Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer faces backlash after awarding over $145,000 in bonuses to political appointees, raising questions about the use of taxpayer money during economic challenges.
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
- Critics question the timing and transparency of these bonuses amid economic challenges
- Whitmer is considered a potential contender for the 2028 presidential election
Unprecedented Bonuses Spark Controversy
Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration in Michigan has come under fire for awarding substantial bonuses to key political appointees. The Democrat governor distributed over $145,000 in “performance pay” to 15 Cabinet members and department directors in 2024, a move that has raised eyebrows and drawn criticism from various quarters.
How can she defend this?
The bonuses, which were part of Michigan’s performance pay program, have been deemed unprecedented by some observers. James Haveman, a former Mental Health and Health Director who served under previous governors, expressed surprise at the practice.
“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,” Haveman said.
This statement underscores the unusual nature of Whitmer’s decision to award bonuses to political appointees, many of whom already earn over $200,000 annually.
Yes, you read that right!
Among the recipients, Michigan State Police Director Col. James Grady received the highest bonus of $10,145. State Treasurer Rachael Eubanks and State Budget Director Jen Flood also received bonuses of the same amount. Eight officials were awarded $9,662 each, while two others received $8,670 and $8,570 respectively.
That’s crazy!
Critics argue that these bonuses, which amount to nearly five percent of the appointees’ salaries, raise questions about the appropriate use of taxpayer money, especially during times of economic hardship for many Michigan residents
The timing of these bonuses has drawn particular scrutiny, given Whitmer’s rising profile in national politics. As a prominent Democratic leader who has been reappointed to the Council of Governors by President Trump, Whitmer is seen as a potential contender for the 2028 presidential election.
If she runs for president, this will undoubtedly become a major campaign problem for her.
The bonuses reportedly came to light when Michigan State Police unions filed an ethics complaint about the bonus given to MSP Director Col. James Grady. This revelation has sparked a broader debate about transparency and accountability in state government spending.
A Whitmer spokeswoman described the bonuses as going to “unclassified” employees, but critics argue that this classification does not justify the use of taxpayer funds for what they perceive as political favors.
