The Department of Political Science and Public Administration

Griffin Fall 2017 A publication for the Robert P. and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government The Griffin

Editors Rachael Schuit, ’16, M.A. ’17 Table of Contents Sarah Buckley, M.A. ’05

Contributing Writers Rachael Schuit, ’16, M.A. ’17 3 The Griffin Legacy Dan Digmann, M.A. ’15 Emeritus Professor James P. Hill recalls founding of Griffin Dr. James P. Hill Chair. Designer & Web Editor Sarah Buckley, M.A. ’05 4-5 Interview with Gary Randall Gary Randall reflects on four years as Griffin Chair. Videographer Rachael Schuit, ’16, M.A. ’17 6-7 CMU Appoints New Griffin Chair Printer David Rutledge seeks to inspire civility in government. CMU Printing Services 8 Interview with Craig Ruff Contact information College of Humanities and Social Craig Ruff served as the inaugural Griffin Chair at CMU. and Behavioral Sciences Anspach Hall 106 9-14 Featured Griffin Students and Alumni Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 Andrea LaFontaine Phone: 989-774-3341 Jeremy Rodgers Fax: 989-774-7106 Katie Conley Email: [email protected] Roy Maweja Web: www.chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin Megan Gill Maggie Dwan Trent Wolf

The Griffin is published by the College of 15-19 Featured Student Papers Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences Christian Bishop and the Department of Political Science and Public Administration at Central University. Jeremy Rodgers CMU, an AA/EO institution, provides equal Maggie Dwan opportunity to all persons, including minorities, females, veterans and individuals with disabilities (see cmich.edu/ocrie). Printed by CMU Printing Services. (9/17)

On the cover Past Griffin Endowed Chairs returned to campus in April to serve as panelists for the Spring 2017 Griffin Policy Forum. From left to right: Craig Ruff, Bill Ballenger, Sen. Gary Peters, Maxine Berman, and Gary Randall.

2 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin Legacy Emeritus Professor James P. Hill recalls the founding of the Robert P. and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government

Written by Dr. James P. Hill The Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government at Central Michigan University was created to encourage students and citizens in general to become active participants in our democracy. The Griffins were long-time public servants who wanted to encourage students at their alma mater to not just understand but try to take a leadership role in keeping our democracy strong. The idea was to bring government to Mount Pleasant rather than having Lansing or Washington being perceived as a remote place and not necessarily relevant to student lives. Selecting a chair who had strong ties to the political establishment, so that this experience—plus the contacts with other key political officials—would bring politics alive both in the classroom and in the public policy forums that the chair was expected to organize. Each semester, the Griffin Chair teaches a seminar style undergraduate class and organizes and hosts a forum on issues of importance to the campus and the state as a whole. The chair selection process involves approval of the Department of Political Science and Public Administration, the dean of the College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences, and the CMU Board of Trustees. Dr. James P. Hill

President Gerald R. Ford (left) attended a dinner and news conference at Central Michigan University in 1999 to honor the establishment of the Robert P. and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government. He is pictured here with Marjorie Griffin (center) and Sen. Robert P. Griffin (right).

Photo by Peggy Brisbane

2 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 3 Gary Randall was the fifth person to serve as the Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government at Central Michigan University.

Gary Randall reflects on four years as Griffin Chair

Gary Randall Gary Randall, the Legislative Clerk What do you want students to get out of in Michigan’s State House of the Griffin courses? Griffin Chair 2013-2017 Representatives, served as the Robert Gary: I want students to get a couple and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair of things. One, I want them to feel that Legislative Clerk, in American Government at Central Michigan House of Representatives our democratic process is alive and well. Michigan University from 2013 to 2017. While there is so much negativity about He taught two different courses each people out there who choose to be year during his time at CMU. In the politicians, that politicians really, for the fall he taught “Michigan Politics and most part, are good people, operating Elections,” and in the spring he taught with good motives, and wanting to do “Law and Politics in Michigan State Photo by Dan Digmann, M.A. 15 good things for the people of the state Government.” of Michigan. In a brief interview, Randall discussed the I think that our Griffin courses and our role of the chair, what he hopes students forums offer students an opportunity get out of the course, and advice he has to get a real life view of what those for the next Griffin Chair. people are like and often find out that

4 Fall 2017 | The Griffin Past Griffin Endowed Chairs returned to campus in April to serve as panelists for the Spring 2017 Griffin Policy Forum. Front Row: Sen. Gary Peters, Dean Pamela Gates, Maxine Berman, and Dr. Joyce Baugh. Second Row: Dr. David Jesuit, Dr. John Dinse, Dr. Sterling Johnson, Dr. James P. Hill, Dr. Lawrence Sych, and Craig Ruff. Back Row: Bill Ballenger, Dr. Cherie Strachan, and Gary Randall.

the image that you have before you That’s not only for the discussions What will you miss about being the Griffin have an opportunity to meet those that take place in class, but it’s also Chair? people might be totally wrong. That for the guests that we have. We have Gary: I think just the interaction with they’re not in it to get rich. They’re not in Democrats, Republicans, liberals, students. Obviously I’ve been around for it to feather their own nest but actually conservatives, and if there’s one thing a while and have spent over 40 years in are concerned about developing good that I hope students take away from the politics in Lansing. And, an opportunity public policy and doing what’s right Griffin classes and the Griffin forums is to perhaps share that with students for the people of the state of Michigan. that you need to be objective. You need and ignite, if you will, a little bit of fire, a So I think students have a unique to listen to all sides and then formulate desire to get involved in politics, a desire opportunity to see politics in practice. your opinions on what’s really good to really learn more about it. I think I’ll public policy and good for the people How do you incorporate different miss that. of Michigan. viewpoints from both both parties into the What advice do you have for the next course? What has been the best part about being Griffin Chair? the Griffin Chair? Gary: Well, we start out every semester Gary: Realize what a unique opportunity with kind of a blood oath, if you will, that Gary: I think it’s been extremely you have as the Griffin chair to ignite whatever your persuasion—Democrat rewarding to have students come back that fire in students who are interested or Republican or even if you have no and talk to me and say gosh it opened a in politics. partisan influence in your life—we’re whole new vista and allowed me to see going to speak openly and honestly and what the real live politicians think about See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for that we respect everyone’s position. how we should approach politics in the video interview with Gary Randall. state of Michigan. 4 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 5 David Rutledge named Griffin Endowed Chair CMU’s new Griffin Chair seeks to inspire civility in government

After more than 50 years, David Rutledge compromise between competing still remembers the humiliation. ideas,” said Rutledge, who represented residents from Ypsilanti and parts of A ninth-grader in Chattanooga, Washtenaw County. “Unless we elect Tennessee, Rutledge was at a drugstore ethical and principled public servants buying a ham sandwich for his boss at who understand the art of diplomacy the nearby barbershop where he shined and compromise, the public is likely to shoes on the weekends. remain disenchanted with our political “The manager approached me and said process.” that I couldn’t sit at the counter,” he said. Throughout his years in public service, “Before I could finish explaining that I Rutledge served in positions including had placed an order and was waiting Air Force captain, Superior like other people, he pushed me off the Township supervisor, Washtenaw stool, and I fell to the floor.” County Road Commission chair and It was the early 1960s, and the rules Washtenaw Community College trustee. banned black customers from the As a representative, Rutledge served counter. as minority vice chair on the military and veterans affairs committee as well “At that moment, I said to myself that as a member of the local government one day I want to be where the rules are committee and transportation and made, because if this is a rule, it’s wrong,” infrastructure committee. Rutledge said. “The events of that day David Rutledge gave birth to my dream of becoming an Today, appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder, elected public official.” he serves as a member of the Michigan Griffin Chair 2017-2020 Veterans Facility Authority, which is Rutledge recently completed his final charged with building and operating term representing Michigan’s 54th Former State Representative, high-quality living facilities for disabled Michigan’s 54th District District. This fall, he begins serving and elderly veterans. as Central Michigan University’s sixth Griffin Endowed Chair in American Rutledge took the time to answer Government. some questions about what it will take to improve civility in United States Written by Dan Digmann, MA ’15 The endowed position honors CMU government and what his Lansing alumni Sen. Robert P. Griffin, who colleagues say about CMU’s role in graduated in 1947, and Marjorie Griffin, shaping the political landscape. who graduated in 1944. The Griffin chair leads the university’s efforts to elevate What are common political awareness and activity among misunderstandings people have students, faculty and citizens. about how government works? Whether it’s 140-character Twitter rants People within government at all levels or 140-voice town hall chants, it’s easy are elected to create public policy for the to see the lack of civility that controls purpose of carrying out the principles the political climate throughout the that contribute to a free, secure and United States. Rutledge said that’s why prosperous America. Because there are it’s important for people to pay attention strongly held differing views of how to and get involved to make a difference. achieve these principles, the general public may misinterpret the results of the “Our government was created to have debate between competing ideas within checks and balances and to force government as gridlock. 6 Fall 2017 | The Griffin David Rutledge is the sixth person to serve as the Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government at Central Michigan University. He recently completed his final term as a state representative for Michigan’s 54th District.

How does the Griffin chair encourage and to prepare ethical political leaders vigilant and pay attention to the ebb people to care more about American to serve in Michigan. I was excited to and flow of the political climate, the politics? develop discussion ideas around topics character of our political leaders, and the with these objectives. quality of public policy being created Whether we care about the American locally and nationally. political process relates directly to Why is such a position so important how well we understand and interact today? What do Michigan’s political leaders with it. This CMU experience will be say about the value of the Griffin The Griffin Chair was endowed in 2000 an incubator for exploring current chair? to honor Sen. Robert and Marjorie and past policy initiatives and political Griffin. The idea was to create at the The Griffin Chair is held in very high campaigns at the local, state and federal university two courses that could serve esteem by members of the Michigan government levels. to increase political awareness and Legislature. I believe one of the reasons What inspired you to pursue CMU’s activity among students, faculty and the is the integrity and admiration of the Griffin Endowed Chair? general population. Given the lack of five previous Griffin chairs. Legislators civility and the polarization, extremism consider it a badge of honor to be During my tenure in the Legislature, I and demagoguery in today’s political invited by the Griffin chair to teach a was invited on several occasions by past climate, the program may now be class. Griffin Chair Gary Randall to teach his viewed by some as a visionary idea. I government class at CMU. As I prepared, believe it’s more important now than I learned that the class was created to ever to encourage young people to be stimulate students’ political involvement

6 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 7 Craig Ruff served as the inaugural Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government at Central Michigan University from 2000 to 2003.

“Several members of this group thought “I put students in some very specific Craig Ruff that I could be a candidate, and I legislative districts and asked them to Griffin Chair 2000-2003 campaigned for it cause I wanted it. So debate and spar, do a lot of research on Page in State legislature at age 17. I developed a syllabus, kind of arranged your topic. I like that hands on type of Worked for Governor William G. Milliken for the topics of public policy forums experience, at least I think that’s what for 10 years. Owned and Operated that I intended to host. I wanted it, and I Public Sector Consultants in Lansing. the students enjoy. “ got it. And I was just the luckiest person When asked about the greatest benefits on earth.” Craig Ruff served as the first Griffin Chair of the Griffin courses for students, Ruff at CMU, and he returned for an April Ruff recalled the contentious Bush and cited real world experience. “It’s quite forum on civility. He spoke about his Gore election in 2000, his first year different to hear from somebody who’s experiences at CMU and how his time as teaching the course. He picked up actually practiced politics and that art Chair altered the course of his career. extra ballots after the election from the of making policy, making law, and I Isabella County Clerk’s office to take to “Central Michigan University and its think students really appreciate having class. students changed my life all for the that dynamic tension between the theoretical and the practical.” good. It was just a giant adventure in “I let the students in class try to punch coaching, inspiring, and sometimes the holes and then turn them around The Griffin course inspired a love of vexing students, asking tough questions. to see which chads were still hanging. It teaching for Ruff. After his time as Griffin They just delighted me,” said Ruff. was a great experiment and it kind of it chair ended, he went on to teach at brought first hand to the students what Ruff was originally part of the advisory the Ford School of Public Policy at the was going on in Florida.” counsel responsible for selecting the University of Michigan. He continues to teach a graduate seminar in public first Griffin Chair. One day he was asked Ruff also took students to Lansing with policy every year. not to attend a meeting and later found him so they could meet and interact out it was because the counsel thought with political leaders. The course was See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for he would be a good candidate for the run as a Mock Legislature when he was video interview with Craig Ruff. position. teaching. 8 Fall 2017 | The Griffin State Representative Andrea LaFontaine attends the bipartisan Gov. Rick Snyder greets State Representative Andrea LaFontaine during her “Grand Bargain” bill signing with Gov. Rick Snyder. last day in the legislature in December of 2016.

Andrea LaFontaine Andrea LaFontaine was a student in In discussing her career as a State the Griffin course under Griffin Chair Representative LaFontaine said, “It was 2009 Bachelor of Science Bill Ballenger. LaFontaine said the great because you feel like you’re a part Major: Political Science course taught her a lot about state of something bigger than you.” Minors: Legal Studies and Leadership government. Studies She also said the position made her “It taught me a lot in that your more open minded because she had to 2011 Master in Public Administration representatives are accessible. I consider the opinions of people in her Griffin Courses Taken: learned the importance of state level district. “Law and Policy in Michigan State government.” Government” When reflecting on the Griffin course LaFontaine also interned for a state and her political career, LaFontaine Republican State Representative senator while taking the Griffin course. said that the course helped her to District 32 2011-2016 There were also some things from the understand issues outside of textbooks course that helped when she served and that every decision made in as State Representative for District 32. government has a reaction somewhere. After unsuccessfully trying to persuade Critical thinking is the number one her mom to run for the seat, LaFontaine skill she gained from the Griffin course decided to run herself. and was able to utilize as a State Representative. When reflecting on the Griffin course in regards to her run for office, LaFontaine said that while there is nothing that can really prepare you for a campaign, the speakers who visited the class throughout the semester gave her the hope that she could run. There were also things from the course that helped her during her time of working in Lansing. “The class provided foundational knowledge about what services are available from state level government,” said LaFontaine.

8 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 9 Jeremy Rodgers Jeremy Rodgers describes his “I have definitely learned things about experience in the Griffin courses he has how to run a campaign or things about Major: History taken as positive. passing legislation that I didn’t know Minor: Political Science before that would be very helpful. “I think it’s been one of the most And talking to people and being able Griffin Courses Taken: practical Political Science classes I’ve had to ask people who have actually ran “Michigan Politics and Elections” and here at Central and it’s just been really “Law and Policy in Michigan State campaigns or campaigned themselves positive overall,” said Rodgers. Government” questions about what it’s like or what Rodgers said the speakers that are you would do in certain situations is Expected Graduation Date: December 2017 brought into the class help to aid in really helpful.” learning the practical side of the class. “They tell you about their experiences, See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for video interview with Jeremy Rodgers. what it’s like to write and pass legislation in the Michigan State House and also in the Senate, and it’s just really great practical experience.” Rodgers also likes the opportunity for debates that the speakers present. Another helpful component of the Griffin courses for Rodgers is the discussion on how to run a campaign and how to pass legislation. Rodgers says he hopes to run for office at some point and the knowledge he has obtained through the Griffin courses will benefit him in the future. Jeremy Rodgers with Ken Bone.

10 Fall 2017 | The Griffin Katie Conley, Staff Assistant for Senator Gary Peters.

Katie Conley Katie Conley took the Griffin course “I think it was really helpful for students regarding the passage of issues and on all sides to see both sides. It’s 2015 Bachelor of Science in said that it came at a unique time in her interesting to see how each person Political Science college career and was applicable to the describes an experience.” real world. Griffin Courses Taken: Conley said the Griffin course was one “Law and Policy In Michigan State “What we were discussing was what of the best courses she took while at Government” was going on. It felt real as opposed Central. to classes that were theoretical,” said Staff Assistant for After graduating from CMU in 2015, U.S. Senator Gary Peters Conley. Conley interned for the Macomb County Katie was an intern at RWC Advocacy Board of Commissioners. Lobbying firm during her senior year In the fall of 2015 Conley began working when she took the course. She said the in Washington D.C. for U.S. Senator Gary Griffin course helped her during her Peters and is currently a staff assistant in internship. his office, greeting constituents, taking “Everything was very applicable to phone calls from constituents, and me, enforcing what I was doing in my serving as the internship coordinator. internships.” “My favorite part of the job is having the The course’s emphasis on seeking out connection to Michigan when call,” said viewpoints different from a person’s Conley. own helped to see issues from different angles.

10 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 11 Roy Maweja

Major: Political Science with Concentration in International Relations

Griffin Courses Taken: “Law and Policy in Michigan State Government”

Graduation Date: May 2016

See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for video interview with Roy Maweja.

Roy Maweja, left.

Roy Maweja cites ones of his reasons Maweja hopes to work as an for taking a Griffin course as wanting to immigration officer for the Department know more about Michigan. of Homeland Security. “I’ve always wanted to know more about “I have experienced the things that the state I live in—what kind of policies they’re going through. I’m an immigrant and the constitution and the laws that to the United States, and I’ve been just affect Michigan by itself.” through the process. I feel like I could give back, and I think they need some Maweja likes that the class is about more very strong hardworking people who than just taking notes. have been in their experience.” “This class is more like a seminar class. Maweja says he would recommend this It’s not a class you go in and take class to other students because it may powerpoint notes. He (Gary Randall) help them to be more aware of events brings in very interesting and smart within the Michigan government as well people who have very valuable as how laws and policies are made in experience.” Michigan.

12 Fall 2017 | The Griffin Megan Gill, Deputy Legislative Director for Speaker Tom Leonard.

Megan Gill Megan Gill took both of the Griffin with people doing what you want to Courses because they were applied. do,” said Gill. 2013 Bachelor of Science Majors: Political Science and English “I heard they were some of the best Gill says the Griffin courses supplied her applied political science classes in the with institutional knowledge and she Griffin Courses Taken: program.” would encourage students to at least “Michigan Politics and Elections” and attend the Griffin forums if they cannot “Law and Policy in Michigan State Gill decided to take the second course take the courses right away. Government” because she liked the speakers who visited the first course and enjoyed Current Position: Gill also said that writing a campaign Deputy Legislative Director for seeing ways to get her foot in the door plan in the election class was very Speaker Tom Leonard in state government. useful. She was also able to get contacts from She is unsure if she will run for office the Griffin Chair while applying for jobs. in the future because she enjoys the behind the scenes work. “The best way to get your foot in the door in Lansing is to intern and connect

12 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 13 Maggie Dwan Trent Wolf

Public Administration Major 2015 Bachelor Science Majors: History and Political Science with Griffin Courses Taken: a Concentration in Public Administration “Law and Policy In Michigan State Government” Current Position: Legislative Assistant for Frank Liberati

Trent Wolf

When Trent Wolf first arrived at CMU, he “Without that class, without that wanted to be a teacher but changed his interaction, without the real world mind. examples and people coming into the class, there’s no way I would be sitting “I quickly somewhat realized that where I am today. There’s no way I wouldn’t fulfill the things I wanted to do would have met the people that I met.” in my career, and part of that being the Maggie Dwan state of the education system. As a result Wolf currently works as a Legislative Maggie Dwan has enjoyed her of that, I kind of transitioned into public Assistant for State Representative Frank experiences in the Griffin course policy, politics, public administration,” Liberati, which involves managing including hearing the opinions of other said Wolf. Liberati’s calendar, as well as answering constituent phone calls. Wolf also students in the course as well as hearing Wolf also recalled winning the Students assisted during Liberati’s 2016-re- from the different speakers who visit the Reinventing Michigan competition for election campaign. course. a paper he wrote with a friend about “For me personally, I love other creating a K-12 education system that “Very generally, staffers are problem people’s opinions. Learning from all of prepares students for college. solvers. Campaigners, people who work on campaigns, whether you’re a my classmates and Professor Randall, “It was like a 15-page paper. It was really campaign manager or a field director, especially, has been more thought- interesting. It was probably the first time you’re a problem solver in the most provoking than any other class I’ve taken I really got into public policy and how basic sense that anything can happen, due to the simple fact that everyone we can benefit people’s lives.” thinks how they think for specific anything can come up, and your job reasons,” said Dwan. In the fall of 2013 Wolf took the is to deal with it in the way that makes “Michigan Politics and Elections” class. your boss, obviously, look good.” Dwan also said that the class challenged He remembers former democratic State Wolf is not completely sure on whether her to think more about what her own Representative visiting the or not he will run for office in the future values are. While Dwan views herself as class and realizing he wanted to intern but did say that a great deal of state more conservative, she enjoys hearing for him. the views of Democrats and likes that representatives today are former staffers. the class incorporates viewpoints from After the class discussion was over, Wolf chased Hobbs down the hallway. See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for both sides. video interview with Trent Wolf. Dwan says the biggest benefits of the “I remember chasing after him and class are learning more about yourself being like, ‘Hey I won this competition and your viewpoints and hearing last year, and I’m really interested in having an internship in your office. I’m other opinions from the discussions Find us online and interactions with classmates and really looking for an opportunity.’ Three Professor Randall. weeks later I was in his office being View information about past and interviewed for an internship.” future Griffin Policy Forums on our Dwan would like to work on policy website. in the future and hopes to utilize the Wolf credits the Griffin course he took knowledge she gained from this course. as a large reason he has his current www.chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin position because the class allowed him See chsbs.cmich.edu/griffin for to network with people in politics and in video interview with Maggie Dwan. Lansing.

14 Fall 2017 | The Griffin Featured Student Papers The following student papers were selected by Griffin Chair Gary Randall from the 2016-17 academic school year to be featured in this edition of The Griffin.

American Dream: Dead or Alive? Written by Christian Bishop, PSC 301 Spring 2017 Throughout America’s history, there has been a concept generated by society that dictates what an acceptable standard of living is for the average citizen. That concept is known as the “American Dream.” Now this concept is quite subjective, and the definitions of what this dream actually is depends upon the individual and what stage they may be in their life. An even bigger determinant brought into question would be the social class of the individual. And the reason being is because wealth is a part of the American Dream. But one of the questions that is frequently asked is whether the “American Dream” is still alive and, if it is, can it still be achieved in today’s society? What is the definition of the American Dream and is it still “alive”? The definition of the American dream according to Merriam Webster is “a happy way of living that is thought of by many Americans as something that can be achieved by anyone in the U.S. especially by working hard and becoming successful.” However, the term was first used in 1931 by historian James Truslow Adams in his book Epic of America. The meaning from Adams novel does not differ greatly from the Webster’s definition, as it describes America as being the land of opportunity for everyone to live a fulfilling life. In the Declaration of Independence, we are granted the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. This essentially gives us freedom to live our lives within the legal parameters set by our government. It was most notable in the 20th century that the American Dream was a centralized and popular ideal. Most Americans saw it as earning an education, being employed, owning a home, raising a family, and then retiring with enough money to enjoy the remaining years of their lives. It was typically the mindset instilled in every American citizen. Well, of course, it wasn’t every American that had this same ideal, because the 20th century still involved the horrible practices of racism and discrimination against other racial groups. Although that is not one of the major topics to be discussed, it is important to acknowledge it as part of history. But, nonetheless, every American citizen has envisioned some form of an American Dream. In today’s world, the idea of the American Dream does not seem as realistic as it once as. The 21st century has been plagued by war, economic downfall, political turmoil, inflation, rising healthcare costs and many other issues. However, these things have always been a part of U.S. history, but it can be agreed that today’s issues are on a larger scale than before. The cost of living for many Americans has increased within recent years and their wages have not been able to keep up. Now keep in mind that is not the case for every American. As I stated in the premise, wealth plays a role in the conception of the American Dream. The three separate social classes— lower/working, middle, and upper class—each have different situations when dealing with the American Dream. Individuals who classify as lower class have incomes that are between about $23,000-$49,000. For the lower class, it is obvious that the amount of wealth and income is at the lowest level. And they are even faced with the threat of becoming poverty-stricken. But that is not to say that it is only this class of people who can become impoverished as it can happen to just about anyone. The American Dream for a lower class citizen is still achievable, but is quite a reach. With a low income and limited assets, it can be quite a challenge to make things happen, but they still can be put into works. But then again, and individual in the lower class could have a more simplistic American Dream. It could be as simple as just being able to put food on their table and being able to wake up the next morning, as tomorrow is never guaranteed. In this case, some people can be content with the little that they have, and their American Dream might just be having the basic necessities of life. For the middle class, the American Dream is more realistic and more achievable than that of the lower class. The income level for this group is at an estimate of $50,000 - $75,000. Aside, the number for income levels vary by year and by the source they come from. There have been discussions as to whether the middle class has become a thing of the past. The reasons for this include the wage gap between the income classes. Lastly, there is the upper class, in which these individuals earn incomes of six-figures or higher. The American Dream for these individuals is almost an everyday reality. Which could be an overstatement, but that is my opinion.

14 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 15 However, they are not exempt from the struggles that anyone else faces. It’s just that the wealth and assets they possess act as a “cushion” to shield them from the struggles of the common man. One thing I want to point out is that becoming a part of the upper class is not impossible, but it requires a great deal of work. A reference that I think relates to this concept is called the “Horatio Alger Myth.” This is a famous notion brought about by famous 19th century writer Horatio Alger. Alger made a statement that if an individual can “pull themselves up by their own bootstraps,” they can achieve anything no matter their social standing. The common belief today is that you practically have to be born into a wealthy family in order to receive it. What is the role of public policy? Public policy is defined as the regulations, laws, and standards that are set in place for citizens to follow. The government is the source of authority for public policy and has a significant amount of influence from society. Meaning that how society functions is taken into consideration when forming policies. As it relates to the American Dream, public policy is important because it serves as a guideline for controlling the economy and wealth distribution. Public policy ensures that citizens are being taken care of and have a system to follow. The areas of public policy that are involved are economic matters, such as taxes, and the social welfare. Taxes play a big part when talking about the American Dream because it involves the income of American citizens. What Do I Think of the American Dream? In my opinion, I believe that the American Dream is about becoming a better individual, achieving every goal you set forth, and helping the next person to achieve their goals. Advancement in all facets of life is what the dream is all about. My American Dream involves the elements of earning a higher education, having a high-paying and successful career, raising a family, and being able to retire and enjoy the remaining years of my life. However, my answer as to whether that dream is achievable is a partial yes. What I mean by a “partial yes” is that the dream is still achievable, but the way to earn it has changed in quite a few ways, and it is indeed harder to achieve. I think I speak for most of the generation of millennials and agree that educational debt is one of the many things that is making the American Dream more difficult to achieve. As college expenses see increases every year, financial freedom seems to drift away by the minute. And the worth of a college degree seems to lose its value as it has become a requirement to gain positions in entry level jobs. Also, the competition for these jobs has become more competitive because we are competing with people from all over the globe. That sort of illustrates some of the challenges that are included with the pursuit of the American Dream. However, those aren’t the only challenges that come along with it, but they are the most prevalent. My frame of mind is that nothing in this world is promised and anything that is worth having will not come easy. Generally, the argument for the American Dream not being achievable is centered around cynicism and close-mindedness. People tend to forget that we are the creators of our destiny and circumstances. And even the idea of hard work seems to have been abandoned by those who no longer believe in the American Dream. It can also be inferred that these types of individuals have been discouraged by their own failures and have chosen to give up. I personally believe that hard work, determination, faith, and consistency are the recipe for achieving anything in life. However, this was not always my belief because at one point I had a negative view of the American Dream and dismissed it as being a fallacy. But, I have learned throughout my years of living that anything can be accomplished with the application of hard work and the other attributes I previously mentioned. It is evident that the American Dream is much more than acquiring material possessions and economic elevation. In my opinion, I think that the mental and spiritual elements of the American Dream are more important to focus on. Being able to conceive the idea of living a successful and fulfilling life is a wonderful thing because the different dreams we set for ourselves are infinite. And it is through the concept of abundance within the American Dream that ensures that we can obtain anything that we desire through hard work.

Free Trade or Protectionism? Written by Jeremy Rodgers, PSC 301 Spring 2017 The debate between free traders and protectionists is not new. For years, hundreds of years, politicians and economists have argued for both positions. After the election of President Trump, there are those who are concerned about what the United States’ trade policy will be going forward. Donald Trump has made statements that seem to indicate he is more of a protectionist than a free trader, and that has classically liberal economists, scholars and voters concerned. However, there are

16 Fall 2017 | The Griffin points that Donald Trump has made about wanting to renegotiate bad trade deals that may be entirely in line with free trade as a policy. Again, this debate is not an unusual one in politics. An excellent anecdote of this debate takes place in Great Britain in the early 20th century. Prime Minister Joseph Chamberlain had to decide the trade policy his party, the liberals (whom he eventually ended up splitting), would support going forward. Liberals had traditionally been for free trade, but Chamberlain was contemplating protectionism, known then as Imperial Preference. Because Chamberlain could not make up his mind, a liberal M.P. by the name of Sir Wilfred Lawson penned the following lines to mock Chamberlain. “I’m not for Free Trade, and I’m not for Protection I approve of them both, and to both have objection In going through life I continually find It’s a terrible business to make up one’s mind. So in spite of all comments, reproach and predictions I firmly adhere to unsettled convictions”1 The Trump administration has a choice to make when it comes to free trade, and I fear that they very well may make the wrong one. President Trump believes, as The Economist writes, “his years in business have equipped him to negotiate better, smarter and tougher deals for America, whether by threatening to slap tariffs on foreign imports or to walk away from decades-old defense pacts.”2 It is understandable, when one surveys the economic conditions in the United States, that Donald Trump believes that free trade (or “unfair” trade) is resulting in the loss of American jobs and manufacturing capacity because he has identified a real problem. Trump has identified the fact that the United States has lost a lot of jobs and manufacturers to foreign countries. He is wrong, however, in concluding that it is a result of free trade. Trump has, according to The Economist, suggested a variety of solutions to force other countries into more fair-trade deals and to bring back American jobs including the introduction of tariffs on a variety of goods from particular countries. If the Trump administration follows through on the suggested protectionist policies, they will have significant, negative economic consequences. Donald Trump is right on one point that may, at first glance, appear to be an anti-free trade position, and that is his opposition to many of the United States’ trade agreements. It is entirely possible that the United States does in fact have poorly negotiated free trade deals. Exploring the answer to a single question will lend understanding as to why Donald Trump is right about this. That question is what is the definition of free trade? As defined by the Oxford Dictionary, free trade is “International trade left to its natural course without tariffs, quotas, or other restrictions.”3 So if free trade is left to its natural course, then why in the world do we even have trade agreements? Trump has been critical of many of our free trade agreements for several reasons, but it doesn’t matter if the United States has poorly negotiated trade deals or advantageous trade deals because, in both cases, neither is truly free trade. True free trade is achieved, according to our working definition, through allowing trade between countries to develop naturally without interference by any government. Therefore, President Trump should do everything within his power to eliminate the unnecessary trade agreements that the United States is involved in because that is a pro-free trade policy. Free trade has been, is currently, and will always be better for everyone. Free trade and free markets/capitalism are consistent with each other. It is inconsistent for a capitalist, like Donald Trump, to be against free trade. Free trade is essentially the free exchange of goods and services between two countries, which is no different than the free exchanged of goods and services between two individuals. The arguments made by protectionists usually include the necessity of preserving jobs, the promotion of national security, and the general interest. It is interesting to note, however, that protectionists rarely consider the consumer in the debate on trade. Milton Friedman wrote, “One voice that is hardly ever raised is the consumer’s.”4 Friedman makes a complicated, yet convincing, argument that addresses the consumer’s interest in supporting free trade as the policy of the United States. In short, free trade greatly benefits all parties involved because, just as in a capitalist economy, no exchange takes place unless both parties benefit. What should President Trump and his administration do then to protect American jobs and strengthen our own economy? Certainly, they should not abandon free trade. President Trump is right that America has lost a lot of jobs, but his conclusions about why are flat out wrong. What the Trump administration should do is really quite basic. First, they need to reform our tax system as Trump has already indicated he desires to do. Secondly, they need to reduce the incredible number of regulations the federal government has mandated for business in the United States. If both of these changes are implemented, many companies would have incentive to relocate their factories back in the United States, thereby increasing the number of jobs available to Americans, which, in turn, would result in economic growth. This is what the Trump administration should do. It is

16 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 17 unclear if they will choose the more economically sound options laid out above, or if they will choose to end our longstanding tradition of free trade. The future of free trade in the United States is uncertain in the Trump era, but there is reason to hope that, intentionally or not, Trump may pursue several free trade policies. Citations 1 Massie, Robert K. Dreadnought: Britain, Germany, and the Coming of the Great War. New York: Ballantine Books, 1992. 2 “How Donald Trump Thinks About Trade.” The Economist, November 9, 2016. 3 Oxford Dictionary 4 Friedman, Milton, and Rose Friedman. “The Case for Free Trade.” House Bill No. 4001 Written by Maggie Dwan Spring 2017 “The hardest thing in the world to understand is the income tax.” – Albert Einstein There is no question that a can of worms cracks open when a proposal for a tax decrease appears in legislature. With Michigan’s House of Representatives majority party advocating for less government interference, it may seem like the Democrats are setting up to take a loss against a tax reform proposal. However, contrary to his party’s please, Governor Rick Snyder is encouraging Republicans to take a second look at their proposal, mentioning there will be grand repercussions if the decrease is implemented. Late at night on February 20, 2017, the vote to abate Michigan’s state income tax was shot down in the House of Representatives by a 52-55 vote. It is crucial to note that the difference in opinion fell heavily along party lines. The current rate of Michigan’s income tax is 4.25%. In the specific legislation regarding the income tax, House Bill No. 4001, the income tax was originally proposed to drop to 3.9% starting January 1, 2018, through December 31, 2018. The bill then stated that beginning January 1, 2019, and each January 1st after, the income tax would be reduced by .1% each year until the percentage equals zero (House Bill No. 4001, 2017). Beginning on a positive note, the House Fiscal Agency estimates that Michigan taxpayers would save an estimated $680 million during part of fiscal year 2018 (Oosting, 2017). This savings is estimated only for a portion of the year due to the bill propositioning that the decrease would come into effect in January and the fiscal year does not begin until October. That is a huge amount of money that would be rationally funneled back into taxpayers’ pockets! It is also estimated that the following fiscal year, 2019, would bring $1.1 billion back to taxpayers. Republican Representative Lee Chatfield, the representative sponsoring House Bill No. 4001, proclaims that the average Michigan household, containing two working adults, could potentially save $200 a year if this legislation is passed. Chatfield remarks that, “. . . I think when you measure [$200] to the working man, this is something they will feel.” Michigan’s taxpayers deserve more money! With the bill being brought up while Michigan’s economy is bouncing back from tax-breaks that realistically only benefitted businesses, Representative Chatfield says there is no better time than now for legislators to give their constituents “across the state meaningful tax reform where they can experience a homegrown economic boost the same way our state has over the past six years” (Oosting, 2017). Aforementioned are claims that repetitiously encourage the vote to pass the income tax reform. With less money flowing into state revenue, more monies will be in the pockets of Michigan’s citizens. With more personal income, the average taxpayer will be able to purchase more goods, therefore more money will trickle into Michigan’s overall economy. Representative Chatfield argues that in terms of policy, the income tax amendment would stimulate economic activity, leading to more jobs (Lawler, 2017). Sales tax will also reap greater revenue which will provide money to Michigan’s government along with the continuation of property tax. For hard working individuals that feel the government is just taking too much from them, the income tax modification will give them more power over their hard earned money! The last impetus for implementation of the income tax reform derives from a past Michigan governor. In 2007, Governor Granholm raised the income tax rate during a last minute budget reform to 4.35%. The percentage was scheduled to reduce down to 3.9% by 2015, but was frozen at 4.25% in 2011. “This is a broken promise that was started by and fulfilled by the Legislator and its current governor,” said Pete Lund, head of -Michigan (Oosting, 2017). This was a false promise made to Michigan taxpayers that was brutally broken, leaving faith in government slim. With the passing of a tax decrease, taxpayers will feel noticed and appreciated by their legislators, creating positive emotions towards those in Lansing.

18 Fall 2017 | The Griffin Leaping to the other side of the spectrum, there are many factors that hinder House Bill No. 4001 from being feasible to Michigan. As of today, Michigan earns $9.7 billion in personal income tax a year. If the proposal were to pass, Michigan would lose approximately $1.78 billion in revenue the first two years after implementation. Michigan would then lose around $400 million a year for the next four decades until the income percentage was equal to zero (Oosting, 2017). This information could be interpreted two ways. Some may look at this scenario and believe that the proposal gives a lengthy, give or take, 40 years for the budget to adapt to the abolishment of an income tax. 40 years! However, others may look at the here-and-now and claim that creating such an atrocious hole in the budget without secure funds to fill the downfall is absurd and non-negotiable. $400 million a year for four whole decades is an immense amount of money missing from the budget. It should also be noted that some citizens may place their appropriations in retirement funds, or funds that are not immediately taxable, therefore not only lessening the money circulating in Michigan’s economy, but losing 100% revenue from those funds given back. Michigan’s General Fund, part of the budget which the income tax sources, is used to support government programs like health and human services, prisons, public universities, and the state police. Without known replacement of revenue, some, if not many, state and local services may see cuts or be diminished due to insufficient funding. Reducing government programs to their minimum would negatively impact society. This should truly be a concern for all Michiganders regardless of how they view government! When asked questions pertaining to the replenishment of lost funds, Representative Chatfield declined to recognize impending spending cuts his bill could result in, mentioning questions of such nature should be taken up with the House Appropriations Committee (Lawler, 2017). Through research and discussion, I have formulated an opinion towards the proposal for a Michigan income tax decrease. In my opinion, Michigan taxpayers are not supporting the government enough right now. It seems as though no one, citizens and government alike, has enough money. Taxpayers will always want more money, but the impending repercussions, which include less funding for education, protection, and transportation, are hard to overlook. The only way I will support House Bill No. 4001 is if legislators revise the bill to directly state where lost revenue will be made up for in the budget. In reality, it does not matter to me where the money comes from as long as revenue is there to create balance. The government needs to be supported by its people; it is as simple as that. Michigan citizens will not be able to live their everyday lives if Lansing begins making major cuts due to lack of funding. Taxpayers want more money, but if that means there are less beds available in local prisons, will they put their safety first? I want a society that functionsproperly and efficiently, regardless of the cost. I want to know that I can wake up every morning knowing there is a government working for the people. I am not sure a price can or should be put on the quality of life. If individuals truly believe that there is too much money in the state government then this proposal will pass and the decrease will be implemented. However, reality is never too far behind a dream; there is NEVER enough money. Especially as of recently, constituents believe that everything the government provides should be handed to them for free; this proposal would decrease the ability for government to provide handouts to these individuals. At the end of the day, even debt is an expense that has a price to pay. After a few revisions made on February 24, 2017, House Bill 4001 is now proposed to amend the previous income tax bill so that the rate would be 4.15% starting January 1, 2018, and then drop to 4.05% on January 1, 2019. Commencing on January 1, 2010, and every January 1st thereafter, the income tax would decrease to 3.95% and 3.9% successively. This drop would continue until the income tax percentage eventually plummeted to 0%, only if there is a constant balance of $1 billion budgeted in Michigan’s “rainy day fund” (Morris & Couch, 2017). With parties rallying against one another, finding unbiased opinion to decipher the positives and the negatives is critical in dissecting the true nature of the beast that is Michigan’s income tax. At Governor Snyder’s request, I hope to see our Republican legislators formulate a proposal without apparent loopholes. What will happen to House Bill 4001? We will wait and see . . . “Minds are like parachutes; they only function when open.” – Herman Wouk Works Cited House Bill No. 4001, Michigan House of Representatives, Sponsored by Representative Lee Chatfield. January, 2017. Lawler, Emily. “Michigan House Votes Down Income Tax Cut After Late-night Session.” MLive.com. MLive Media Group, 23 Feb. 2017. Web. 03 Apr. 2017. Morris, Patrick, and Chris Couch. “Reduce Individual Income Tax Rate Summary.” – Home. House Fiscal Agency, 24 Feb. 2017. Web 03 Apr. 2017. Oosting, Jonathan. “Snyder Scolds House Republicans Over Tax Cut Action.” Detroit News. MLive Media Group, 15 Feb. 2017. Web 03 Apr. 2017.

18 Fall 2017 | The Griffin The Griffin | Fall 2017 19 Nonprofit Organization U.S. Postage PAID Department of Political Science Mount Pleasant, MI 48859 and Public Administration Permit No. 93 The Griffin 247 Anspach Hall Central Michigan University Mount Pleasant, MI 48859