Michigan’s Economic Record Offers Lessons for 2026

As Michigan prepares to elect its next governor, three Midland-area scholars are encouraging voters and policymakers to examine the state’s economic direction—and consider what its experience could teach the rest of the country.

In a new RealClearMarkets column, Dr. Timothy G. Nash, Dr. Alex Tokarev and Kristin Tokarev assess Michigan’s record in areas including job growth, workforce participation, economic competitiveness, corporate incentives, labor policy and infrastructure.

The authors acknowledge that no governor can be solely credited or blamed for changes in a state economy. Global events, national economic conditions, demographic shifts and industry cycles also matter. Still, they argue that Michigan’s economic trajectory—and the gap between the jobs promised and delivered through state incentive programs—deserves careful scrutiny.

Michigan has significant strengths, including manufacturing expertise, engineering talent, universities, natural resources and a central location. The authors contend that capitalizing on those assets will require competitive taxes, predictable rules, reliable infrastructure and policies that allow entrepreneurs and businesses to invest, innovate and grow without depending on political favors.

Read “Gretchen Whitmer’s 8 Years: Lessons for 2026” in RealClearMarkets.

About the Authors
Dr. Timothy G. Nash is senior vice president emeritus and director of the Northwood University Center for the Advancement of Free Enterprise and Entrepreneurship. Dr. Alex Tokarev is an associate professor of economics and philosophy at Northwood University. Kristin Tokarev is a faculty member at Founders Grove Classical Academy in Midland, Michigan.