Senate D's Target Trump Energy Policies; GOP Calls Resolution ‘Political Theater’

(Source: MIRS.news, Published 03/25/2026) Senate Democrats adopted a resolution urging President Donald Trump and Congress to reverse federal energy policies they say are driving up fuel and utility costs, prompting sharp criticism from Republicans who dismissed the move as partisan messaging that will not lower prices.

The resolution, introduced by Sen. Darrin Camilleri (D-Trenton), lays blame for rising energy costs on actions taken by the Trump administration.

In the resolution, Democrats point to a series of cost increases affecting both consumers and agricultural producers. Gas prices in Michigan have climbed to their highest levels since August 2024, while the national average price of diesel fuel has risen by more than $1.40 per gallon since early March, according to SR104. Lawmakers also cited a surge in fertilizer costs, including more than a 30% increase in urea prices, which they said is placing added strain on farmers heading into the spring planting season.

The resolution also notes a broader 13% increase in energy costs nationwide since the start of Trump’s second administration, arguing that families are facing higher bills at a time of economic uncertainty.

During floor debate, Democrats framed the issue as one directly affecting household budgets and business costs across the state. Camilleri said Michiganders are now paying more than $4 per gallon for gasoline and upwards of $5 per gallon for diesel fuel, increasing the cost of commuting, shipping goods and running farms and small businesses.

“For a lot of families, this is about whether they can afford to get to work or put food on the table,” Camilleri said, adding that rising fuel costs are contributing to higher prices for everyday goods.

Later in the day, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids) issued a release titled, “Every Senate Democrat Votes To Lower Skyrocketing Gas Prices, Every Republican Opposes.”

“When you go to fill up your car tonight, you have Donald Trump to thank for the shocking prices at the pump,” Brinks said. “By marching into another country with no plan and no backing from Congress, he’s plopped us into yet another expensive conflict while the American people deal with the costs. Michigan families cannot afford this. Shame on Senate Republicans for not having the backbone to stand up for their constituents.”

Democrats also criticized federal energy decisions they say have added to the cost burden. The resolution calls out the U.S. Department of Energy’s order to keep Consumers Energy’s J.H. Campbell coal plant operating past its planned May 2025 closure, arguing the move has cost ratepayers hundreds of thousands of dollars per day while prolonging reliance on an aging, polluting facility.

Additionally, the measure faults congressional Republicans for eliminating renewable energy tax credits and programs through the so-called “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” arguing the rollback has slowed the transition to lower-cost energy sources and shifted costs onto consumers.

The resolution calls on Congress to pass a war powers resolution to end U.S. involvement in Iran, which Democrats argue has contributed to global oil price increases. It also urges federal leaders to restore renewable energy programs, allow utilities to retire costly coal plants and take broader action to bring down energy costs.

Republicans, however, pushed back forcefully during debate, arguing the resolution ignores state-level policies they say are driving up costs and restricting energy supply.

Sen. Ed McBroom (R-Waucedah Twp.) criticized the resolution’s focus on fertilizer prices, noting that nitrogen-based fertilizers are produced using natural gas and arguing that the Democrats passed energy reform last term that limits natural gas development and is contributing to higher costs.

“It’s quite obvious … the lack of consistency,” said McBroom, accusing Democrats of advancing policies that restrict energy production while blaming federal officials for rising prices.

Senate Minority Leader Aric Nesbitt (R-Lawton) called the resolution a “joke” and “political theater,” arguing it would have no real-world impact on energy affordability.

“This doesn’t lower costs for working families,” Nesbitt said, contending that Democratic-backed energy policies – including renewable energy mandates – will increase costs and reduce reliability.

GOP lawmakers also pointed to ongoing disputes over Enbridge’s Line 5 pipeline and broader state regulatory actions, arguing those issues are central to Michigan’s energy challenges and should be addressed before assigning blame to federal policymakers.

Despite the criticism, the Democratic majority approved the resolution, 18-17. Resolutions only need a majority of those present to pass.

While the measure does not carry the force of law, it will be formally transmitted to the President, congressional leadership and Michigan’s congressional delegation as a statement of the Senate’s position, underscoring the partisan divide over energy policy as costs remain a top concern for Michigan residents and businesses.