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Each week, we compile and share stories from the past week focused on behavioral health, SUD, social services, and nonprofits centered in Michigan but across the United States. If there are specific topics that interest you, please let us know. This newsletter's information, content, and materials are for general informational purposes only. They do not constitute legal advice or investment advice. At times we may use AI to summarize an article. If something shared needs to be corrected, is misrepresented, or there are gaps in information, please let us know so we can make the necessary corrections.

01 CEO of Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network Steps Down

Eric Doeh, the president and CEO of the Detroit Wayne Integrated Health Network (DWIHN), has resigned after seven years with the organization. DWIHN, which serves over 123,000 individuals in Wayne County, announced that its board has accepted Doeh's resignation. The reasons for his departure have not been disclosed, and representatives from DWIHN have declined to provide further details.

Doeh's tenure at DWIHN began in 2017 when he joined as the chief network and compliance officer. He later became deputy CEO and then CEO in 2021. During his time with the organization, Doeh implemented a healthcare coverage subsidy plan for DWIHN employees, mitigating a 30% cost increase. He also led efforts to provide retention payments to staff and providers, disbursing an additional $4.7 million as part of an overtime plan. Additionally, Doeh was appointed to Michigan’s Mental Health Diversion Council by Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

DWIHN's board acknowledged Doeh's contributions in a press release, highlighting his role in securing grant funding for crisis centers and mobile dispatch teams. The organization is working on identifying Doeh’s replacement and has not yet established his last day. The board expressed gratitude for Doeh's skills, vision, and passion for advancing the organization's mission to serve vulnerable populations in the region.

Top 10 House Districts Most Likely to Flip

109th District (D to R) - Republican Melody Wagner has been persistent in her bids for Marquette’s state House seat, running for the fifth time. Wagner's vote counts have increased significantly, from 1,882 votes in 2016 to 19,438 votes and 47% in 2022. Despite Trump losing this seat by only 100 votes in 2020, Wagner's persistent efforts could make this district a potential flip.
46th District (R to D) - A 20-year-old Democrat who dropped out of the race due to controversy managed to secure 46% of the vote. Biden's strong performance in Jackson precincts and the minimal support for Trump in Blackman Township suggest that Rep. Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson) may face a tough re-election battle, especially if Jackson Mayor Daniel Mahoney campaigns effectively in this 52% Democratic district.
83rd District (D to R) - Republicans are optimistic about their chances in this swing district. Tommy Brann, who has a history of electoral success in Wyoming, has more time to campaign after selling his restaurant shares. However, the Democratic-leaning segment of Grand Rapids could pose a challenge. Current officeholder Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming) has gained positive recognition for his work on public safety, making this race particularly competitive.
58th District (D to R) - Utica Councilmember and broadcast journalist Ron Robinson presents a strong Republican candidate with his public speaking experience. Robinson’s focus on the general election, without significant primary opposition, gives him an advantage. Rep. Nate Shannon (D-Sterling Heights) faces scrutiny over his vote on a controversial hate crime bill, potentially weakening his position in a district that has previously supported Trump.
27th District (D to R)—Rep. Jaime Churches (D-Wyandotte) is expected to face significant Republican opposition, although she has been actively campaigning since December. Churches follows a strategy similar to Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), who has successfully won Downriver with Trump on the ballot. Despite tough votes, her Republican opponents' inexperience may give her more opportunities to connect with voters.
68th District (R to D)
Former Rep. Tim Sneller is running in a less Democratic-friendly district than his previous one. The district includes its base in Burton and significant Republican areas such as Grand Blanc and Davison. Sneller will need strong performance in these regions to challenge Rep. David Martin (R-Davison) effectively.
31st District (D to R) - House Agriculture Committee Chair Reggie Miller (D-Belleville) faces a rematch against Republican Dale Biniecki, who has secured the Farm Bureau endorsement. The Republicans believe they have potentially damaging information about Miller from her time on the Van Buren Township Board, which could influence the race outcome.
103rd District (D to R) - Republicans face a primary battle in this district, while Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) remains unopposed. Grassroots conservative Katie Kniss, who narrowly lost in 2022, is running again. If Kniss wins the primary, her resources may be depleted for the general election against Coffia, who has already raised substantial funds.
28th District (R to D) - Democrats have a strong candidate in Janise Robinson, a special education teacher from Taylor, running in this Downriver district. Rep. Jamie Thompson (R-Brownstown) is well-known in conservative circles but may need more local campaigning efforts to retain her seat.
86th House District (D to R)—The Ottawa Impact movement, which has shifted the political landscape, may impact the Republican brand in West Michigan. Democrats have invested in supporting Abby Klomparens, while Rep. Nancy DeBoer (R-Holland) has faced previous electoral challenges in the area, creating an unpredictable atmosphere in this traditionally conservative district.