MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (WZMQ) – 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference opens with warning that Michigan is “in serious trouble”
The opening session of the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference focused less on celebration and more on concern over Michigan’s long-term trajectory.
Conference Chair Bob Riney, CEO of Henry Ford Health, and Sandy Baruah, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, opened the conference Tuesday by outlining a series of economic, educational, and demographic challenges they say have developed over decades.
“This is not the happy part of the conference,” Riney told attendees. “This is gonna be recognized and own, we have a problem part of the conference.”
Riney said many of the state’s struggles are the result of long-term trends, not the policies of any single administration or political party.
“We’re in serious trouble,” he said. “And it’s not serious trouble that has been happening over the last three years. In many cases, we’re on a 20, 25 year negative trajectory.”
During the presentation, organizers highlighted statistics they said show Michigan falling behind nationally in areas including per capita income, labor force participation, unemployment rankings, educational outcomes, population growth, and GDP growth.
Baruah emphasized that the challenges facing Michigan should not be viewed through a partisan lens.
“This is not a Democrat or Republican issue,” Baruah said. “This is a Michigan issue.”
This year’s conference theme is “Common Ground,” with organizers saying the goal is to encourage collaboration between leaders with different political and ideological perspectives.
Throughout the week, the conference will feature appearances from figures across the political spectrum, including former Vice President Mike Pence and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. Organizers also announced sessions featuring Michigan’s U.S. Senate candidates.
Riney said the state still has significant strengths, including its manufacturing base, research universities, engineering talent, natural resources, and quality of life.
“This is a state worth fighting for,” Riney said. “And it’s a state worth winning.”
The conference continues through Thursday on Mackinac Island with discussions focused on the economy, education, housing, infrastructure, and the 2026 election cycle.
