Three Democrats who hold visible countywide offices have picked their candidate in the race for Michigan open governor’s seat.
Executive Mark Hackel, Prosecutor Eric Smith, and Sheriff Anthony Wickersham gathered at Donut Castle in Warren to endorse former Senate Democratic Leader and Ingham County Prosecutor Gretchen Whitmer Monday morning.
“Gretchen shares the same concerns, and is ready to address issues, that are important to Macomb County residents,” said Hackel. “Providing real solutions to properly fund our roads, educational institutions and mental health programs are some of the priorities she is passionately committed to solving. I support her candidacy and stand ready to help her succeed on behalf of all Michigan residents as our next Governor.”
Smith pointed to Whitmer’s record as a prosecutor.
“Public safety is not political rhetoric for Gretchen Whitmer,” said Smith. “When Ingham County needed a leader to take the reins as county Prosecutor, Gretchen didn’t hesitate to step forward. As prosecutor, she saw victims suffering and worked to bring their families justice. People of Macomb want action. We are at a crucial time in our state. Local governments continue to be severely short-changed in crucial areas like community mental health and road funding. As governor, I have no doubt, she will lead by example for the people of our great county. All of Metro Detroit will have a fighter.”
“Gretchen is a proven fighter who will work with everyone who wants to make sure every Michigander has a path to a high wage skill so they can support their family and retire with dignity. It’s time for Macomb county to unite behind Gretchen so she can get to work solving the problems facing our state,” said Wickersham.
In a prepared statement released following the event, Whitmer addressed one of the hot button issues of this election cycle in Michigan -- roads.
“As governor, I want to focus on the things that will actually make a difference in people’s lives right now. It’s time to fix the damn roads, and I’ve got a concrete plan to get it done with high-quality material and mix so we get the job done the right way, the first time,” she said.
Whitmer is being challenged for the Democratic nomination by Abdul El-Sayed and Shri Thanedar. The winner will advance to the November general election.
-- Macomb Daily Staff