Robert Gordon, Michigan’s former health department director, has taken steps to reshape the very system he once managed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Early in the crisis, he issued numerous sweeping directives aimed at controlling the situation, but these actions have raised questions about legality and authority.
Michael Van Beek, research director at the Mackinac Center for Public Policy, noted that many people have been concerned about whether the health department overstepped its bounds during this time. Gordon’s recent social media post supports calls for reforming state administrative systems. He emphasized the need for government to improve and better serve residents.
In a post, Gordon responded to Jennifer Pahlka, author of “Recoding America.” She highlighted how outdated procedures and systems, built from past crises, do not fit our modern world anymore. She argued that the government must confront these issues, as they now face pressures from private sector leaders dealing with inefficiencies.
During his time at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Gordon had broad authority. Van Beek remarked that Gordon extended his administrative powers in ways that hadn’t been seen before in Michigan. In July 2022, he mentioned that over 30 laws grant extensive emergency powers to public officials, further emphasizing the sweeping changes made during the pandemic.
For example, an epidemic order issued by Gordon in April 2020 mandated compliance not just with the governor’s directives but also with informal FAQs not formally sanctioned through standard rule-making. This raised concerns about transparency and accountability.
Simultaneously, he introduced emergency rules that significantly increased fines for rule violations, stating that such measures were necessary to protect public health. This approach led to lasting consequences, as some orders lacked expiration dates, giving Gordon broad discretion and authority over public action.
Gordon left his position in January 2021, reportedly receiving a $155,000 payout under a nondisclosure agreement, which sparked speculation about his departure. Though the details around his exit remain murky, it received media attention in March 2021, coinciding with a notable shift in restaurant regulations.
As conversations regarding government reform continue, Gordon’s actions serve as a focal point. In today’s climate, the need for adaptability and effectiveness in government systems is more apparent than ever, echoing sentiments shared on social media about the pressing need for modern governance.
For more insights on government reform strategies, explore resources from the [Mackinac Center for Public Policy](https://www.mackinac.org/).
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Whitmer, COVID, Michigan
