DETROIT, Michigan — A new statewide poll commissioned by the Detroit Regional Chamber suggests many Michigan voters underestimate how poorly the state ranks nationally on key economic and education indicators.
The survey of 600 registered voters, conducted by The Glengariff Group between Jan. 27 and Feb. 2, found respondents consistently believed Michigan ranked in the middle of the pack among the 50 states. In reality, several key measures place the state much lower.
Participants estimated Michigan ranked around 25th in the share of residents with college degrees. The actual ranking is 33rd. Reading performance was perceived at about 26th, but Michigan stands at 44th nationally. Average income per person was thought to rank 27th; it is closer to 40th. The state’s ability to attract high-tech jobs and its unemployment rate were both believed to be near the middle, yet both rank around 45th.
Richard Czuba, president of The Glengariff Group, said voters “have no clue” how Michigan compares nationally. Chamber CEO Sandy Baruah described the situation as a long-term decline, warning that per capita income and educational performance have slipped significantly over a generation.
The chamber argues the data should serve as a wake-up call for lawmakers and business leaders, urging greater focus on workforce development, education reform, and infrastructure investment, including what it calls a “K-12 + 2” strategy emphasizing post-secondary training.
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