State Rep. John Roth responded to Governor Whitmer’s last State of the Union speech, highlighting the need to address Michigan’s literacy crisis and the importance of affordable housing in the state. 

“I’m very concerned for the next generation of Michiganders,” said Roth (R-Interlochen). “The test scores show that our children desperately need our help, and right now we’re failing them. In eight years we went from 35^th to 44^th in the nation for fourth-grade literacy. Since we passed the Read by Grade Three law in 2016, Democrats fought us every step of the way and in 2023, Governor Whitmer signed to repeal it entirely. Where did that get us? She has had eight years to get this right, and instead she has us going in the wrong direction. But that’s where we are, we need to look at where we need to be. I look forward to working with her to turn it around.  Literacy is too important to waste time fighting. Let’s get this done.” 

Roth continued by stressing the need for affordable housing in the state. 

“Home ownership is vital to a stable economy and for families throughout Northern Michigan,” Roth said. “I’m glad the governor recognizes housing affordability as one of our most pressing issues. It is difficult for families when their commute is so long because they can’t find affordable housing in the city where they work. While some of the Governor’s ideas have merit, others won’t fly. I want the governor to work with us in the House to deliver a sensible plan that will actually help the people of Michigan.”