Capitol News

The Michigan Legislative Working Group for National Security is calling for an investigation into a recent security breach at Camp Grayling. This follows the discovery of several international students from China photographing military equipment at the site. The federal government has charged five students with lying to investigators and attempting to cover their actions.

Rep. William Bruck, a U.S. army veteran and co-chair of the working group, expressed concern over the issue. "This is exactly the kind of national security concern our group has been working to prevent," he stated. He noted that while the issue has gained national attention, it seems to be overlooked in Michigan.

In response to the incident, the working group sent letters to Governor Whitmer and University of Michigan President Santa Ono, urging action. They also reached out to legislative majority leadership, pressing for more serious consideration of this issue by the Democrat caucus.

Rep. Luke Meerman, another co-chair of the working group, emphasized the seriousness of these concerns. "We have introduced multiple pieces of legislation and several budget amendments to curb activity that presents a threat to our national security, but they’ve not been taken seriously by Democrats," he said.

The letter addressed to University President Santa Ono requests information on current security measures for international students and any additional steps planned after the Camp Grayling incident.

The Michigan Legislature Working Group for National Security consists of Representatives and Senators advocating for stronger protections against foreign influence. Last fall, they proposed a plan aimed at safeguarding Michigan from foreign entities on the federal watch list, including China.

Members of this working group include Reps. Bruck (R-Erie), Meerman (R-Coopersville), Jaime Greene (R-Richmond), David Martin (R-Davison), and Sen. Jonathan Lindsey (R-Allen).