Whitmer Briefing Takes Somber Tone Over Threats, Next Protest

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Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s briefing on the state’s response to COVID-19 took on a more somber tone than previous sessions toward the end during the question and answer period. Right out of the gate came a question on the pledge by the Michigan Militia to help keep a Shiawassee County barber shop open, despite those businesses not yet being include in what can open up. Whitmer says she understands the frustration.

“I also know a lot of people that could use a haircut, yours truly as well as my husband, frankly,” said Whitmer. “But what matters most here is that we are on a trajectory where we have saved lives.”

Whitmer says its crucial that business have customers and employees who survive.

“For people who want to voice their frustration, that’s fine. But I expect people to follow the law. These executive orders are not a suggestion, they’re not optional, they’re not helpful hints. This is an order to prevent the spread of COVID-19.”

Also discussed were the more than a dozen death threats made against the governor in recent days on social media as protesters prepare for another demonstration on Thursday in Lansing.

“The violent, racist, extreme rhetoric that has already been connected to Thursday’s rally, and that was reported in the (Detroit) Metro Times today, I think is… concerning isn’t a strong enough word,” said Whitmer. “And yet, this could be avoided.” The governor called on Republican leaders to do their part to try to “lower the heat.”