Waterford Today

Matt Maddock, House Representative of Michigan, said Democratic budget proposals have dramatically increased spending and taxes without corresponding income growth for residents. The statement was made on X.

"When I got here 7 yrs ago, the state budget was 56 billion," said Maddock, State Representative from Michigan. "Today the Michigan Democrats want to spend 86 billion. And increase property & income tax. Have you doubled your income in 7 years?"

In May 2025, Michigan lawmakers engaged in a dispute over the proposed $86 billion state budget. The Republican-led House urged Senate Democrats to retract their version amid a projected $320 million revenue shortfall. According to Michigan Radio, the House passed a resolution opposing the Senate plan, arguing it was fiscally unsustainable given declining revenues. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Democratic leaders defended the proposal, citing investments in infrastructure and education as essential for long-term growth.

Michigan’s proposed Fiscal Year 2024–25 state budget totals $81.5 billion, marking a substantial increase from prior years. A briefing by the House Fiscal Agency indicated that the budget includes $14.9 billion from the General Fund and $18.4 billion from the School Aid Fund, with federal sources covering about 41% of expenditures. This growth reflects expanded commitments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.

Between 2010 and 2023, Michigan's median household income rose by $3,105, a 4.56% increase, according to analysis by Neilsberg Research based on U.S. Census data. In contrast, the national median income grew by 7.68% over the same period, suggesting Michigan’s income growth has lagged behind the national average. These figures highlight broader concerns about wage stagnation and affordability in the state.

Maddock is a Republican representative in Michigan’s 51st House District and currently serves as Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee. According to the official House GOP website, he has pushed for deep budget cuts following revenue forecasts that project declining state income. He is known for his fiscally conservative positions and has criticized state spending increases proposed by Democratic leadership.