MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. — For more than a month, Republican Lt. Gov. Brian Calley has been teasing a May 30 ‘major announcement.’
Calley is scheduled to make the announcement later this afternoon on Mackinac Island as business and political leaders arrive for the annual policy conference.
The swirling speculation of what will be announced has largely centered on an anticipated gubernatorial campaign launch. Gov. Rick Snyder is term-limited and cannot run for re-election. To date, no high-profile Republican has entered the race, though Attorney General Bill Schuette is expected to run and state Sen. Patrick Colbeck is considering it.
Lesser-known Republican candidates include Saginaw doctor Jim Hines, Joseph Derose, Evan Space and Mark McFarlin.
But others have suggested Calley might instead announce a U.S. Senate run to take on Democrat Debbie Stabenow.
Most recently, talk has shifted to whether Calley would instead announce his support of making Michigan’s full-time Legislature part-time, as was first reported by WLNS-TV veteran state Capitol corespondent Tim Skubick. Calley has backed the idea of a part-time Legislature for several years despite Snyder’s open opposition to the idea.
John Yob, a political strategist who is working closely with Calley on the announcement, has not confirmed nor denied any of the speculative reporting.
The change to a part-time Legislature would require a voter-approved ballot initiative to change the state Constitution.
Calley’s website, CalleyforMichigan.com, is also touting a second announcement coming Thursday, urging visitors to “please come back June 1st.”
Calley, 40, is a former banker and state lawmaker who as lieutenant governor has advocated for disability, mental health and prescription drug abuse reforms.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
