Show Notes: China Is Here, Michigan

the mighty humanzee
By The Mighty Humanzee

Link Back to LIVE Stream

The World Economic Forum is calling for more direct action to end the pending food crisis.  Amazing how that is timed with Oregon and Idaho water restrictions and Michigan Avian Flu crisis.  Want fries with the grasshopper burger?

Another CCP Researcher From Wuhan Caught Smuggling

https://davebondy.locals.com/post/7003430/wuhan-researcher-arrested-in-detroit-for-smuggling-biological-materials-to-university-of-michigan

Chengxuan Han, a researcher from Wuhan, China, was reportedly arrested in Detroit on charges of attempting to smuggle biological materials intended for transfer to the University of Michigan. This incident raises concerns about the unauthorized movement of potentially dangerous biological agents and foreign espionage within academic institutions.

Upon arrival in the U.S. on a J-1 visa, Han was interviewed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers and allegedly lied about the nature of the packages and the materials she had shipped. Authorities say they discovered that Han had deleted data from her electronic device three days before entering the country. During a subsequent interview with the FBI, Han admitted to sending the materials and providing false information to CBP agents.

Federal charges have been filed against the researcher. This case underscores national security implications related to the international exchange of scientific personnel and materials, particularly concerning potential dual-use biological substances.

Jian, It’s Over Girl

Last Two Other CCP Researchers from U of M were apprehended while attempting to smuggle in a bio-weapon that could be used to cause crop blight.
 

Here’s Some Questions.  What Materials Do You Need to Send Via Air Mail From China?  We Don’t have Earthworms and Bats in the US?

 

Illegals

MEDC, Marshall and Ford: NDAs Helped Keep Locals In the Dark

Snapshots: Marshall - Southern Michigan's Cutest Town — Miles 2 Go

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/marshall-residents-tell-house-oversight-state-sold-out-small-town-charm-for-ford-corporate-welfare-project/

Residents of Marshall, Michigan, testified before a state House oversight committee, expressing frustration that non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) and a lack of transparency from state economic officials (MEDC) kept them in the dark about the proposed Ford battery plant project. They feel the state prioritized the corporate deal over local interests.

Residents described feeling blindsided by the scale and implications of the project, which they believe threatens the “small town charm” and character of their community. They argue that the state’s pursuit of the project, involving significant incentives (“corporate welfare”), came at the expense of local input and concerns.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, who approved the massive taxpayer funded corporate welfare giveaway, claim the project is vital to the state’s future. The Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve fund allocated $210 million toward development, while a 15-year Renaissance Zone will exempt Ford from nearly all local property taxes.

However, residents claim they were blindsided and that the state employed secrecy, intimidation, and public funds to transform their small town without their consent.

“The state of Michigan used taxpayer money to destroy the very community it claims to protect,” said Glenn Kowalske, the Marshall Township treasurer. “Worse, it did so in secret through NDAs, backroom planning, and legal intimidation.”

 

 

Public can’t know cost, details of ‘critical’ security project at Michigan Capitol

William Kandler in the capitol

Michigan State Capitol Commission Chair William Kandler

Problem is, you start chipping away at information, pretty soon all the information is out there,” Kandler said, noting that while he was glad reporters were “being suspicious” of how taxpayer funds were being utilized, “we have to be responsible.”

https://www.bridgemi.com/michigan-government/panel-public-cant-know-cost-details-critical-security-project-michigan-capitol

The commission publicly approved major security upgrades in 2021 and 2023, banning openly carried guns at the Capitol and installing metal detectors to scan for weapons at public entrances.

But this time around, the commission cannot share the scope of the new security project, when the approved upgrades will begin or the overall cost of the project, Kandler repeatedly told reporters.

He said only that the changes would impact the building’s interior and “take some time to implement.”

He also suggested that House and Senate leaders — as well as Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office — are aware of the pending changes and are “the people who most likely would be protected by what we’re talking about.”

The offices of Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, and the governor did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

In declining to provide any public information about the security project, Kandler said he was acting in line with advice from the commission’s legal counsel, the Department of Attorney General, which also did not immediately respond to a Bridge request for comment.

 

 

 

Palantir – We’re Not A Data Company But We Read and Use Data

 

 

No More Mr Plow for Ann Arbor – EV Snow Removal

https://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/news/snowplows-stall-full-ev-adoption-in-ann-arbor-fleet

Ann Arbor’s goal of transitioning its entire municipal vehicle fleet to electric vehicles (EVs) is reportedly being hindered by the lack of suitable electric snowplows. The specific and demanding requirements of heavy-duty snow removal equipment pose a challenge for current EV technology.

While the city has made progress in electrifying other parts of its fleet, finding adequately powerful and reliable electric alternatives for snowplows remains a hurdle. Factors like battery capacity needed for prolonged heavy work in cold weather are significant considerations.

The situation in Ann Arbor illustrates a practical difficulty in achieving full fleet electrification, particularly for specialized vehicles with high power demands. It highlights areas where EV technology or available models may still lag behind traditional internal combustion engine vehicles.

SCOTUS To Hear Election Illinois’ Ballot-counting Practice Case

https://www.mifairelections.org/post/scotus-decides-to-hear-election-case-thanks-to-amicus-briefs-from-mfei-and-others?cid=7d5503e1-b847-4fa1-8ec6-244bd936fcde

The Supreme Court has agreed to hear an election case concerning ballot-counting practices in Illinois. The decision to take up the case was influenced, in part, by amicus briefs filed by organizations like Michigan Fair Elections, among others.

The case likely involves legal challenges to specific procedures or deadlines related to how ballots are counted in Illinois elections. The Supreme Court’s agreement to hear it indicates the legal questions raised are considered significant, potentially impacting election administration beyond Illinois.

The involvement of election integrity groups filing amicus briefs underscores the broader interest in the case’s outcome. The ruling could set precedents for election processes across the country, particularly concerning the handling of absentee or mail-in ballots.

Sheriff Dar Leaf: Dominion CEO Perjury

https://joehoft.com/breaking-exclusive-sheriff-dar-leaf-shows-how-dominions-ceo-committed-perjury-got-caught-and-targeted-tina-peters/

Sheriff Dar Leaf reportedly presents information he claims demonstrates that the CEO of Dominion Voting Systems committed perjury. The article suggests Leaf believes he has evidence proving the CEO made false statements under oath.

The piece links this alleged perjury to actions taken against Tina Peters, a former Colorado election official who faced charges related to election equipment. Leaf suggests the CEO’s actions were discovered and subsequently led to Peters being targeted.

This report continues Sheriff Leaf’s prominent role in questioning the 2020 election results and related matters. It focuses on his specific claims regarding the conduct of a Dominion executive within the context of ongoing legal and political disputes over election systems and security.

 

 

Trust The Climate Science Say Folder Face

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/braun-whitmer-should-do-hard-things-to-ensure-the-lights-stay-on/

Gubernatorial candidate Mike Braun is reportedly urging Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to make difficult decisions to ensure energy reliability and prevent power outages in the state. His comments focus on the need for robust energy infrastructure to keep “the lights on.”

“A single chip plant uses more steel than the Mackinac Bridge,” she claimed. “A dozen times more cement than Ford Field. And more miles of cable than Michigan’s coastline.”

Making cement and steel requires crazy amounts of electricity. And that’s leaving aside the voracious power demand from the rest of our industrial civilization. 

Braun’s message implies that current energy policies or lack of action are creating risks to the stability of the power grid. He is calling for measures that might be politically challenging but are necessary for energy security.

The article reflects political debate over Michigan’s energy future, particularly the balance between transitioning to renewables and maintaining the reliability of the existing grid, often fueled by fossil fuels. Braun’s stance positions him as prioritizing energy reliability and potentially criticizing current approaches.

 

Remember The Barefoot Doctors of Climate Change – Rep. Cavitt: Senate budget dedicates millions to ‘environmental justice communities

Rep. Cam Cavitt, R-Cheboygan, is sounding the alarm over what he calls “ideological carve-outs” buried in the Michigan Senate’s proposed 2026 budget for the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.

Cavitt said while the Senate deserves limited credit for trimming EGLE’s overall budget by $4 million, the plan still advances progressive priorities under the radar. The proposed $1.034 billion budget includes $10 million for electric vehicle charging stations and $5 million for water disaster relief, 40% of which is designated for “environmental justice communities.”

“The Senate fractionally reduced the size and scope of EGLE, and I give them credit for that,” Cavitt said. “Almost everywhere else, they just tacked on 3% and continued the same path of financial mismanagement we’ve been on for nearly a decade.”

Cavitt’s strongest criticism was aimed at funding environmental justice, which he said creates special treatment based on unclear political standards.

“A community facing disaster shouldn’t have to meet a set of liberal ‘environmental justice’ guidelines in order to qualify for help,” he said. “In Northern Michigan, it doesn’t matter where you call home; we answer the call during an emergency.”

 

 

Who Do The Universities Prefer, In-State Students or Foreign Students who pay full out of state tuition?

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/msu-urges-foreign-students-not-to-leave-country-amid-rash-of-alleged-crimes-by-u-m-chinese-students/

Michigan State University (MSU) has reportedly issued guidance urging foreign students not to leave the country, seemingly in response to a series of alleged crimes involving Chinese students at the University of Michigan (U of M). This action follows concerns raised by the incidents.

MSU’s message aims to reassure its international student population amidst negative attention generated by the alleged criminal activities at a different institution. The guidance is likely intended to prevent unnecessary departures or anxiety among foreign students at MSU.

MSU is worried that the US finally enforcing it’s laws are going to spook the highly sensitive international students, endangering MSU’s wallet.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the U.S. State Department will work with the Department of Homeland Security to aggressively revoke visas for Chinese students, including those with connections to the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical fields,” the statement read. “We will also revise visa criteria to enhance scrutiny of all future visa applications from the People’s Republic of China and Hong Kong.”

 

Impeach SoS Benson

https://www.themidwesterner.news/2025/06/rep-desana-introduces-impeachment-articles-against-secretary-of-state-jocelyn-benson/

State Representative Matt Maddock (the URL path indicates Rep. Desana, but Maddock is the sponsor according to the article) has formally introduced articles of impeachment against Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. The articles list grievances related to Benson’s conduct in office.

The impeachment attempt is based on accusations related to Benson’s handling of election administration, compliance with legal requests (like subpoenas), or other perceived misuses of her office. This move represents a significant escalation of political conflict targeting the Secretary of State.

Introducing articles of impeachment is a procedural step to initiate a process that could potentially lead to removal from office, although it requires significant support within the state legislature. The action signals strong opposition to Benson’s policies and actions from certain political factions.

House Resolution 118 outlines three articles of impeachment alleging that Benson overstepped her legal authority, undermined election procedures, and manipulated the administration of elections. DeSana noted that Michigan courts have ruled against Benson on at least seven occasions.

“Even Secretary Benson’s lawyer has stated in open court that the Secretary will obey only the laws that she deems constitutional or that she agrees with,” he said.

Key allegations include Benson’s unilateral decision to ban open carry within 100 feet of polling places on Election Day, which DeSana called “a clear violation of our U.S. Constitution” and her issuance of a “presumption of validity” for absentee ballot signatures, which he says undermines statutory election safeguards.

 

 

MI House Rs File Lawsuit Against Sos Benson

https://michiganadvance.com/briefs/house-republicans-file-lawsuit-against-michigans-secretary-of-state-over-subpoena-fight/

House Republicans in Michigan have filed a lawsuit against Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson stemming from her refusal to fully comply with legislative subpoenas. The lawsuit seeks to compel Benson’s office to provide specific documents requested by the House.

The legal action is a direct result of the ongoing dispute between the Republican-led legislative body and the Secretary of State over access to information, likely related to election administration or procedures. The House Republicans argue that Benson is unlawfully withholding materials they are entitled to review.

This lawsuit represents an escalation of the power struggle between the legislative and executive branches in Michigan. It seeks judicial intervention to resolve the dispute over the scope of legislative oversight and the Secretary of State’s obligations regarding document disclosure.

 

 

Federal Pardons For Michigan Electors

https://michiganadvance.com/briefs/report-doj-pardon-attorney-has-clemency-plans-for-michigan-2020-gop-false-electors/

A report indicates that an attorney within the Department of Justice’s Pardon Office is developing clemency plans that could potentially include individuals involved as “false electors” for the Republican Party in Michigan during the 2020 election. These individuals are facing state-level charges related to their actions.

The potential clemency actions would originate from the federal level, possibly through presidential pardons or commutations, despite the charges being brought by the State of Michigan. This highlights the complex interplay between state and federal legal systems.

The report suggests that plans are being formulated to offer clemency to those who participated as alternate electors in states like Michigan, signaling potential federal intervention in cases stemming from efforts to challenge the 2020 election results.

Despite The State Being At Fault For Poor Education, Just Tax the Rich

Joshua Lunger with Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce discusses zoning reform.

https://michiganadvance.com/2025/06/09/michigan-proposal-to-tax-the-rich-fund-schools-raises-questions-with-business-groups/

A proposal in Michigan to increase taxes on wealthy individuals or high earners as a means to boost funding for public schools is generating debate and criticism from business groups. Proponents argue this is a necessary step to address perceived underfunding of education.

Business organizations and opponents of the proposal raise concerns about the potential economic impact of higher taxes on investment, job creation, and whether it would truly solve educational challenges. They question the effectiveness and fairness of the tax structure.

The debate highlights differing views on how to fund public services and address educational disparities in Michigan. The proposal reflects a common political strategy to target higher earners for increased tax revenue to support social programs.

 

 

UoM: Dismantles Undercover Operations

https://www.freep.com/story/news/education/2025/06/09/university-michigan-removing-plainclothes-security-officers/84111789007/

The University of Michigan (U of M) is reportedly discontinuing its use of plainclothes or undercover security officers on campus. This decision marks a change in the university’s approach to campus safety and security operations.

The move follows discussions or reviews concerning the role and practices of security personnel. Dismantling the undercover operation likely aims to increase transparency in campus policing and potentially address concerns raised by students or staff about unmarked security presence.

This change affects how security is maintained on the large university campus. It indicates a shift towards more visible security personnel or alternative safety strategies, moving away from covert surveillance methods.

Anthropic CEO Against 10 Year Ban

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/06/in-10-years-all-bets-are-off-anthropic-ceo-opposes-decade-long-freeze-on-state-ai-laws/

Dario Amodei, the CEO of AI company Anthropic, has expressed opposition to proposals for a decade-long freeze on state-level AI regulations. While acknowledging the potential risks of advanced AI, he argues against a complete moratorium on state laws for such an extended period.

Amodei believes that a 10-year pause is too long given the rapid pace of AI development and the potential need for timely regulatory responses to emerging issues. His stance suggests a preference for a more flexible or iterative approach to AI governance.

His comments, particularly the phrase “in 10 years, all bets are off,” indicate a view that the field could change dramatically in that timeframe, making a long regulatory freeze potentially counterproductive or insufficient. He is advocating for a regulatory approach that can adapt to AI’s evolution.

Inside DOGE At VA?

https://www.propublica.org/article/trump-doge-veterans-affairs-ai-contracts-health-care

A ProPublica investigation delves into contracts and initiatives involving artificial intelligence within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) during the Trump administration, particularly highlighting connections to individuals associated with “Doge” or the broader cryptocurrency/tech sphere. The article examines how these connections influenced VA tech procurement.

The report scrutinizes the awarding of AI-related contracts at the VA, questioning the rationale, transparency, and effectiveness of projects linked to individuals who may lack traditional healthcare or government contracting backgrounds but have ties to the tech or crypto world. The term “Doge” might relate to individuals known for involvement with the Dogecoin cryptocurrency or related communities.

The investigation raises concerns about potential cronyism, conflicts of interest, and the suitability of certain tech initiatives for improving healthcare delivery to veterans. It focuses on the influence of specific tech personalities and their companies on government technology projects.

OBBB Cuts Back Biden Restrictions on CO2 Emissions

https://arstechnica.com/cars/2025/06/gop-intensifies-war-against-evs-and-efficient-cars/

The article reports that Republicans are intensifying efforts against policies promoting electric vehicles (EVs) and more fuel-efficient cars. This includes legislative or regulatory actions aimed at rolling back or weakening restrictions on CO2 emissions implemented under the Biden administration.

The pushback involves challenging emissions standards and fuel economy mandates that incentivize the production and adoption of EVs. Republicans argue these regulations are burdensome to automakers and consumers, potentially limiting consumer choice or increasing vehicle costs.

This political conflict highlights the deep divide over climate policy and the future of the automotive industry. Efforts to roll back Biden-era environmental regulations signal a desire to slow the transition away from internal combustion engine vehicles.

Gas Powered Data Center, No Good?

https://insideclimatenews.org/news/05062025/texas-data-center-gas-power-plants/

The article discusses plans for a large data center in Texas that intends to use dedicated natural gas power plants to meet its immense energy needs. This approach is drawing scrutiny due to concerns about its environmental impact compared to powering data centers with renewable energy.

Data centers are incredibly energy-intensive facilities, and their power source significantly impacts their carbon footprint. Using natural gas plants, while reliable, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, conflicting with goals for decarbonizing the tech industry.

Critics argue that despite Texas’s abundant renewable resources, choosing dedicated fossil fuel plants for a new, large data center is a step backward for climate goals. The project highlights the challenges of powering rapidly growing digital infrastructure sustainably.

Re Ted Cruz: You Lose Broadband if you Regulate AI

https://arstechnica.com/tech-policy/2025/06/ted-cruz-bill-states-that-regulate-ai-will-cut-out-42b-broadband-fund/

Senator Ted Cruz has proposed legislation that would penalize states that enact their own regulations on artificial intelligence by potentially cutting them off from a $42 billion federal broadband funding program. The bill links state AI regulation to eligibility for internet infrastructure grants.

The proposal appears aimed at preventing a patchwork of state-level AI regulations, which could create compliance challenges for tech companies operating nationwide. Cruz’s approach uses federal funding as leverage to push for a unified or less regulated approach to AI policy at the state level.

Critics are likely to argue that withholding crucial broadband funds is an overreach of federal power and hinders states’ abilities to address AI-related concerns within their borders. The bill highlights the intense federal debate over who should regulate AI and how.

I like my AI Shaken, Not Stirred

https://arstechnica.com/ai/2025/06/anthropic-releases-custom-ai-chatbot-for-classified-spy-work/

Anthropic, an AI safety and research company, has reportedly developed and released a specialized AI chatbot designed for use in classified intelligence work. This version is tailored to handle sensitive information and operate within secure government environments.

The development signals a move by AI companies to create bespoke, secure versions of their models for specific high-stakes sectors like national security. The chatbot is likely designed with enhanced safety features, access controls, and potentially operates on isolated networks.

Offering AI tools for classified operations highlights the increasing integration of advanced AI into government and intelligence functions. It underscores the efforts to apply AI’s capabilities to complex analytical tasks while attempting to mitigate the inherent security risks of large language models in sensitive contexts.

Google Breakup? Licensing Google’s Search Index

https://arstechnica.com/google/2025/06/googles-nightmare-how-a-search-spin-off-could-remake-the-web/

Google might be forced to license its core search index to other companies, possibly stemming from antitrust pressure or a regulatory mandate. This outcome is framed as a significant threat or “nightmare” for Google’s business model.

Google’s search index, the massive database of web content it has compiled, is central to its dominance in online search. If forced to license it, other companies could build competing search engines or AI products without having to replicate Google’s decades of data collection and processing.

This hypothetical situation could fundamentally alter the competitive landscape of the internet, potentially allowing new players to challenge Google’s search monopoly and “remake the web” by fostering greater competition in how users access online information. It is discussed as a potential outcome of intensified regulatory scrutiny.

 

 

Darth Nessel is Jacked: First Lawsuit Against Big Oil for Heatwave

https://insideclimatenews.org/news/05062025/the-estate-of-a-woman-who-died-in-the-2021-pacific-northwest-heat-dome-sues-big-oil-for-wrongful-death/

The article reports on a landmark lawsuit filed by the estate of a woman who died during the 2021 Pacific Northwest heatwave. The lawsuit targets major oil companies, alleging wrongful death due to their contribution to climate change which exacerbated the deadly heat dome event.

This case represents one of the first instances where a direct link is being legally argued between the emissions from specific fossil fuel companies and a death attributed to a climate-related extreme weather event. It seeks to hold these companies financially liable for climate impacts.

The lawsuit leverages climate science connecting greenhouse gas emissions to rising global temperatures and more frequent extreme heat events. It is a significant development in climate change litigation, attempting to assign direct legal responsibility for specific climate impacts. (Note: The article focuses on a lawsuit by an estate, not Michigan AG Nessel.)

Mundy Project MUST Proceed Because all the other ones were so successful

A sign that says "No Megasite."

https://www.bridgemi.com/business-watch/whitmers-semiconductor-dreams-near-flint-become-nightmare-neighbors

The article discusses community opposition and challenges facing a proposed semiconductor project near Flint, Michigan, specifically in Mundy Township. The project, part of Governor Whitmer’s efforts to attract high-tech manufacturing, is causing significant concern among local residents.

Neighbors are reportedly experiencing a “nightmare” due to the project’s potential impact on their properties, environment, and quality of life. Concerns include issues like noise, traffic, environmental changes, and the use of eminent domain.

The piece highlights the local resistance encountered by large state-backed industrial projects. It underscores the difficulties in implementing ambitious economic development plans when they clash with existing communities and residential areas. The title is sarcastic, referencing past project controversies.

 

 

Leave a Reply