State Rep. Gina Johnsen today joined calls to withhold state funding from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation until meaningful oversight is in place. It is a rare point of agreement with Attorney General Dana Nessel despite the deep partisan divides in Lansing.

“It is not often that I see eye to eye with Attorney General Nessel, but on this point I do,” said Johnsen, R Portland. “The responsible use of our tax dollars must be paramount. Any agency that plays fast and loose with the rules should face serious consequences before they see another dime.”

Nessel’s stance comes as her office investigates a $20-million grant awarded to Detroit political activist Fey Beydoun. According to The Detroit News, grant funds intended for a business accelerator were instead spent on a $4,500 coffee maker, an $11,000 ticket to Budapest, and other lavish purchases.

“For years, my colleagues and I have raised concerns about how the MEDC operates,” Johnsen said. “When families in my district are scraping to afford groceries and gas, it is outrageous for the state to bankroll luxury coffee makers and international vacations. Whether you are a Republican or a Democrat, this is unacceptable. We may not agree on much in Lansing, but we should all agree on this. The MEDC should not get another penny until there is real oversight and accountability.”

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