On June 25, 2025, musician and avid hunter Ted Nugent brought a concealed firearm into the Michigan State Capitol, violating the building’s weapons ban. Nugent, a Michigan native known for his outspoken support of gun rights and conservative causes, was testifying at a joint House committee hearing on accountability for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. His testimony focused on opposing certain hunting regulations, including deer-baiting policies.
The Michigan State Capitol has enforced a weapons-free policy since 2023, with exceptions only for on-duty law enforcement and legislators with concealed carry permits. According to Michigan State Police (MSP), Nugent entered through the north entrance, where the weapons detection system alerted to a possible firearm. However, the trooper on duty missed the alert until after Nugent had passed through screening. MSP personnel later contacted Nugent, informed him of the policy, and he complied by surrendering the weapon.
State Representative Laurie Pohutsky (D-Livonia), who was present at the hearing, noticed Nugent was armed and raised concerns about the security lapse. In a social media post, Pohutsky called the incident “absurd” and emphasized the importance of enforcing the Capitol’s firearms ban, citing past incidents like the 2020 armed protests. She expressed frustration that no immediate action was taken during the hearing, despite notifications to House sergeants and MSP.
The MSP is investigating the security breakdown to ensure such incidents are prevented in the future. No penalties for Nugent have been announced as of June 27, 2025. The incident has reignited discussions about Capitol security and the enforcement of Michigan’s firearms policies.
Sources: Michigan State Police statements, Detroit Free Press, Michigan Advance
