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Interviews with news makers and discussion of topics important to Southwest Michigan. Subscribe to the podcast through Apple itunes and Google. Segments of interview are heard in WestSouthwest Brief during Morning Edition and All Things Considered

WestSouthwest June 18, 2018

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On WestSouthwest, we examine ballot issues, both the political implications and the process for getting initiatives before voters in Michigan. 

At least one issue will be on the ballot in Michigan this fall - a proposal to legalize marijuana for recreational purposes. But others, including one to change how legislative districts are drawn, could be decided in November. Western Michigan University Political Science Professor John Clark discusses how, in some cases, ballot issues can impact other races. 

How those initiatives get on the ballot is the subject of a new blog post from Citizens Research Council of Michigan president Eric Lupher. He says Michigan's "laissez-faire" system of proposing ballot proposals does not serve its citizens well. Lupher says Michigan should look at how other states review initiatives before signatures are collected. 

Gordon Evans became WMUK's Content Director in 2019 after more than 20 years as an anchor, host and reporter. A 1990 graduate of Michigan State, he began work at WMUK in 1996.
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