We spend a lot of time here calling out political BS, and this story is definitely up there among the most frustrating.

Two of Michigan’s Republican congressmen who voted for President Donald Trump’s massive tax law are about to get a nice payday from it. Literally.

Meanwhile, most Michiganders will see little to no benefit and, in some cases, could end up paying more.

The ’Gander’s Kyle Kaminski has the receipts.

Plus: Let’s define oligarchy.

Lawmakers hold hearing on telemarketing legislation (WCMU): A bipartisan package in the Michigan Senate aims to crack down on telemarketers who contact people on the federal do-not-call list without consent. The bills would restrict robocalls, require telemarketers to identify themselves, and set quiet hours for calls. Business groups pushed back, warning the legislation could trigger lawsuits, while supporters say it strengthens protections against unwanted calls and texts.

MI police chief rescinds ICE cooperation (MLive): The Metro Police Authority in Genesee County is ending its cooperation agreement with US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, citing staffing shortages. Chief Matt Bade said the decision wasn’t due to public backlash but because officers lack time for required ICE training. Immigrant rights groups welcomed the move but criticized the reasoning, calling for continued accountability and transparency.

Palisades plant receives new fuel ahead of restart (CBS News): The Palisades Nuclear Power Plant in Covert is one step closer to reopening, becoming the first decommissioned US nuclear plant to restart. Owner Holtec International says crews have received new fuel and are reassembling key equipment after federal regulators granted operations status.

A new report shows US Reps. John James and Bill Huizenga will personally benefit from the tax changes they passed into law, while most Michiganders get the short end of the stick.

Political correspondent Kyle Kaminski brings the details in this edition of “So what, Michigan?”

(The ’Gander TikTok)

Who really runs the world—the people, or a handful of elites pulling the strings?

Different power structures have ruled over societies since, well, societies became a thing. And lately, you might’ve noticed one word popping up more and more: oligarchy.

So what does that actually mean?

An oligarchy is when a small group of elites either directly runs the government or holds major sway over those who do. Think oil-rich Saudi princes or Silicon Valley tech bros. Their power comes from wealth, fame, connections—or their influence in politics, religion, or the military.

And there’s more than one flavor of oligarchy:

Plutocracy: rule by the rich.

Kleptocracy: rule by the thieves—when leaders loot their own country to get even richer.

During his farewell address in January, former President Joe Biden warned that the US could soon become an oligarchy “of extreme wealth, power, and influence.” Some experts say that’s exactly what’s been happening over the last 10 months.

Sound dramatic? Maybe. But take a look around—do you think the few are calling the shots, or do the people still hold the power?

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Karel Vega with a story from Kyle Kaminski. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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