{{Short description|American politician (born 1971)}} {{Infobox officeholder | name = Jase Bolger | image = Bolger headshot (1).jpg | caption = Bolger in 2010 | office = {{plainlist| *Chair *Michigan Civil Service Commission<br /><small>Elected on April 27, 2023</small>}} | governor = Gretchen Whitmer<br />Rick Snyder | term_start = December 29, 2016 | term_end = December 31, 2024 | predecessor = Janet McClelland | successor = David Berridge | office1 = 71st Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives | term_start1 = January 1, 2011 | term_end1 = December 31, 2014 | predecessor1 = Andy Dillon | successor1 = Kevin Cotter | state_house2 = Michigan | district2 = 63rd | term_start2 = January 1, 2009 | term_end2 = December 31, 2014 | predecessor2 = Lorence Wenke | successor2 = David Maturen | birth_date = {{birth date and age|1971|2|2}} | birth_place = Grand Rapids, Michigan, U.S. | death_date = | death_place = | party = Republican | spouse = {{marriage|Molly Bolger|1993}} | children = 2 | education = Western Michigan University {{small|(BBA)}} }} '''James "Jase" Bolger''' (born February 2, 1971) served as the 71st Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives from January 12, 2011 to the end of 2014 session.<ref name=MLive/> Bolger is a member of the Republican Party, and represented Michigan's 63rd house district from 2009 to 2014.<ref name=MLive/> After being term limited out, he founded a consulting firm, Tusker Strategies.<ref>[http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2015/01/jase_bolger_forms_consulting_f.html "Jase Bolger forms consulting firm, will work with West Michigan Policy Forum"], mlive.com, January 7, 2015.</ref> Bolger was also appointed by former Governor Rick Snyder on December 29, 2016 to the Michigan Civil Service Commission and was elected chair on April 27, 2023 and served until December 31, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Snyder appoints Bolger to state employee commission |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2016/12/29/snyder-bolger/95975020/ |access-date=2023-07-18 |website=The Detroit News |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Whitmer |first=Gretchen |date=December 19, 2024 |title=Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions |url=https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/news/press-releases/2024/12/19/governor-whitmer-makes-appointments-to-boards-and-commissions |url-status=live |access-date=March 4, 2026 |website=State of Michigan}}</ref> Bolger was named President and CEO of the West Michigan Policy Forum on May 19, 2025.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Jase Bolger named President & CEO of the West Michigan Policy Forum |url=https://www.wmpolicyforum.com/news/jase-bolger-president-and-ceo/ |access-date=2026-03-04 |website=West Michigan Policy Forum |language=en-US}}</ref>
==Personal life, education and career== James "Jase" Bolger was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the son of James and Eileen Bolger.<ref name=MLive>Davis, Paula M. (January 9, 2011). [http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2011/01/michigan_house_speaker_jase_bo.html "Michigan House Speaker Bolger says GOP has 'no excuses', must deliver results"]. ''Kalamazoo Gazette''.</ref> Due to his father's job as a Michigan State Police trooper, the family moved around the state often, before settling in Charlotte, Michigan when Jase entered first grade.<ref name=MLive/> He graduated Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Business Administration with a dual major in Finance and Political Science.<ref name=RSLC>[http://www.rslc.com/bio_jase_bolger Speaker James Bolger bio] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140324231535/http://www.rslc.com/bio_jase_bolger |date=2014-03-24 }}, ''Republican State Leadership Committee''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref>
Prior to entering politics, Bolger founded (and continues to help operate) a small collections/skip tracing business that updates phone records for Fortune 100 companies. An Eagle Scout, he has also been associated with AYSO Soccer, the Rotary Club, United Way, the KAAAP mentor program, Oaklawn Hospital, the Knights of Columbus and several Chambers of Commerce. He is married and has two children. Bolger and his family are Roman Catholic.<ref name=MLive/>
==Political career== Bolger was first elected to public office in 2004 as a Calhoun County Commissioner, he was later reelected for the same post in 2006.<ref name=WMUGOP>Western Michigan University GOP (May 21, 2008). [http://wmugop.blogspot.com/2008/05/jase-bolger-for-state-representative.html Jase Bolger for State Representative]. ''WMUGOP Blogspot.''</ref> One of his stated priorities as a Commissioner was to minimize the county's spending which he believed was necessary to secure the county's future.<ref name=RSLC /> During his time as county commissioner Bolger worked with the Democratic majority to achieve consolidation for three 911 Calhoun County dispatchers.<ref name=BOCminutes>Calhoun County Board of Commissioners (February 7, 2008)[http://www.calhouncountymi.gov/assets/1/7/080207_BOC_Minutes.pdf Board of Commissioners Meeting Minutes] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140331174929/http://www.calhouncountymi.gov/assets/1/7/080207_BOC_Minutes.pdf |date=2014-03-31 }} ''Calhouncountymi.gov''</ref> The consolidation of the Battle Creek, Albion and Marshall centers into a single center, located in Marshall, resulted in improved service and a net saving of $1.5 million for local taxpayers.<ref>VoIP Channel (June 6, 2008).[http://cisconary.com/voip/mpsc-approves-60cent-charge-on-all-911-calls "MPSC Approves 60 cent Charge on all 911 calls"], Cisconary.com; accessed August 25, 2016.</ref>
Bolger was first elected as a State Representative in November 2008, when he defeated Democratic nominee Phyllis Smith by a 13-point margin.<ref name=Election2008/> He was subsequently reelected in 2010 and 2012 and served as Speaker until 2014.<ref name=Election2010 /><ref name=Election2012/> In 2012, Democrats campaigned heavily trying to defeat Bolger, spending nearly $1 million on mail, television and radio attack ads; however, Bolger won re-election to his third and final term.<ref name=KZoo>Klug, Fritz (November 7, 2012). [http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2012/11/house_speaker_jase_bolger_clai.html House Speaker Jase Bolger claims victory in re-election bid against Bill Farmer], ''Kalamazoo Gazette''; accessed August 25, 2016.</ref>
Under Bolger's leadership, Republicans retained their majority in the Michigan House while President Barack Obama was re-elected by a 9.5 point margin in Michigan, and U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow was re-elected by a 20-point margin.<ref name=election2012FedMI>[http://www.pressandguide.com/articles/2012/11/07/business/doc509a731d467e9483310845.txt ELECTION 2012: NATION: President Obama wins second term; Stabenow, Dingell, Conyers win] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304113548/http://www.pressandguide.com/articles/2012/11/07/business/doc509a731d467e9483310845.txt |date=2016-03-04 }}, PressandGuide.com; November 7, 2012.</ref>
He represented Michigan's 63rd legislative District, which included the eastern Kalamazoo County city of Galesburg and the townships of Brady, Charleston, Climax, Comstock, Kalamazoo, Pavilion, Richland, Ross and Wakeshma; as well as the central/southern Calhoun County city of Marshall, village of Athens, Burlington, Homer, Tekonsha and the townships of Athens, Burlington, Clarendon, Eckford, Emmett, Fredonia, Homer, Leroy, Marengo, Marshall, Newton and Tekonsha.<ref name=DistrictMap>State of Michigan [http://www.michigan.gov/documents/House_63_30705_7.pdf Map of Michigan's 63rd District], Michigan.gov; accessed August 25, 2016.</ref>
After completing his term Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives, Bolger founded a consulting firm, Tusker Strategies. In addition to his private sector work, Bolger was appointed in 2016 to serve on the Michigan Civil Service Commission for a term ending December 31, 2024.<ref>{{Cite web |date= |title=Jase Bolger, Commissioner |url=https://www.michigan.gov/mdcs/commission/meet-the-commission/jase-bolger |access-date=July 18, 2023 |website=Michigan Civil Service Commission}}</ref> The Commission is a bipartisan, four-member body, appointed by the governor of the state to regulate all conditions of employment for state employees. On April 27, 2023 Bolger was elected to serve as Chair of the Michigan Civil Service Commission.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Burns |first=Gus |date=2023-07-13 |title=Michigan ends marijuana testing for some government job applicants |url=https://www.mlive.com/cannabis/2023/07/michigan-ends-marijuana-testing-for-some-government-job-applicants.html |access-date=2023-07-18 |website=mlive |language=en}}</ref>
==Political positions and initiatives== Bolger was elected as House leader in 2011, during his time as Speaker numerous legislative packages that aided Michigan's recovery passed. Specifically, the Michigan House has passed legislation to cut duplicative regulation, as well as reforming the tax structure and pension systems.<ref name=CapCon/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.michigan.gov/lara/0,4601,7-154-35738-316912--,00.html|title=LARA - Office of Regulatory Reinvention Eliminates 1,500 Rules, Implements 100 Recommendations Making Regulations More Efficient|access-date=August 25, 2016}}</ref> In addition to those initiatives, the Speaker has worked with Republicans statewide to pass right-to-work legislation and education reform measures.<ref name=RTWMPRN/> The Michigan House has also passed a balanced budget ahead of schedule all four years Bolger served as Speaker.<ref name="michigan.gov">State of Michigan (June 13, 2013). [http://michigan.gov/snyder/0,4668,7-277--305808--,00.html Michigan's 2014 budget balanced and on time], Michigan.gov; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref>
===Education reform=== During Bolger's term as Speaker he achieved bipartisan support for education reform.<ref name=HouseRollCall1>House Roll Call, Tenure Reform (June 30, 2011). [http://michiganvotes.org/RollCall.aspx?ID=576861 2011 House Bill 4625: Make it easier to fire ineffective teachers (House Roll Call 294)] ''Roll Call Votes''.</ref><ref name=HouseRollCall2>House Roll Call, Tenure Reform (June 30, 2011). [http://michiganvotes.org/RollCall.aspx?ID=576869 2011 House Bill 4627: Ban laying off more effective but less senior teachers first ("LIFO") (House Roll Call 296)] ''Roll Call Votes''.</ref> Since 2011, the Michigan House of Representatives have passed numerous education reforms including tenure reform, expansion of cyber and charter school choices, teacher benefit reforms and early childhood development investment.<ref name=HouseRollCall1/><ref name=HouseRollCall2/><ref name=tenurereform /><ref name=schoolchoice/><ref name=MPSERS/><ref name=MPREd/> During Bolger's first year as Speaker, the House passed tenure reform.<ref name=tenurereform>Mack, Julie (July 15, 2011). [http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2011/07/michigan_tenure_reform_the_rea.html Michigan tenure reform: The real ways in which it could help and hurt teachers (with video)], ''Kalamazoo Gazette''.</ref> Tenure reform in Michigan guaranteed students would not be left with an underperforming teacher or lose a teacher who is exceeding. Tenure reform made it easier for a school district to fire ineffective teachers, and banned the last in first out approach previously utilized.<ref name=tenurereform/>
In addition to tenure reform, Bolger and the House passed legislation that expanded school choice options, guaranteeing more students access to cyber and charter schools; the legislation passed with bipartisan support.<ref name=schoolchoice>Murray, Dave (May 20, 2012). [http://www.mlive.com/education/index.ssf/2012/05/jase_bolger_theres_no_republic.html Jase Bolger: There's no Republican conspiracy to eliminate public schools, we agree with Obama], MLive.com; accessed August 25, 2016.</ref> The school choice legislation gradually lifts the cap on charter schools authorized by universities and allows for more cyber school options.<ref name=tenurereform/><ref name=schoolchoice/>
During the Speaker's term, teacher benefit reforms were also accomplished.<ref name=MPSERS>Eggert, Dave (June 14, 2012). [http://www.mlive.com/education/index.ssf/2012/06/deal_reached_on_changing_teach.html Tentative deal reached on big changes in Michigan's teacher retirement system] ''MLive.com''.</ref> The legislation, which is described as the biggest change in the state's teacher retirement system in a generation, allows school districts to allocate less towards retirement pensions and more towards students.<ref name=MPSERS/> School district leaders have noted the change to retirement pension requirements have been a blessing, saying the separation allows school districts to spend more on school operations.<ref name=MPSERS/><ref name=edbud1>Dickson, James and Darren Littell (February 6, 2014). [http://blogs.detroitnews.com/politics/2014/02/06/darren-littell-gov-snyders-education-record-sterling "Clearing the air on Gov. Snyder's education spending"], ''The Detroit News''.</ref> The reform also created the option for teachers to commit more towards their own retirement, or have the option for a smaller pension.<ref name=MPSERS/>
The Republican-led House under Bolger increased funding for early childhood development by $65 million in 2013 and again in 2014.<ref name=MPREd /><ref name=BridgeEd>Melot, Derek (January 9, 2013). [http://bridgemi.com/2013/01/bolger-backs-bigger-dollars-for-early-childhood "Bolger backs bigger dollars for early childhood"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140407060208/http://bridgemi.com/2013/01/bolger-backs-bigger-dollars-for-early-childhood/ |date=2014-04-07 }}, ''Bridge Magazine''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> The changes to funding for early childhood development have resulted in at least 16,000 more students being able to attend pre-k schooling.<ref name=MPREd>Dwyer, Dustin (May 28, 2013). [http://stateofopportunity.michiganradio.org/post/65-million-increase-early-ed-expected-pass-creates-16000-new-preschool-slots-michigan $65 million increase for early ed expected to pass; creates 16,000 new preschool slots in Michigan], ''Michigan Public Radio''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref><ref>Brownfield, Mike (June 19, 2013). [http://www.michigan.gov/snyder/0,4668,7-277-60279-306446--,00.html Investing in Education], Michigan.gov; accessed August 25, 2016.</ref> Regarding increased early childhood development funding Speaker Bolger said,
{{Blockquote|We should expand early childhood education opportunities as investments to help kids succeed. Those investments also will provide savings to our schools and communities years later as those students learn — and a decade later as they find success through working and don't enter our criminal justice system.<ref name=BridgeEd/>}}
The Speaker's comments on early childhood funding were applauded by the Children's Leadership Council of Michigan.<ref name=BridgeEd/>
===Job growth=== Michigan saw a sharp decline in the labor force starting in 2008 and lasting until 2011, which resulted in 800,000 jobs lost.<ref name=BLSnumbers>Bureau of Labor Statistics [http://data.bls.gov/timeseries/LASST260000000000005?data_tool=XGtable Data, tables and calculators by subject] ''Bureau of Labor Statistics'';' accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> In 2009, Michigan's unemployment rate hit a record-high 14.2 percent.<ref name=BLSnumbers/><ref name=unemploymentdrops>Oosting, Jonathan (March 5, 2014). [http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2014/03/michigan_unemployment_rate_dro.html Michigan unemployment rate plummets to 7.8 percent in January, lowest point since 2008] ''MLive.com.''</ref> During that same period Michigan saw its population base shrink.<ref>Witsil, Frank (January 9, 2014). [http://www.freep.com/article/20140109/BUSINESS06/301100055/michigan-migration-balanced-economy Based on moves, Michigan population loss tapers off, indicating improving economy] ''Detroit Free Press.''</ref> In 2011, Bolger worked with Republicans in the house to pass tax, education and pension reform measures, and employers have responded positively to the changes.<ref name=CapCon/> Since the reforms were passed in 2011, more than 300,000 jobs returned to the state.<ref name=BLSnumbers/> During Bolger's time as Speaker from 2011 through 2014, Michigan had the fifth highest job growth in the nation, and the state's unemployment rate decreased to 6.7 percent.<ref name=CapCon>Gantert, Tom (January 3, 2014). [http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/19491 "Michigan Among the Leaders in Job Growth"], ''Michigan Capitol Confidential''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref><ref name=BLSnumbers/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bls.gov/web/laus/lauhsthl.htm |title=Current Unemployment Rates for States and Historical Highs/Lows |website=Bls.gov |date=2016-08-19 |access-date=2016-08-27}}</ref>
====Poverty decline==== From 2008 until the end of 2010 under a Democrat controlled Michigan House of Representatives and Democratic Governor Jennifer Granholm, Michigan's poverty rate rose from 14.4% in 2008 up to 17.5% in 2011.<ref name=MCPPPoverty>Mackinac Center for Public Policy (December 5, 2015). [http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/21946 "Poverty Rate Soaring?"], Michigan Capitol Confidential; accessed December 6, 2015.</ref> When elected Speaker, Bolger stated it was the goal of Republican leaders to address our state's increasing poverty rate by creating more jobs. Specifically, Bolger stated "it has to be all about job creation.<ref>{{cite web|title=Michigan House Speaker Jase Bolger says GOP has 'no excuses', must deliver results|date=9 January 2011 |url=http://www.mlive.com/news/kalamazoo/index.ssf/2011/01/michigan_house_speaker_jase_bo.html|publisher=MLive|access-date=December 6, 2015}}</ref>
After four years of Republican reforms led by Bolger, Governor Rick Snyder and former Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville, Michigan saw significant economic improvement with more than 300,000 jobs added to state's economy, which aided the state's poverty rate decrease.<ref name=CapCon/><ref name=BLSnumbers /><ref name=MCPPPoverty/> While Bolger was Speaker, Michigan's poverty rate declined each year since 2011, from a high of 17.5% down to 16.2% in 2014.<ref name=MCPPPoverty/>
===Right to Work=== In 2012, Michigan became the nation's 24th right-to-work state.<ref name=CNNRTW>Bennet, William (December 13, 2012). [https://edition.cnn.com/2012/12/12/opinion/bennett-michigan-unions "A Victory For Right To Work Laws"], cnn.com; accessed December 20, 2012.</ref> Prior to passage, Speaker Bolger was the sole legislative leader who supported right-to-work when other Michigan Republicans were lukewarm on the idea.<ref name=RTWMPRN>Clark, Zoe and Rick Pluta (February 21, 2014). [http://michiganradio.org/post/auto-no-fault-overhaul-gop-s-holy-grail "Auto No-fault overhaul GOP's Holy Grail"], ''Michigan Public Radio Network.''</ref><ref name=MLiveRTW>Luke, Peter (January 13, 2011). [http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/01/new_house_speaker_jase_bolger.html "New House Speaker Bolger says 'right-to-work' status is 'on the table'"], mlive.com; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> The day Bolger was elected Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives he stated that fellow Republicans should join him in reviewing the potential for right-to-work legislation.<ref name=MLiveRTW/> During Bolger's term as Speaker, right-to-work legislation was introduced and passed by the House on December 6, 2012.<ref name=MCRTW>Mackinac Center [http://www.michigancapitolconfidential.com/media/images/2013/RTWtimelineWeb.jpg Virtual Timeline], ''Michigan Capitol Confidential''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> The legislation was eventually signed by Governor Rick Snyder on December 11, 2012.<ref name=MCRTW /> Nearly six years after passage, workers in Michigan earn 8.06% less than the states that border Michigan and kept collective bargaining.<ref>Illinois Economic Policy Institute April 3, 2017 Frank Manzo IV https://ler.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/RTW-in-the-Midwest-2010-2016.pdf {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180629124130/https://ler.illinois.edu/wp-content/uploads/2017/03/RTW-in-the-Midwest-2010-2016.pdf |date=2018-06-29 }}</ref>
===Tax reform and venture capital growth=== Bolger worked with Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville and Governor Snyder to pass tax reform in the state.<ref>Michigan Chamber of Commerce (February 17, 2011). [http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/michigan-chamber-of-commerce-applauds-governor-snyders-approach-to-tax-reform-and-balancing-of-state-budget-116421634.html Michigan Chamber of Commerce Applauds Governor Snyder's Approach to Tax Reform and Balancing of State Budget] ''PR Newswire.''</ref> The tax overhaul was the largest in 17 years, and included eliminating the Michigan Business Tax, reforming the personal income and pension tax systems.<ref>Luke, Peter (May 25, 2011). [http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2011/05/gov_rick_snyder_signs_michigan.html Gov. Rick Snyder signs Michigan business/income tax overhaul into law] ''MLive.com''</ref> The changes in corporate tax structure have resulted in Michigan improving its corporate tax business environment from an all-time low ranking of 49th up to seventh-best in the country.<ref>Robyn, Mark (February 10, 2012). [http://taxfoundation.org/blog/michigan-implements-positive-corporate-tax-reform Michigan implements positive corporate tax reform] ''Tax Foundation.''</ref> Under the new tax changes, Michigan has become a top state for venture capital projects with 312 new projects in 2013.<ref name="Cover Story: Double Take">Arend, Mark (March 2014). [http://siteselection.com/issues/2014/mar/cover.cfm Cover Story: Double Take] ''Site Selection.''</ref> The state ranks fifth in new project development, and 10th for projects per capita.<ref name="Cover Story: Double Take"/>
Additionally, Bolger and the House passed legislation to improve the personal property tax system in Michigan.<ref name=PPTreform>Oosting, Jonathan (February 25, 2014). [http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2014/02/michigan_personal_property_tax_1.html Michigan personal property tax reform plan hailed as 'win-win' for businesses, local governments] ''MLive.com.''</ref> The personal property tax legislation, which was championed by the Lieutenant Governor Brian Calley, allows for 100 percent reimbursement to municipalities and an 80 percent reduction in business taxes based on the previous system.<ref name=PPTreform />
===Balancing the budget=== When Bolger assumed his new role the state was facing a $1.8 billion budget deficit, noting the budget deficit was a concern Bolger worked with Republicans to balance the budget.<ref name=MLive /> Prior to becoming Speaker, Michigan saw annual budget shortfalls of $1.5 billion on average, as well as repeated government shutdowns.<ref name=MLive /><ref name=MLiveBudget>Bridge Magazine (July 12, 2013). [http://www.mlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2013/07/rep_jase_bolger_with_tough_dec.html Rep. Jase Bolger: With tough decisions, GOP lawmakers put Michigan on path for better future] ''MLive.com''</ref> In his first year as Speaker, Bolger, Senate Majority Leader Randy Richardville and Governor Rick Snyder worked to pass a budget which resulted in Michigan seeing a more than $450 million surplus.<ref name=NYTimes>Davey, Monica (February 8, 2012). [https://www.nytimes.com/2012/02/09/us/surplus-surprises-michigan-but-is-it-safe-to-spend-again.html?pagewanted=all&_r=0 Surplus Surprises Michigan, but Is It Safe to Spend Again?] ''New York Times.''</ref>
In each subsequent year the Michigan legislature has passed, and the governor has signed a balanced budget.<ref name="michigan.gov"/> In each of the past three years, Michigan has seen a surplus that has also helped replenish the state's Rainy Day Fund, which in 2011 had $2.2 million in reserves and now is projected to surpass $700 million in reserves for the 2014-15 fiscal year budget.<ref name=FreepRDF>Egan, Paul and Kathleen Gray (February 5, 2014). [http://www.freep.com/article/20140204/NEWS06/302040156/Gov-Snyder-s-budget-plan-calls-for-more-in-Rainy-Day-Fund Gov. Snyder's budget plan calls for 6.1% hike for universities, more in Rainy Day Fund] ''Detroit Free Press.''</ref><ref>State of Michigan [http://www.michigan.gov/midashboard/0,4624,7-256-59631_59883_60045---,00.html Michigan Rainy Day Fund] ''Michigan.gov.''</ref>
===Detroit revitalization=== Speaker Bolger has stated that he plans to work with legislators on both sides of the aisle to assist Detroit in its revitalization.<ref name=Detroit>Riley, Rochelle (November 3, 2013). [http://www.freep.com/article/20131103/COL10/311030064/Jase-Bolger-Michigan-Detroit Rochelle Riley: Speaker Bolger gets busy on Detroit's plight, but not all lawmakers are persuaded] ''Detroit Free Press.''</ref> In October 2013, the Speaker visited Detroit with state Representative Harvey Santana, a Democrat from Michigan's 9th house district, and pledged to explore ways to fight crime, lower auto insurance rates and clean up the city.<ref name=Detroit /> After the visit Speaker Bolger met with the Michigan State Police to discuss alternatives to fighting crime, as well as discussing plans about alternative sentencing options with other legislators.<ref name=Detroit/>
Also, since that visit the Speaker has worked with local Detroit representatives to garner support for scrap metal theft legislation and education reform.<ref>Livengood, Chad (March 19, 2014). [http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140319/POLITICS02/303190087/Michigan-House-approves-scrap-metal-theft-reforms Michigan House approves scrap metal theft reforms] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325005122/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140319/POLITICS02/303190087/Michigan-House-approves-scrap-metal-theft-reforms |date=2014-03-25 }} ''The Detroit News.''</ref><ref>Eggert, David (March 20, 2014). [http://www.sfgate.com/news/article/House-OKs-school-turnaround-district-legislation-5335708.php House OKs school turnaround district legislation] ''Associated Press.''</ref> Recently, the Speaker proposed a change to Michigan's auto insurance laws, which would help reduce cost for Detroit's drivers; after promoting his proposal the Speaker met with Representatives John Olumba and Santana in an effort to create bi-partisan reform.<ref>Briscoe, Tony (March 21, 2014) [http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140321/POLITICS02/303210130 Auto insurance reform sought] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325010913/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140321/POLITICS02/303210130 |date=2014-03-25 }} ''The Detroit News.''</ref>
====Detroit's bankruptcy and recovery==== In May 2014, Bolger announced the formation of a special committee, House Committee on Detroit's Recovery and Michigan's Future, to help Detroit settle the largest municipal bankruptcy in history while protecting Michigan taxpayers statewide.<ref name=DETintro>Oosting, Jonathan, [http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2014/05/state_money_for_detroit_new_mi.html "State money for Detroit? New Michigan panel to consider 'grand bargain' legislation, oversight"], mlive.com, May 13, 2014; accessed January 17, 2015.</ref> Bolger was quoted as saying "we are putting a strong team in place to resolve this difficult issue today with a vision for a bright future."<ref name=DETintro/> The committee introduced legislation to help Detroit avoid further bankruptcy litigation by offering a $194.8 million lump sum to the city's retirement systems. In addition to the one-time contribution, legislation was passed to create an oversight commission to aid Detroit's recovery.<ref name=DETintro/>
The Speaker also called on unions to make contributions to help in the Detroit settlement.<ref name=freepdet>Egan, Paul & John Gallagher, [http://www.freep.com/article/20140418/NEWS06/304180098/jase-bolger-detroit-bankruptcy-grand-bargain-union "Michigan House leader tells Detroit unions to put up cash or get no money from state"], freep.com, April 18, 2014; accessed January 17, 2015.</ref> Bolger requested unions to make a material contribution that is reflective of other parties involved in the settlement.<ref name=freepdet/> Bolger's request did not come without opposition, the ''Detroit Free Press'' issued an editorial claiming Governor Rick Snyder should convince Speaker Bolger to drop his demand or go around Bolger.<ref>Detroit Free Press Editorial Board (April 25, 2014). [http://www.freep.com/article/20140425/OPINION01/304250015/Editorial-Gov-Rick-Snyder-must-rein-Jase-Bolger-unions Editorial: Gov. Rick Snyder must rein in Jase Bolger on unions], ''Detroit Free Press''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> The ''Detroit News'' editorialized that the union contribution demand was too much, and the likelihood of unions contributing would be slim.<ref>''Detroit News'' Editorial Board. [https://archive.today/20140609201221/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140501/OPINION01/305010010/1322/A-new-generation-Cuban-stars-staging-baseball-revolution "Bolger should allow grand bargain"], ''The Detroit News'', May 1, 2014; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> Other critics wrote that Bolger's demand would imperil the settlement.<ref>Howes, Daniel (May 13, 2014). [http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140513/BIZ/305130016 Bolger's union demand imperils 'grand bargain' in Detroit bankruptcy] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140513055849/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140513/BIZ/305130016 |date=2014-05-13 }} ''The Detroit News''.</ref> Bolger did receive support from conservative columnists and was urged to continue his demand.<ref>Calabrese, Dan, [http://blogs.detroitnews.com/politics/2014/04/21/jase-bolgers-right-unions-pay-pension-bailout "Speaker Bolger is right: Unions need to pay, or no pension bailout"], ''The Detroit News'', April 21, 2014; accessed January 17, 2015.</ref> Bolger held firm to his request, and unions - the first was The Michigan Building and Construction Trades Council - did agree to make material contributions towards health care costs to help with the Detroit bankruptcy settlement.<ref name=MLiveDet2>Oosting, Jonathan (May 19, 2014) [http://www.mlive.com/lansing-news/index.ssf/2014/05/union_contribution_a_huge_step.html "Bolger: Union contribution a 'huge step forward' for Detroit bankruptcy 'grand bargain'"], mlive.com; accessed March 3, 2015.</ref> After unions agreed to contribution money towards the settlement, the Michigan House passed legislation with major bipartisan support.<ref name=DetNewsDET>Livengood, Chad & Gary Heinlein (May 22, 2014). [http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140522/POLITICS02/305220076 "Detroit's 'grand bargain' advances in Michigan Legislature"] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140522211200/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140522/POLITICS02/305220076 |date=2014-05-22 }}, detroitnews.com; accessed March 3, 2015.</ref>
Governor Snyder called the legislative package an opportunity to change the direction of Detroit.<ref name=DetNewsDET/> Upon passage, the ''Detroit News'' called the final legislative package a "grand piece of work", and the ''Detroit Free Press'' opined that the deal showed that lawmakers "get it".<ref>[http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20140605/OPINION01/306050007/Editorial-Detroit-s-grand-bargain-grand-piece-work "Detroit's 'grand bargain' a grand piece of work"]{{Dead link|date=March 2023 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}, ''The Detroit News''; accessed March 3, 2015.</ref><ref>[http://www.freep.com/article/20140604/OPINION01/306030194/Editorial-OK-Detroit-bankruptcy-deal-shows-Michigan-lawmakers-get-it Editorial: "OK of Detroit bankruptcy deal shows Michigan lawmakers get it"], ''Detroit Free Press''; accessed March 3, 2015.</ref>
==Political controversies== ===2012: HB 5711 floor debate=== On June 13, 2012, Speaker Bolger allegedly refused to recognize now former Michigan state legislator Lisa Brown for a full service day after she used the term "vagina" during a floor debate over a bill (HB 5711) to further regulate abortion in the state.<ref>{{cite news|last=Bergstrom|first=William|title=Michigan state Rep. Lisa Brown silenced for saying 'vagina'|url=https://www.politico.com/story/2012/06/mich-pols-vagina-monologue-077445|access-date=January 8, 2014|newspaper=Politico|date=June 14, 2012}}</ref><ref name=LisaBrown>Peralta, Eyder (June 14, 2012). [https://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2012/06/14/155059849/michigan-state-rep-barred-from-speaking-after-vagina-comments "Michigan State Rep Barred From Speaking After 'Vagina' Comments"], npr.org; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> Initially, Brown claimed she was denied the opportunity to speak due to religious discrimination, and then later claimed she was silenced for saying "vagina."<ref>[http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2012/06/14/lawmaker-banned-from-speaking-after-referring-to-her-vagina-in-abortion-debate.html Lawmaker Banned From Speaking After Referring to Her Vagina in Abortion Debate], The Daily Best; accessed October 19, 2015.</ref>
A spokesman for Bolger said that Brown was not allowed to give her opinion on a school employee retirement bill because when Brown said "Mr. Speaker, I'm flattered that you're all are so interested in my vagina, but no means no", she had violated the rules of the House and had "failed to maintain the decorum of the House."<ref name=LisaBrown/><ref>[http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/michigan-state-rep-lisa-brown-silenced-vagina-comments-article-1.1096480 "Michigan State Rep. Lisa Brown silenced after 'vagina' comments House Republicans blocked Brown for her remark during a speech blasting an anti-abortion bill"], nydailynews.com; accessed July 30, 2015.</ref>
===2012: Party switch controversy=== In 2012, Bolger worked with then-Democratic Michigan state Rep. Roy Schmidt to switch parties at the filing deadline.<ref name=SchmidtParty>Reens, Nate (May 15, 2012). [http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/05/rep_roy_schmidt_announces_part.html#incart_river_default Grand Rapids Rep. Roy Schmidt announces party switch, long-time Democrat will run as Republican] ''Grand Rapids Press''.</ref> Schmidt expressed dissatisfaction with what he called extreme party bosses in the Democratic party.<ref name=SchmidtParty/> Schmidt recruited a replacement for Democrats, 22-year-old Matt Mojzak, who did not mount a campaign, thus effectively leaving the Democrats without a viable candidate.<ref>Egan, Paul (August 28, 2012). [http://www.freep.com/article/20120828/NEWS06/120828021/House-speaker-Bolger-says-Rep-Schmidt-told-him-fake-candidate-s-residency-legit House speaker Bolger says Rep. Schmidt told him fake candidate's residency was legit] ''Detroit Free Press''.</ref> With no serious Democratic candidate, Schmidt effectively ensured his victory as a Republican.<ref name=MojzakHuff>Abbey-Lambertz, Kate (July 19, 2012). [https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/07/18/roy-schmidt-jase-bolger-michigan-gop-house-_n_1684026.html Roy Schmidt, Jase Bolger, Michigan State Rep And Speaker, Not Charged After Election Scandal"], HuffingtonPost.com; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> Schmidt reportedly offered to pay Mojzak $450 to file as the Democratic challenger. Schmidt later upped the amount to $1,000 when Mojzak announced he was going to withdraw his candidacy.<ref name=MojzakHuff/>
Bolger exchanged text messages with Schmidt, which indicated he was involved in the Mojzak affair.<ref name=ReensTexts>Reens, Nate (July 18, 2012). [http://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/07/read_text_message_exchange_bet.html Read text messages between House Speaker Bolger, Rep. Schmidt plotting party switch, fake candidate] ''Grand Rapids Press''.</ref><ref name=DFP>Egan, Paul (July 18, 2012). [http://www.freep.com/article/20120718/NEWS05/207180438/State-House-speaker-representative-blamed-in-election-candidate-scam?odyssey=tab "State House speaker, representative blamed in election candidate scam"]. ''Detroit Free Press''; retrieved July 20, 2012.</ref> Several independent investigations and a grand jury review exonerated Bolger of breaking any rules.<ref>Oosting, Jonathan (August 9, 2013). [http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/jase_bolger_roy_schdmit_cleare.htm "Bolger, Schmidt cleared in grand jury investigation of party-switch scheme"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140331175637/http://www.mlive.com/politics/index.ssf/2013/08/jase_bolger_roy_schdmit_cleare.htm |date=2014-03-31 }}, ''MLive.com''.</ref> Ingham County Circuit Judge Rosemarie Aquilina wrote that an exhaustive and diligent probe uncovered no crime or wrongdoing, and that an indictment was not warranted.<ref name=CBSDetroit>Eggert, Dave (August 9, 2013). [http://detroit.cbslocal.com/2013/08/09/no-indictment-after-michigan-party-switch-probe "No Indictment after Michigan Party Switch Probe"], ''CBS Detroit''; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref> Kent County Prosecutor Bill Forsyth condemned the scheme as a travesty but could not file charges.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.mlive.com/news/grand-rapids/index.ssf/2012/07/bill_forsyth_roy_schmidt_elect.html|title=Bill Forsyth: Roy Schmidt election scheme is a 'travesty'|work=MLive.com|access-date=2018-07-27|language=en-US}}</ref> Bolger authored an op-ed in the ''Detroit Free Press'' offering his apology to any offended voters and noted his error in judgment.<ref name=apology>Bolger, Jase (July 20, 2012). [http://www.freep.com/article/20120720/OPINION05/120720055/Speaker-Bolger-I-apologizes-to-voters- "Michigan House Speaker Bolger: 'I apologize to voters'"], freep.com; accessed December 20, 2014.</ref>
==Electoral history== {{Election box begin|title=2008 General Election - Michigan's 63rd state House of Representatives District<ref name=Election2008>{{cite news|url=http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/08GEN/08063000.html |title=2008 Official Michigan General Election Results - 63rd District State Representative 2 Year Term (1) Position |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110923031451/http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/08GEN/08063000.html |archive-date=2011-09-23 }}</ref>}} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Republican Party (US) | candidate = '''Jase Bolger''' | votes = 27,641 | percentage = 56.6 | change = +1.4 }} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Democratic Party (US) | candidate = Phyllis Smith | votes = 21,188 | percentage = 43.4 | change = -1.4 }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin | title=2010 General Election - Michigan's 63rd state House of Representatives District<ref name=Election2010>{{cite news |url=http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/10GEN/08063000.html |title=2012 Official Michigan General Election Results - 63rd District State Representative 2 Year Term (1) Position |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140129155235/http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/10GEN/08063000.html |archive-date=2014-01-29 }}</ref>}} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Republican Party (US) | candidate = '''Jase Bolger (I)''' | votes = 20,935 | percentage = 62.8 | change = +6.2 }} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Democratic Party (US) | candidate = Dave Morgan | votes = 12,408 | percentage = 37.2 | change = -6.2 }} {{Election box end}}
{{Election box begin | title=2012 General Election - Michigan's 63rd state House of Representatives District<ref name=Election2012>{{cite news |url=http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/12GEN/08063000.html |title=2012 Official Michigan General Election Results - 63rd District State Representative 2 Year Term (1) Position |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116010228/http://miboecfr.nictusa.com/election/results/12GEN/08063000.html |archive-date=2013-01-16 }}</ref>}} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Republican Party (US) | candidate = '''Jase Bolger (I)''' | votes = 22,196 | percentage = 50.9 | change = -11.9 }} {{Election box candidate with party link | party = Democratic Party (US) | candidate = Bill Farmer | votes = 21,440 | percentage = 49.1 | change = +11.9 }} {{Election box end}}
==See also== * List of Michigan state legislatures
==References== {{Reflist|30em}}
{{s-start}} {{s-off}} {{s-bef|before=Andy Dillon}} {{s-ttl|title=Speaker of the Michigan House of Representatives|years=2011–2014}} {{s-aft|after=Arlan Meekhof}} {{s-end}}
{{MIHouseSpeakers}} {{Portal bar|Michigan}} {{Authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bolger, Jase}} Category:1971 births Category:21st-century members of the Michigan Legislature Category:Catholics from Michigan Category:County commissioners in Michigan Category:Living people Category:Republican Party members of the Michigan House of Representatives Category:People from Charlotte, Michigan Category:People from Marshall, Michigan Category:Politicians from Grand Rapids, Michigan Category:Speakers of the Michigan House of Representatives Category:Western Michigan University alumni