Your MLive news to know today, Jan. 7, 2026

Influenza is surging in Michigan, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Insights into his year’s flu season is one of five must-read stories to kick off your morning on Wednesday, Jan. 7.

Flu cases surge in Michigan

Michigan has reached “very high” flu-like illness activity status as of the week ending Dec. 27, according to the CDC.

Eighteen states, including Michigan, reported the highest activity levels.

Read reporter Justin Hicks takeaways at this link.

Woman’s arrest at GR protest grabs national attention

Jessica Plichta, a 22-year-old protester, was arrested on January 3 in downtown Grand Rapids during a demonstration against U.S. actions in Venezuela.

The arrest happened while she was being interviewed by WZZM. She was approached by police officers and arrested on camera.

Plitchta was held at the Kent County Jail and later released.

Reporter John Tunison wrote about the arrest in this story.

Duggan’s governor campaign will court ‘forgotten’ residents

Former Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan is campaigning for governor as an independent after leaving the Democratic Party, emphasizing outreach to voters outside Detroit.

Duggan describes his approach as listening to rural voters who feel neglected, aiming to connect with their concerns similarly to how he engaged Detroit residents during his mayoral campaign.

Reporter Danielle James summarized Duggan’s first press conference after leaving the Detroit mayoral office.

Lawsuit against Michigan’s new 24% marijuana tax to proceed

A lawsuit against Michigan’s 24% wholesale marijuana tax, effective Jan. 1, was allowed to proceed by Court of Claims Judge Sima G. Patel.

The Michigan Cannabis Industry Association and businesses like PG Manufacturing argue the tax may violate the intent of the 2018 Michigan Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act.

The tax was enacted to generate $420 million in revenue for road projects under Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s initiative and passed with bipartisan support.

Reporter Gus Burns wrote about the lawsuit at this link.

Lions close season with powerful locker room moment

Detroit Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell expressed deep appreciation for his team’s effort following their 19-16 victory over the Chicago Bears in Week 18, which concluded their 2025 season.

The Lions came back strong after a losing streak, demonstrating resilience despite having no playoff aspirations.

Reporter Kory Woods wrote about the season’s conclusion at this link.