the seriousness and responsibility it deserves. The future of Michigan depends on it.

I recently joined the “Delaney in the Morning” program and shared my experience and frustrations working on this year’s budget thus far. The interview can be heard here.

I’d like to thank everyone who attended my recent office hours. During these meetings, I had the opportunity to meet with community members, listen to their stories, and hear their perspectives. It was incredibly gratifying to see so many people show up to ask questions about what is going on in Lansing and discuss the current legislation that is being passed.

My office has also scheduled office hours for the month of June. Upcoming office hours are as follows:

If you have any questions or are unable to attend my upcoming office hours, feel free to contact me through my website at SenatorJonathanLindsey.com, via email at [email protected] or by phone at 517-373-3543.

I encourage all citizens to reflect on and honor the sacrifices of our service members this Memorial Day.

This day is an important reminder that freedom comes at a great cost, and we must never forget the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our nation. Their service and sacrifice have allowed us to live in the greatest country on earth, where we enjoy unparalleled freedoms and opportunities. We owe them our deepest gratitude and respect and must ensure that their memories serve as a reminder for future generations.

As we celebrate Memorial Day, let us also remember the families of our fallen heroes. They too have made tremendous sacrifices and carry the heavy burden of losing a loved one who bravely defended our country. We owe it to them to honor their sacrifice and ensure that they are never forgotten. I urge all Americans to take a moment this Memorial Day to remember our fallen heroes, to pay tribute to their sacrifice, and to reaffirm our commitment to the values and principles that they died defending. Let us honor their memory by continuing to work towards a brighter future for our nation and for the world.

As a way to recognize these brave men and women, the Michigan Senate hosts an annual Memorial Day service to honor veterans from across the state.

I was honored to be a part of the 28th Senate Memorial Day service. It’s a somber experience I will never forget. I had the pleasure of being part of the welcoming ceremony and introducing 1st Sgt. Andrew Schwailler to play “Taps” before the chamber and ceremony guests.

I recently had some great opportunities to tour local businesses and see firsthand the ingenuity, hard work, and dedication that is on display throughout the 17th Senate District.

Meeting with business owners and their employees provided an invaluable opportunity to understand the struggles Michiganders are facing, especially in regard to business operations, and potential legislative fixes to improve these issues.

The 17th state Senate District includes Branch, Cass, and St. Joseph counties, along with parts of Berrien, Calhoun, Jackson and Hillsdale counties.