With the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association giving tens of thousands of dollars to Michigan Republicans, it begs the question - who do they really serve?  

LANSING - Before the final legislative session concludes, Democrats are working to deliver higher wages for hard working Michiganders to ensure folks don’t just have breathing room, but can actually thrive and get a well-earned raise. Meanwhile, Michigan Republicans are focused on delivering for the Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association (MRLA), not for service industry people — notably, the MRLA has given over $68,000 to Michigan House Republicans since 2022. 

“State House Republicans received more money from the MRLA than the average Michigander makes in a year – and now, Republicans are working to subvert the will of the people who voted to increase wages,” said Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party Lavora Barnes. “Matt Hall and his caucus are refusing to show up for work and still collecting a paycheck while working against an effort that Michiganders voted for in 2018 and that was upheld by the courts. It is more clear than ever that the MIGOP is serving the MRLA, not the people who actually serve the tables and tend the bars.

“The MIGOP is working to slash wages and undermine our democratic process at the same time. Raised minimum wages for tipped-employees has proven successful for workers in states across the country and can provide a reliable, regular paycheck and stability for people. Service industry workers need someone in their corner – Michigan Dems have proven themselves as an ally and advocate for blue-collar service workers and have shown up to listen. We have your back. That hasn’t and won’t change.”

These MRLA contributions, totaling over $68,000, are more than the average salary for working people in Michigan, which is approximately $58,000 — notably, come the new year, Speaker of the House Matt Hall’s salary will be $95,985. Meanwhile, he and his Republican caucus members are making strident efforts to slash workers’ salaries, they refuse to come to work and serve the people — all while bringing in well over what the average Michigan worker makes.