On the one hand, Michigan got a tax hike. On the other hand, minority Republicans (with just two exceptions) stood strong in the House, refusing to vote for it, and making the Democrats cast a bad vote that will cost them. This is the kind of principled stand that will help the GOP win back the legislature next year.

They also forced a concession from the teachers unions that will save the state some money. It’s the beginning of a budget reform process that will not go forward unless Republicans take over again.