As we head into primary season, Adrian Hemond and John Sellek join us for an election update! We talk about the macro-political environment in Michigan, nominees, ballot initiatives, and much more.

About our guests:

Adrian Hemond: is a seasoned political professional with a broad range of experience and expertise. A former political science instructor at Saginaw Valley State University, Hemond served as a lobbyist from 2007 to 2012, specializing in appropriations, local government, regulatory affairs, and procurement. Prior to lobbying, Hemond was lead staff to the Michigan House Appropriations Committee under then Chairman Rep. George Cushingberry, Jr. (D-Detroit), as well as staff to State Rep. Marsha Cheeks (D-Detroit). He is also a former account executive with Energy Systems Group (ESG), an energy performance contractor. Most recently, Hemond was Chief of Staff to the Michigan House Democratic Leader. Hemond holds a B.A. and an M.A. from Michigan State University, both in political science. In his spare time he is an avid traveler and reader of history, as well as a middling basketball player. Born in Detroit, he resides in Mason with his wife.

John Sellek: is CEO of Harbor Strategic, a public affairs and PR firm with offices in Lansing and S.E. Michigan. Using experiences gained from working for two Michigan speakers of the House, a governor’s policy shop, two state attorneys general and several presidential and gubernatorial campaigns, John helps his corporate, non-profit and political clients navigate the intersection of policy, politics and the media. You can find him at harborstrategic.com.

Get to know Michigan’s new budget director, Chris Harkins, and see how he’s transitioning into this new role. Hear about what the SBO is doing to address one-time vs. long-term budget recommendations, pre-COVID structural issues, sustainability for road funding, and concerns after budget negotiations wrap up. Director Harkins will also discuss providing mental health support, attracting new mental health providers, and Michigan’s new Infrastructure Office.

KJL Partner Andy Leavitt sits down to talk with Senate Minority Leader Jim Ananich. Join them for a conversation on 2022: upcoming races, new district maps, budget, and policy affecting Michigan families.

Michigan Senate Appropriations Committee Chair, Senator Stamas, and Minority Vice Chair, Senator Hertel, break down ARPA Funds, 2022 budget items, and more on A Key to the Inside.

KJL is please to provide you with our latest Podcast featuring Jim Holcomb, Senior Executive Vice President and General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber and John Walsh, President and CEO of the Michigan Manufacturers Association. Two leading organizations representing Michigan’s business community.

KJL Partners Stephanie Johnson and Ron Khoury speak with Jim and John about Michigan’s post COVID economic recovery, challenges to the current job market and issues effecting state government.

Congressman John Moolenaar, Representing Michigan’s 4th District. After serving in the both the Michigan House of Representatives and Senate, he began his tenure in the U.S. Representatives in 2015.

State Budget Director Dave Massaron updates KJL on the state budget and recently passes federal funding.

Our first guest is newly appointed DHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel, discussing the priorities of the department, vaccine plans and budget priorities.