LANSING, Mich. (WZMQ) – State Representative Parker Fairbairn says a recent leadership summit in Washington, D.C., gave Michigan House Republicans the opportunity to advocate for regional priorities and strengthen relationships with federal officials.
Roughly 40 Republican lawmakers attended the summit at the White House, where they met with federal cabinet leaders and trade representatives to discuss economic development and policy coordination.
Fairbairn said one of the most significant conversations centered on the future of mining in the Upper Peninsula.
“If you look at the U.P., especially on the west end, we have some of the richest nickel ore bodies on the planet, and we’re not tapping into that,” Fairbairn said.
He said federal trade officials showed interest in the region’s mineral resources and potential for economic growth, noting mining has historically played a major role in the Upper Peninsula’s economy.
The trip also included meetings with U.P. Congressman Jack Bergman, which Fairbairn said helped strengthen communication between state and federal leaders.
“How can we work with the administration and the feds on policies that are good for both the state of Michigan and for us and then all of America… but do it in a way that’s synergized?” Fairbairn said.
Fairbairn acknowledged some residents feel disconnected from federal decision-makers but said the meetings reassured him that national leaders remain focused on local concerns.
“We’re all human at the end of the day, and we’re trying to do what’s best for our districts. For these folks, it’s America. For me, it’s Northern Michigan in the Upper Peninsula,” he said.
Looking ahead, Fairbairn said House Republicans plan to focus on lowering energy costs, reducing health care expenses and exploring property tax reforms as state lawmakers begin negotiating Michigan’s next budget.
He also highlighted previous budget negotiations that increased road funding across the state, including additional investments for Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.
Fairbairn said unity among Upper Peninsula lawmakers has helped amplify regional priorities in Lansing.
“I think we’ve had a fairly unified voice in the U.P., which has been really beneficial,” Fairbairn said. “We’re all singing the same song, and it’s beneficial to our northern areas to do that.”
