The Democratic-led Senate's forced ouster of two well-trusted, longtime staffers for Republican leaders in the state Senate smells political.

It’s not uncommon for legislative staffers in Michigan to have outside work. Top House and Senate employees in both parties have opened consulting firms or done political jobs on the side over the years.

That’s what prompts concerns about the employment changes surrounding former Senate staffers Meghan Reckling and Jeff Wiggins at the behest of Democratic leadership.

Last week, Reckling said the Senate Business Office abruptly made her decide between continuing to work as chief of staff for Sen. Lana Theis, R-Brighton, or cut ties to her outside companies, including Victory Field Operations, a petition signature gathering firm.

Reckling co-founde

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