Letter from the Editors for Volume 22 (2026)

Dear Readers,

We are honored to present Volume 22 of the Michigan Journal of Public Affairs.

As we began this year’s editorial process, one reality remained at the forefront of our minds: our nation and our world are navigating an era of polycrisis. Between the pressures of political polarization, mounting climate emergencies, and entrenched economic disparities, the challenges facing public servants have never been more complex. In response, we sought a theme that captures both the gravity of these hurdles and the mechanisms available to overcome them: Public Power and the Public Good.

Our goal for this volume is to both inform and inspire. We believe that public advocacy, when backed by robust evidence, remains our most potent tool for collective progress. To that end, Volume 22 features scholarship across an array of domains. Within these pages, you will find inquiries into urban planning, equity in science leadership, food security and access, and more. We are especially proud to highlight the intellectual vibrancy of our own community—of the five articles included in this issue, three were authored by University of Michigan scholars. We extend our deep gratitude to all our contributors for their rigorous, timely research. Housed within the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, the Journal is managed by a multidisciplinary team of graduate students. In an age of rampant disinformation, the role of a scholarly, student-led publication is more critical than ever. Our editorial team has worked tirelessly to ensure that every piece meets the highest standards of empirical rigor and practical utility. To our staff: thank you for your dedication to the integrity of this craft.

Public policy is rarely a finished product; it is an ongoing conversation. It is our hope that the findings presented here do not end with the final page of the journal, but instead spark dialogue in city halls, legislative chambers, and university classrooms. We invite you to read, reflect, and join us in the pursuit of more informed and equitable public service.

Sincerely,

Beth Hartsog and Sam Lynch
Co-Editors-in-Chief, Volume 22
Michigan Journal of Public Affairs