Mike Rogers Criticized for Collecting State Pension Despite Wealth

Mike Rogers’ Pension Collection Raises Eyebrows Amid Political Campaign

Republican politician Mike Rogers, who boasts a net worth of $14.6 million, has come under scrutiny for drawing income from a government pension while continuing his political pursuits.

Rogers, who spent 20 years in public service as a Michigan state legislator and U.S. Congressman, retired in 2015 and has since been involved with corporate boards. Having previously run for the U.S. Senate in Michigan in 2024, he is once again vying for a Senate seat.

Financial disclosures reveal that Rogers received $125,600 from a Michigan Legislature pension between 2022 and 2025. His total earnings from the pension could amount to $275,000 if he has been collecting it annually since becoming eligible in 2018.

The Detroit News recently highlighted the underfunded status of the Michigan Legislature pension, indicating a potential taxpayer bailout. The pension plan closed to new entrants in 1997.

Upon leaving the Michigan Legislature, Rogers initially opted for a retirement date of January 3, 2001, securing a higher pension payout. However, he reverted the date to December 31, 2000, following accusations of impropriety.

In 2025, Rogers also became eligible for the U.S. Congress pension. However, Senate candidates are not mandated to disclose federal retirement income, leaving it unclear if he benefits from this source.

Although collecting multiple pensions while earning a salary is permissible, critics argue that this practice, known as “double dipping,” raises ethical concerns.

Indiana Sen. Mike Braun previously commented on the issue, stating, “It’s time we make Washington more like the private sector and the best place to start is to end taxpayer-funded pensions.” Braun and Rogers served together in the House.

During his tenure in Congress, Rogers consistently voted to protect lawmakers’ pension benefits while supporting reductions in military pensions. He opposed a 2012 measure to stop pensions for legislators who become highly-paid lobbyists, and supported budget proposals in 2013 and 2014 that cut military pension benefits, sparing only disabled veterans.

Rogers is currently the sole Republican candidate in the race for Michigan’s U.S. Senate nomination. The Democratic contender will be determined in the upcoming August 4 primary.