Former Michigan Governors Call for Increased Civility in Politics and Public Life

Photo credit: Mackinac Center

On Feb. 4, the Michigan Civility Coalition brought together former Michigan Govs. Jim Blanchard, John Engler, Jennifer Granholm, and Rick Snyder to discuss with Fox 2 Detroit’s Roop Raj how individuals and organizations can advocate for civil discourse in politics and public life.

From the media’s role in civility to negative political campaigns and the need to give hope to younger generations, the two Democratic and two Republican governors shared their perspectives on the critical role civility plays in improving public trust.

Throughout the conversation, Blanchard shared stories about bipartisanship and compromise. He also encouraged audience members to involve their children and grandchildren in political campaigns to foster responsibility and understanding that today’s incivility is not normal. 

Engler discussed the negative impact of social media and anonymous online commentary on public discourse, highlighting how it accelerates division and misinformation. He called for more responsible media coverage and suggested that local news is more trusted than national outlets. 

Granholm highlighted the importance of respect and suggested finding common ground outside politics to start civil dialogues. She stressed the need to inspire young people to see more civility, honesty, and humility, arguing that these traits are strong and essential for a healthy democracy. 

Snyder, who recently joined the Detroit Regional Chamber Board of Directors, argued that the biggest threat to the country is Americans’ inability to get along, not external adversaries, and called for proactive efforts to improve civility.  

To do so, he promoted his philosophy of “positive relentless action,” urging people to avoid blame, focus on solutions, and pursue positive outcomes in politics as they do in their daily lives. 

The Detroit Regional Chamber has long promoted civility as a cornerstone of government, economic, and societal prosperity. Whether on Michigan’s largest stages or in correspondence to the state and nation’s government leaders, the Chamber has created space for challenging conversations rooted in respect and problem-solving.  

Its Mackinac Policy Conference was even the platform from which The Civility Project, led by journalists Stephen Henderson and Nolan Finley, was launched. The 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference theme is “A Quest for Common Ground,” and urges leaders to rise above divisiveness and champion pragmatic solutions that respond to Michiganders’ clear demand for meaningful action and tangible results.