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With a government shutdown looming, Michigan union leaders and educators rallied at the state Capitol, urging lawmakers to reach a budget deal before the fiscal year ends on October 1. The impasse threatens funding for schools, public services, and the state’s credit rating. Union leaders called for an equitable, worker-focused budget that avoids cuts to education and essential programs. They criticized state Republicans for prolonging the stalemate, while warning that federal funding reductions tied to Trump’s spending plan make a fair state budget even more urgent. The Legislature remains deadlocked despite efforts from Governor Whitmer to broker a compromise.