SE Oakland News

Senator Aric Nesbitt, a Republican member of the Michigan Senate, has recently used his social media platform to criticize both Canadian environmental policy and Michigan's state leadership. In a series of posts published between August 6 and August 7, 2025, Nesbitt addressed concerns ranging from air quality to immigration enforcement.

On August 6, Nesbitt proposed financial penalties against Canada in response to air pollution affecting Michigan. He wrote, "We should charge Canada $100 million dollars for every day that air quality in Michigan is at unhealthy levels as a result of their incompetence and distribute that money to the people of Michigan."

Later that day, he criticized Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s administration with another post: "Once again, Governor Whitmer is failing the people of Michigan and disregarding the basic values we hold dear."

The following day, on August 7, Nesbitt turned his attention to local policies regarding immigration. He stated: "Cities shouldn’t have to clarify where they stand on this. Sanctuary Cities should be BANNED ENTIRELY from Michigan. The law is not a suggestion."

Air quality issues in Michigan have been linked periodically to wildfire smoke drifting from Canada during summer months. These cross-border pollution events have prompted political debate over responsibility and mitigation strategies by both U.S. and Canadian officials.

Sanctuary city policies remain a contentious issue in several states including Michigan. Such policies generally limit cooperation with federal immigration authorities and are often debated within state legislatures regarding their legality and impact on public safety.

Nesbitt’s statements reflect ongoing partisan discussions about environmental accountability across borders as well as divergent approaches toward immigration enforcement within the state.