Cover Story

Bill Milliken @ 90

February 21, 2012

William G. Milliken turns 90 on March 26. While getting out the cake and candles, it’s a good time to swap a few stories and reflect on what the state’s longest serving governor means to Michigan.

Dome asked a variety of Michigan opinion leaders, many who have known the former governor (Michigan’s Passionate Moderate, as biographer Dave Dempsey titled his book) well over the past several decades, to evaluate the importance of the governor’s career. Or at least tell a few good tales about him.

The columnists and links to their commentaries are below.

Happy 90th Birthday, Governor, from all of Michigan.

More than a Nice Guy – Tough on the Tough Issues |by Lana Pollack
Despite his nice guy image, the governor was a tough politician and skilled deal maker who engaged in bruising political battles. | more

Milliken and Young – America’s Political ‘Odd Couple’ |by Bob Berg
Two men from far different worlds formed the most productive bipartisan political partnership in Michigan history. | more

Establishing the Modern Era of Ethics Reform |by Craig Ruff
Gov. Milliken transformed how public officials conduct the public’s business. | more

The Future Governor and LBJ – There’s the Rub |by Jack Lessenberry
A birthday is a good time for offbeat stories, including the Air Force One ride with President Lyndon Johnson. | more

Ushering in a New Season of Environmental Protections |by Dave Dempsey
Bill Milliken was the right man in the right state at the right time to help lead a green revolution. | more

Lessons Still Worth Learning – Even for Conservatives |by Paul Welday
While the Michigan GOP of 2012 is a long way from the Republican Party built by Gov. Milliken, there are some lessons to be learned. | more