McCall Hamilton Advocacy and Public Affairs

Updates About People

Rep. Joe Tate Announces Departure, Adds to Growing List of House Members Leaving

Update: Mar 21-Apr 3, 2026

Former Democratic House Speaker Joe Tate (Detroit) has announced he will not be seeking reelection to his State House seat in the upcoming election. His upcoming departure adds to the increasing number of 21 total State Representatives that are leaving their current positions.

Tate served as House Speaker during the Democratic trifecta in 2023-2024, when Democrats controlled the State House, Senate, and Governor’s office.

To see the list of departing members Rep. Tate will be joining, see our March 6 newsletter: Nearly 20% of State Representatives Are Relinquishing Their House Seats

State Seeks $23.7M Repayment as Gotion Challenges Default Determination

Update: Feb 7-20, 2026

Gotion, Inc., the developer of the proposed $2.36 billion electric vehicle battery plant near Big Rapids that was approved in 2022, is disputing The Michigan Strategic Funds’ efforts to recover $23.7 million in previously given grant money. The Michigan Strategic Fund issued a notice of default in September 2025, citing a lack of activity at the project site for three months. Recently, the Department of Attorney General weighed in and called for all Site Strategic Readiness Plan grant dollars given to the company to be repaid immediately.

In a letter to the state (first reported by Crain’s Detroit Business), Gotion asserted it is not in default under the grant agreement and instead said that project delays have occurred due to local opposition and legal challenges. The company claims that much of the funding has already been spent on buying land for the project and early construction. The only resolutions offered by Gotion included the township buying back the land for same amount that Gotion previously paid, or transferring the land to the state instead of repaying the grant funds.

We’re Hiring!

Update: Dec 6-31, 2025

McCall Hamilton is looking for a talented Office Manager to join our team in Lansing. This in-office role is perfect for someone who is organized, detail-oriented, and enjoys managing both office operations and client association services. Bookkeeping experience is a must!

If you know someone who would be a great fit, please send their name our way—or encourage them to send their resume and cover letter to abby@mccallhamilton.com!