Governor Whitmer Celebrates Eight Balanced, Bipartisan Budgets, Strong State Fiscal Record

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 29, 2026 

Contact: press@michigan.gov 

Governor Whitmer Celebrates Eight Balanced, Bipartisan Budgets, Strong State Fiscal Record

Since day one of her administration, Governor Whitmer has more than tripled the state reserves and upgraded Michigan’s credit rating, making big improvements to Michigan’s finances

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Whitmer celebrated the completion of eight balanced, bipartisan state budgets that have continuously improved upon the state’s fiscal record by increasing the rainy day fund, paying down long-term debt, and strengthening Michigan’s credit rating.  

“Responsible fiscal leadership has been a priority for me since day one,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “I’m proud to have signed eight balanced, bipartisan budgets that have continuously invested in our schools, grown our economy, and lowered costs for every Michigander. In addition, we’ve strengthened Michigan’s financial record by reducing our debt, raising our rainy day fund, and upgrading our credit score—all without raising taxes. As my time as governor comes to an end, I am proud to leave Michigan’s finances in a better place than where we found them. Let’s keep working together to finish strong and set Michigan up for an even brighter future.” 

Fiscally Responsible Leadership 

Since taking office, Governor Whitmer has prioritized responsible state government and usage of state finances. She has strengthened Michigan’s economy, reduced state debt, and prepared Michigan for a prosperous and financially secure future. Since taking office and through the end of her administration, Governor Whitmer will have: 

• Paid down more than $28 billion in long-term state debt. 

• More than tripled reserve balances in the Budget Stabilization Fund, SAF Rainy Day Fund, and other state reserves.  

• Created a new rainy day fund specifically for Michigan schools, to ensure continued support for educators and students. 

• Won credit rating upgrades from Fitch Ratings, a national financial institution, for the first time in nearly 10 years. 

• Made Michigan a standout state for investors with better than ever bond returns.  

• Signed 8 balanced, bipartisan budgets focused on the kitchen-table issues that matter most to working families, communities, and small businesses.  

• Paid off Michigan Public Schools Employees’ Retirement System debts early, freeing up $670 million to invest back in schools.  

• Established a $75 million new Public Safety Revenue Sharing to continue support for cities, villages, and townships across the state. 

###