Representing Selfridge in the Michigan Senate, Hertel has secured over $60 million for the base and continues to lead on additional investments
LANSING, Mich. (April 29, 2026) — Today, the Michigan Senate passed their 2027 state budget proposal, aiming to lower costs, protect residents from harmful federal decisions, and grow an economy that benefits all Michiganders. Included in the proposal is a $152 million investment for Selfridge, championed by Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores), who represents the Harrison Township base in the state Senate and serves as Chair of the committee responsible for crafting the Military and Veterans Affairs budget.
At the conclusion of the budget’s passage, Sen. Hertel released the following statement:
“Selfridge is not just an asset to our lakeshore community, but an asset to our entire state and our nation. The men and women who serve there play a critical role in protecting our country while helping drive our economy and support jobs here at home. That’s why I’ve made it a top priority to fight for the resources needed to modernize the base. This investment will keep Michigan competitive and ensure Selfridge remains a cornerstone of our national defense for generations to come.”
This $152 million investment builds on funding secured by Sen. Hertel in previous budgets to the tune of more than $60 million. These funds helped successfully secure the promise of a new fighter mission composed of 20 F-15 EXs and a KC-46A refueling mission, which requires the base to undertake a multi-million-dollar project to expand and reroute the runway, in addition to making other infrastructure improvements. The resources allocated in the Senate’s budget proposal would secure the final funds needed to finish the project and ensure the timely arrival of their new mission assignments beginning in 2028.
Sen. Kevin Hertel speaks with base personnel at Selfridge Air National Guard Base as they celebrate the groundbreaking of a new airplane hangar on May 15, 2023.
In February 2026, Sen. Kevin Hertel and other state legislators tour Selfridge with Brigadier General Leah V. Voelker, Commander of the 127th Wing.
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