PODCAST:
Aug. 27, 2026 ~ As the future of Line 5 remains a major issue in Michigan, Kelly House of Bridge Michigan looks at where candidates stand on the controversial pipeline. She discusses the environmental, economic, and political factors shaping the debate as voters prepare to head to the polls.
LANSING, MICH. ~ As Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel attempt to shut down Enbridge Energy’s Line 5 petroleum pipeline in the Straits of Mackinac before their terms expire in 2027, Bridge Michigan, in partnership with 760 WJR, is looking at where each general election candidate stands on the issue.
Republican gubernatorial candidate John James is in favor of the Line 5 project, while Democratic candidate Jocelyn Benson didn’t give a straight answer to Bridge’s inquiry.
In regard to the attorney general race, Republican candidate Doug Lloyd also sided in favor of Line 5 while Democratic candidate Eli Savit did not respond.
Even though Congress members don’t oversee the pipeline, they can use legislation to influence the future of the project. Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed has called for a shutdown of the pipeline, while Republican U.S. Senate candidate Mike Rogers didn’t answer but has expressed support for Line 5 in the past.
