Rick Pluta
Rick Pluta is Senior Capitol Correspondent for the Michigan Public Radio Network. He has been covering Michigan’s Capitol, government, and politics since 1987. His journalism background includes stints with UPI, The Elizabeth (NJ) Daily Journal, The (Pontiac, MI) Oakland Press, and WJR. He is also a lifelong public radio listener.
Rick was one of the first Michigan political reporters to write about “pay-to-play” fundraising, and the controversies surrounding recognition of same-sex relationships. He broke the news that Gov. John Engler was planning a huge juvenile justice overhaul that included adult-time-for-adult-crime sentencing, and has continued to report since then on the effects of that policy decision.
He co-hosted the weekly segment “It’s Just Politics” on Michigan Radio with Zoe Clark.
Rick is fascinated by the game of politics, and the grand plans and human foibles that go into policy-making. You will never find him ice-fishing.
Follow him on Twitter at @rickpluta
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Abortion access has declined dramatically nationwide, but many states have further protected abortion by enacting "shield laws," allocating funding, stockpiling medication and repealing old laws. -
In 2023, a record number of states have passed rules or legislation to eliminate youth gender-affirming care, but a record number of states have also moved to protect care for trans youth and adults. -
Michigan ex-Gov. Rick Snyder and a former Flint public works director have each been charged with two misdemeanor counts of willful neglect of duty in connection with the Flint water crisis.
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Democrats say it doesn't go far enough. Republicans say it goes too far. After armed protests in Lansing and a violent riot in D.C., Michigan's Capitol bans open carry, joining a majority of states. -
Days after Rep. Cynthia Johnson was harassed for her criticism of Rudy Giuliani, Michigan Republicans removed her from committee posts for sharing what they called a threatening video on Facebook. -
Michigan's top Republican lawmakers are reportedly headed to the White House Friday. Trump's campaign is trying to challenge votes from heavily Democratic parts of the state without success in court.
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Florida and Alabama are seeing rapid increases in coronavirus cases, which experts link to the states' reopening dates. But Michigan's case numbers are dropping — meaning schools can reopen this fall.
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In a reverse decision, the judges say that barber Karl Manke, who refused to close his shop in defiance of Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's shutdown order, must shutter. -
Michigan's governor has started lifting restrictions but critics say not fast enough. Officials worry armed protesters will refuse to follow safety measures when they gather at the Capitol Thursday.
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Democrats chose Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to give the English response to the State of the Union Address. But in Michigan, some wonder if she can live up to expectations.
