Gretchen Whitmer in State of Michigan Archives
On Education:
Our economy demands every child has a great public education
Our economy demands every child has a great public education. Despite the budget crisis caused by COVID, we worked across the aisle to support our public schools. I signed a bipartisan budget that protected our kids from school cuts
and took another step towards a weighted funding formula. That means additional support for: students with special needs, economically disadvantaged students, and English language learners.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Michigan legislature
Jan 27, 2021
On Education:
Tuition-free opportunities for COVID front line workers
I created Futures for Frontliners, modeled after the G.I. Bill after World War II - tuition-free postsecondary education opportunities for the heroes on the front lines of the pandemic. Our frontline workers--everyone who stepped up to
protect us--are heroes. They stayed at work so the rest of us could stay home. More than 82,000 frontline heroes have been accepted into the program. That's over 82,000 lives who will enhance their skill set and earn higher wages.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Michigan legislature
Jan 27, 2021
On Environment:
It's time to rebuild Michigan's water infrastructure
I know you're used to me saying "fix the damn roads." This year, let's also fix the damn road ahead--find common ground to grow our economy and get families and businesses back on their feet. We've kept moving forward on water infrastructure.
Last year, I announced the MI Clean Water plan, a $500 million investment in Michigan's water infrastructure. Direct dollars to communities for safe, clean water to residents.
And it supports over 7,500 Michigan jobs. It's time for the legislature to pass these bills so we can start rebuilding Michigan's water infrastructure.
I will keep working so every family in Michigan has clean, safe water.
Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Michigan legislature
Jan 27, 2021
On Government Reform:
Would be nice to have national strategy working with states
Q: Is that one of the problems here, that tests are being put out on the market, but you're not even being informed about it?
WHITMER: In some cases, yes, we will get tests into our health care providers, and we're dependent on them to let us know that that's happened.
That's not a great way to run this system. It would be nice if we had a national strategy that was working with the states, so every state knew precisely what was coming in.
But we governors are doing the best we can with what we have got. We could use some assistance, though, to make sure that those supply chain issues are addressed.
Source: CNN 2020 "State of the Union" on 2022 Michigan Governor race
Apr 19, 2020
On Homeland Security:
COVID-19 restrictions were aggressive and necessary
Q: Do you have any regrets on any of the restrictions that you have put into place?WHITMER: I don't. And here's why.
You know, Michigan right now has the third highest number of death from COVID-19. And yet, we're the tenth largest state.
We have a disproportionate problem in the state of Michigan. And so, we could take the same kinds of actions other states have, but it doesn't rise to the challenge we're confronting.
And that's precisely why we have to take a more aggressive stand. It's working. We are seeing the curve start to flatten.
Source: Meet the Press 2020 interview on 2022 Michigan Governor race
Apr 19, 2020
On Abortion:
Abortion clinics deemed "essential" during pandemic shutdown
A lawsuit has been filed against Whitmer for keeping abortion clinics open as "essential" businesses during the coronavirus pandemic while sending 15 officers to shut down the speech of pro-life protesters. "While most businesses were forced to
shut down as a result, the governor has refused to order abortion centers in Michigan to close even though abortion is an elective procedure," the legal team explained.
Source: WorldNetDaily on 2022 Michigan Governor race
Apr 5, 2020
On Civil Rights:
When women thrive, we all thrive
When women thrive, we all thrive. However, women of Michigan have been held back by an economy and a state government that does not treat them as equals. Women still struggle with inequity in
Michigan's economy, earning just 74 cents for every dollar their male counterparts earn for the same work. I will stand up for women and turn Michigan into a model state for equality.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Civil Rights:
Fought for same-sex adoptions and domestic partner benefits
Year after year, in the Senate and as a private citizen, I pushed to expand our civil rights laws to include all people regardless of sexual orientation and gender identity.
We drew the line when lawmakers tried to exclude transgender people from our civil rights laws. And I fought for same-sex adoptions and domestic partner benefits.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Civil Rights:
Ensure overseas ballots from service members are counted
Promoting universal voter access, because it is too hard to register and to vote in Michigan, and as a result, fewer people do it. Everyone who applies for a driver's license or state ID should be automatically registered to vote, and any registered
voters should be able to vote absentee or by mail. As a legislator, I fought to ensure valid ballots from our service members overseas were counted, to prevent voters from being turned away at the polls, and to allow same-day voter registration.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Crime:
Your bank account should not determine justice you receive
Level the playing field in our criminal justice system so that the amount of money in your bank account does not determine the level of justice you receive. As Ingham County Prosecutor,
I prioritized rehabilitation programs for nonviolent, first-time offenders to save resources, reduce overcrowding in prisons, and most importantly, to give people a second chance.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Drugs:
Invest in treatment courts to treat addiction
The opioid crisis attacking our communities is a tragedy and a disease. We must take action immediately to expand treatment and recovery services. that help our family members and neighbors who are suffering from addiction. Partner with law enforcement
and pharmacies to expand permanent drug take-back programs to dispose of unneeded controlled substances. Invest in treatment courts to ensure access to the resources we need to treat addiction, including diversion and alternative sentencing.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Education:
Students are preparing for jobs that don't even exist today
Michigan needs a governor who knows how to get things done to fix our schools, so every student has the support, tools and skills they need to compete for high-wage jobs and have full and productive lives. Students are preparing for jobs that don't
even exist today, which means we must teach them how to think critically, to problem solve complex issues and to work as a team. That's what this agenda is all about.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Environment:
Michigan is defined by water; up to us to protect it
Every Michigander deserves the opportunity to be successful, starting with their health. That means protecting the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the soil in which we grow. But disparities in the quality of air and water based on where you
live or on your income, have had a devastating impact on the health of our families and our kids. It is this very injustice that caused the Flint water crisis.Protect the Great Lakes. Not just for our rich heritage, their pristine beauty, or the
nearly one million jobs they help generate for our state, but because it is our responsibility as the stewards of over 20% of earth's freshwater and the groundwater that goes with it. Climate change has impacted our lakes by lowering water tables and
stimulating massive algae blooms. We must also do more to prevent a more aggressive spread of invasive species like Asian carp and lampreys. We in Michigan are defined by our water, and it's up to us to protect it.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Government Reform:
Holding government accountable: Michigan Sunshine Plan
Michigan's lack of transparency and accountability earned us an F on a 2015 Center for Public Integrity's survey. Michigan is now dead last in the nation for state ethics and transparency laws.My Michigan Sunshine Plan will rewrite the rules in
Lansing to work for regular families by making state government more open, transparent, and accountable to taxpayers. It's time to get it done, so we can infuse integrity in Governance and earn back public confidence.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Health Care:
Fund Planned Parenthood, improve rural access to care
Restoring funding to Planned Parenthood so that women and men in low income and rural areas have access to preventative care like screenings and checkups, contraception, and maternity care.
Access to care in rural Michigan by enlisting technology, bringing people together, and harnessing the incredible talent of our state to find solutions to the challenges faced by rural hospitals and care providers.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Homeland Security:
We should be ashamed for neglecting veterans' needs
We should be ashamed when the men and women who stepped up to serve our nation are forced to wait months for the care they earned, or face homelessness when they return home. I have a long record fighting for
Michigan's 700,000 men and women in uniform whose sacrifices keep us safe, and I'll hold government accountable for the lack of respect for our veterans that led to incompetence, neglect, and tragedy at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans.
Improving care by putting our veterans ahead of politics to make sure they get the benefits and medical care they deserve, including mental health services, addiction care, and counseling. One veteran suicide is too many, and we must do
better for our servicemen and women who face the difficult transition of returning home. I'll work to get more medical staff in veterans' homes, increase oversight for service providers, and end the privatization of services.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Jobs:
Fix the Damn Roads: Michiganders need to get to jobs
Michiganders need one good job and we need to be able to get to that job. Our roads are so bad they cost the average driver more than $540 a year, and none of that fixes a single pothole. While politicians in Lansing vote down road funding
solutions for political gain, the dire state of our highways is endangering our people and getting in the way of our economic prosperity. Michigan deserves a governor who will fix the problem and knows how to bring people together to get it done.
To grow our economy and make Michigan a state that businesses move to and can grow in, we must invest in our roads, bridges, water systems, broadband, and electrical grid. Good roads are good for
Michigan families and businesses and infrastructure investment is economic development. We can attract the jobs of the future and help businesses grow right here in Michigan.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Social Security:
Get rid of the state's Retirement Tax
After a lifetime of hard work, we must honor the promises made to our seniors so that they can retire in dignity. But right now working families and seniors are paying higher taxes under Governor Snyder. As governor, I will protect our seniors and
retirees by: Getting rid of the Snyder Retirement Tax, which will put more money in the pockets of Michigan seniors to spend on things like gas, groceries, and prescription drugs--which will help our small businesses grow and create jobs.
Supporting options for independence at home, which should be a reality for more seniors who deserve financial and medical peace of mind. I will stand up to attacks on senior care,
and will fight to improve coordinated medical benefits so that seniors can receive the healthcare they need in the comfort of their own homes for as long as they wish.
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Welfare & Poverty:
Fight urban poverty, end racial disparities in employment
After touring the state and hearing directly from people who face these challenges every day, I have a deeper understanding of the policies our state needs to revitalize our cities, embrace our diversity as a strength and get things done that will help
fight urban poverty.To accomplish this goal, my administration will pursue policies in the following areas:- Pathways to Employment
- Closing the Economic Inequity Gap
- Safe Communities and Affordable Housing
- Ending Racial Disparities
Source: 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Mar 24, 2020
On Civil Rights:
Coronavirus: Exempt places of worship, no jurisdiction
Whitmer touted the "aggressive actions" her state has taken to combat the spread of the virus. The governor was then pressed by "exemption" that groups of 50 or more people can still gather in places of worship, which she herself discourages but pointed
to the "separation of church and state" and that the "Republican legislature" urged her to clarify that the state government had no jurisdiction over religious establishments. "We are encouraging people though do not congregate."
"We can't have half-truths or hyperbole convince people that this isn't to be taken seriously. If you're not serious, you're woefully uneducated about what we are confronting as a nation," she continued. "And that's why I'm trying to implore
everyone to take this seriously. Do your part. Every one of us, whether you're asymptomatic and healthy today or you're someone who is medically vulnerable, has to do their part- washing your hands, social distancing, all of the practices from the CDC."
Source: Fox News Sunday interview for 2020 Michigan Governor race
Mar 22, 2020
On Homeland Security:
Coronavirus: Widespread testing is fundamental & crucial
She disagreed with the White House, who have urged that only those who are symptomatic should be tested, saying that "absolutely" that asymptomatic carriers should be tested. "In Michigan yesterday, there was a report that we've got an infant that
tested positive. We know that our young people are suffering severe lung damage as older people are," Whitmer explained. "There's so much that we need to learn in such a short period of time and testing is a fundamental, crucial component of that."
Source: Fox News Sunday interview for 2020 Michigan Governor race
Mar 22, 2020
On Education:
Double down on investment in early literacy
Michigan ranks in the bottom 10 states for overall literacy. We're doubling down on the commitment to invest in early literacy. We're working to make pre-k universal for kids where test scores are low or poverty is high. And we're providing
better access to childcare for parents who are in school or working full-time. We've tripled the number of literacy coaches in the state. The next step is to have literacy coaches train educators to better identify and support struggling readers.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Education:
Increase number of post-secondary credentials to 60% by 2030
In 2019, I set a goal to increase the number of Michiganders with a post-secondary credential to 60% by 2030. To get there, there's bipartisan legislation called Michigan Reconnect, that will provide tuitionfree skills training and degree programs for
adults. Our business community supports Michigan Reconnect. And here's why: We have over 100,000 in-demand jobs to fill. These are good paying jobs--jobs in construction, IT, and advanced manufacturing. But they demand specialized skills training.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Families & Children:
Extend postpartum care from 60 days to a full year
We will extend postpartum care from 60 days to one full year after giving birth, and move up a woman's first postpartum visit to within three weeks, with a comprehensive visit within 12 weeks. This will help new moms heal, and work through
postpartum depression and anxiety after giving birth. We'll let a woman choose birth control that works for her. A novel idea, I know--we're going to ask a woman what she wants, ensure she can get it in one visit, and provide coverage for it.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Jobs:
Expand right to overtime to tens of thousands of workers
When I was growing up, if you worked more than 40 hours a week, you were paid overtime. It was that simple. It should still be that simple. Right now, only workers making $35,000 or less have overtime rights. That threshold is too low.
So, I've directed the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity to expand the right to overtime pay to tens of thousands of Michigan workers. If you're on the clock, you deserve to get paid.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Principles & Values:
Michiganders expect results; impatience is a virtue
Michiganders are hardworking people. They expect results. They deserve leaders who will work hard... and get things done. They won't accept excuses, and neither will I. I am not here to play games. For those of you who want to keep playing games,
I'm going to press on without you. I'm going to use the power of my office to do what I said I was going to do. Because for me, for Michigan, IMpatience is a virtue.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Technology:
Will act on infrastructure if legislature won't
Michigan roads are among the most beat up and dangerous in the country. We can't ask businesses to invest in Michigan if we refuse to invest in ourselves. I will ask the State Transportation Commission to issue state road bonds, so we can start fixing
the roads now.My Rebuilding Michigan plan is financed without an increase at the gas pump, and it will do three things: save time, money, and lives. Since it doesn't require the legislature to act, we can get started right away. That's important.
Source: 2020 Michigan State of the State address
Jan 29, 2020
On Free Trade:
Important to continue traveling to Israel to support trade
Whitmer is embarking on her first trade mission as she leaves for a five-day trip to Israel. "I look forward to a number of productive conversations on how we can strengthen our ties with our partners overseas and also attract more businesses and
jobs to Michigan," she said. "It's important to continue the tradition of traveling to Israel which previous governors have done. It's an important relationship for our state with our mutual focus on water, cybersecurity, startups."
Source: The Detroit Free Press on 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial race
Nov 17, 2019
On Abortion:
End 24-hour waiting period; fund Planned Parenthood
Q: Abortion: Ban or legal? Support Michigan's 1931 pre-Roe law that criminalizes abortion?Bill Schuette (R): Ban, except for incest, rape, & life of the mother. Enforce state prohibitions.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Legal. End 24-hour waiting period &
pre-Roe ban, protect in state law.
Q: Contraception: Allow employers to withhold contraceptive coverage from employees if disagree with it morally? Stance on related family planning funding?
Schuette: Yes. Views as attack on religious liberty.
Whitmer: No. "We've seen attack after attack" on reproductive healthcare. Require insurance companies to cover contraceptives. Restore low-income family planning funds.
Q: Allow Planned Parenthood public funds for non-abortion health care?
Schuette: No. Joined lawsuit to prohibit Planned Parenthood from receiving funding.
Whitmer): Yes. Restore funding so can provide screenings and checkups, contraception, and maternity care.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Civil Rights:
2013: repeal Michigan's same-sex marriage ban
Q: Support gay marriage?Bill Schuette (R): No. Defended voter-enacted marriage ban as "a simple recognition that biology matters." But will respect Supreme Court decision allowing it.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Introduced 2013 bill to repeal Michigan's same-sex marriage ban, two years before Supreme Court legalized gay marriage.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Crime:
Prioritize rehabilitation efforts for first-time offenders
Q: Prosecute all 17-year-olds as adults & house with adult criminals?Bill Schuette (R): Yes.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Unknown. Prioritize rehabilitation efforts for first-time offenders.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Drugs:
Supports marijuana legalization for adult recreational use
Q: Marijuana: Support or oppose MI legalization initiative, Proposal 1?Bill Schuette (R): Concerned legalization will increase youth access, but will respect voters' will. Led campaign against medical marijuana in 2008 but now supports with proper
controls.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Supports legalization for adult recreational use & expungement & exoneration of cannabis-related criminal histories. Endorsed 2008 marijuana initiative.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Education:
Opposes vouchers: Stop the dismantling of public education
Q: Increase funding for K-12 education? Bill Schuette (R): No statements found on overall funding. Focus on literacy. "Grade schools on an A-F scale, giving schools performance-based grants as incentives."
Gretchen Whitmer (D):
Yes. Expand full-day universal pre-K. More resources for hard-to-educate children. Ensure School Aid Fund money goes to K-12 education, close tax loopholes that erode funding.
Q: Support vouchers to send children to private schools with public money. Expand charter schools?
Bill Schuette (R): Yes.
Use vouchers to send children to any participating school (public, private, religious). Expand charters.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): No. Opposes vouchers. Stronger oversight of charters. "Stop the dismantling of public education."
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Education:
2 years of debt-free post-secondary education
Q: Increase state funding for higher education?Bill Schuette (R): Unclear. Support more trade & vocational offerings. The proposed tax cut would likely reduce general fund, so may risk higher education funding.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Apportion $100 million to give qualifying students 2 years of debt-free post-secondary education, whether in vocational schools or colleges.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Energy & Oil:
Oppose withdrawal from Paris Climate Accord
Q: Consider climate change a critical threat? Limit creation of greenhouse gases? Participate in U.S. Climate Alliance, a coalition of states committed to climate change action?Bill Schuette (R): No. Joined letter arguing that science wasn't settled,
so Exxon wasn't lying about climate change. Opposed "burdensome" EPA regulations and Obama Clean Power Plan.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes.
Opposed Trump withdrawal from Paris Climate Accord. Called on Gov Snyder to join U.S. Climate Alliance. Create state Office of Climate Change.
Q: Government support for renewable energy?
Bill Schuette (R): No. Opposed 2012 initiative to require 25% of electricity production from renewables by 2025.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Strong support for renewables.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Free Trade:
Renegotiate trade deals, but no tariffs on China
Q: Support Trump's imposition of tariffs on Chinese steel and other products?Bill Schuette (R): Yes. Believes Trump has his own "aggressive style" as he works to rebalance trade relationships. "In the end, I think it will be a good deal."
Gretchen Whitmer (D): No. Renegotiate trade deals but fears longlasting negative consequences from new tariffs & chaos caused by Trump's "disorderly rollout."
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Government Reform:
Opposes gerrymandering; opposes voter ID
Q: Support Michigan's redistricting ballot initiative 2 to address charges of partisan gerrymandering?Bill Schuette (R): Opposes initiative. Asked MI Supreme Court to reject for creating "a fourth branch of government."
Gretchen Whitmer (D):
Yes. "Gerrymandering continues to disenfranchise voters in Michigan." Don't let partisan legislators draw political boundaries.
Q: Voting Rights: Support stricter or broader voting and registration rules?
Bill Schuette (R): Stricter. Supported end to straight-ticket voting.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Opposes strict voter ID laws, supports straight-ticket, automatic registration, letting anyone vote absentee.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Government Reform:
Disclose political donors; reverse Citizens United
Q: Require political ads to disclose largest funders? Support Citizens United decision, allowing unlimited political donations from corporations & unions?Bill Schuette (R): Supports candidates releasing tax returns. Backed Americans for Prosperity
not disclosing donors for their political ads.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): As of 2004 supported disclosure of ad sponsors. Reverse "Citizens United on steroids legislation" that lets Super PACS raise and spend unlimited amounts of money in Michigan."
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Gun Control:
Universal background checks; ban assault-style weapons
Q: Support more restrictive gun control legislation? Restrict semi-automatic weapons?Bill Schuette (R): No. Repeal existing state restrictions. Challenged restrictions on semi-automatic weapons. NRA 100% rating.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Universal background checks on gun purchases and ban assault-style weapons. NRA 7% rating.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Health Care:
No work requirements for Medicaid; expand it instead
Q: Support or Repeal the Affordable Care Act (ACA)? Accept Medicaid expansion to subsidize low-income participants? Require people to work to receive Medicaid?Bill Schuette (R): Repeal ACA. Replace with private insurance. Calls work requirements "the
welfare reform of the 21st century."
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Supports ACA. Held "Save Healthcare" rallies and led state Senate negotiations for Medicaid expansion. Opposes work requirements, which remove coverage "when we should be expanding."
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Immigration:
Protect DREAMers from deportation; offer path to citizenship
Q: Support DREAM Act (DACA) recipients who arrived illegally as children, to achieve legal status under certain conditions?Bill Schuette (R): Declined to comment during campaign, but joined 2016 lawsuit to block DACA expansion.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Supports clean DREAM Act that protects Dreamers from deportation & offers a path to citizenship.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Jobs:
Repeal "right-ro-work" law (support union organizing)
Q: Do you support the right-to-work law, preventing unions mandating dues for workers they represent?
Bill Schuette (R): Yes. A "great victory." "I was the right-to-work Attorney General."
Gretchen Whitmer (D): No. Repeal right-to-work law.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Jobs:
Increase minimum wage to $15/hour over three years
Q: Raise the minimum wage from the current $7.25/hr?Bill Schuette (R): Unknown. Would exclude workers on small farms. Opposes prevailing wage law & expanded overtime protection.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Increase to $15/hour over three years.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Tax Reform:
Trump tax cuts help only millionaires & billionaires
Q: Support President Trump's tax cuts? Cut Michigan taxes?Bill Schuette (R): Yes. "I will cut taxes like @POTUS did nationally and make Michigan a growth state." Reduce MI taxes from 4.25% to 3.9%.
Gretchen Whitmer (D):
No. Trump cuts help millionaires & billionaires, not families just trying to get by." Repeal retirement tax. Increase state user fees to pay for infrastructure.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Technology:
Expand broadband with net neutrality
Q: Net Neutrality: Require internet providers to provide all users equal access?Bill Schuette (R): Unknown.
Gretchen Whitmer (D): Yes. Expand broadband. Implement net neutrality through Executive Order.
Source: 2018 CampusElect.org Issue Guide on Michigan Governor race
Oct 9, 2018
On Foreign Policy:
Supports anti-boycott bill against anti-Israel BDS movement
Her stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict has become a relevant topic that may alienate potential voters. In a statement that is no longer available on her campaign website, Whitmer listed resolutions in favor of Israel that she sponsored when
she was a lawmaker. "I strongly support the bipartisan anti-boycott legislation that was signed into law by Governor [Rick] Snyder last year and will do everything in my power to uphold it as Michigan's next governor," she said.
Source: Middle East Eye on 2022 Michigan Gubernatorial race
Sep 19, 2018
On Technology:
We need $3B per year for inadequate infrastructure
Whitmer said access to clean, safe drinking water and roads and bridges in good condition are priorities. "As governor, I will capitalize the state infrastructure bank and task a permanent state infrastructure advisory council with creating
comprehensive, coordinated planning," she said. "Together, we're going to put thousands of Michiganders to work rebuilding our roads, updating our electrical & heating grids and ensuring that everyone has access to clean water & high-speed internet."
Whitmer said current funding levels for infrastructure are inadequate, and that she would begin to address the $4 billion annual funding gap ("far & away the reason why our roads are so dangerous," she said) identified by the infrastructure commission
by investing an extra $3 billion per year up front.
"Recent plans rely on future legislators to pull funding from the state's general fund to make less than adequate investments in infrastructure," she said. "It's a flawed plan that will not work."
Source: BridgeMI.com on 2018 Michigan gubernatorial race
Mar 6, 2018
On Abortion:
Support Planned Parenthood
Restore funding to Planned Parenthood so that women and men have access to preventative
care like screenings and checkups, contraception, and maternity care.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Abortion:
Will stop anti-choice legislation
Whitmer said she would work to stop anti-choice legislation and "continue to protect the investments that we make in our local public health offices-education for young people, access to birth control."
Whitmer hopes Democrats take back the Michigan House but said, "if necessary, I have got the backbone of titanium to hold the line on further attacks eroding women's health care."
Source: Rewire News on 2018 Michigan Governor race
Nov 1, 2017
On Civil Rights:
Guarantee equal pay for equal work
When women thrive, we all thrive. Women in Michigan earn 74 cents for every dollar their male counterparts make for the same work.
As Governor, I will demand equal pay for equal work to support women and their families in an economy that increasingly requires two paychecks to pay the bills and where a growing number of women are the sole income earners.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Civil Rights:
Expand civil rights laws
Year after year, in the Senate and as a private citizen, I pushed to expand our civil rights laws to include people of all genders, identities, and sexual orientations.
We drew the line when lawmakers tried to exclude transgender people from our civil rights laws. And I fought for same-sex adoptions and domestic partner benefits.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Corporations:
Government can help small business thrive
To grow our economy, we must invest in small business incubators so that entrepreneurs have access to workspace, mentors,
and capital, and we must build stronger partnerships between businesses and community colleges.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Drugs:
Addicts need treatment, not punishment
Expand treatment and recovery services that help our family members and neighbors who are suffering from addiction. Invest in treatment courts to ensure access to the resources we need to treat addiction, including diversion and alternative sentencing.
Hold physicians and drug companies accountable because Michigan has more annual opioid prescriptions than people, and we cannot allow pharmaceutical companies to continue perpetuating the crisis with immunity.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Education:
Invest in education; hold charters accountable
I am committed to expanding early childhood education to all Michigan kids. To improve outcomes for all students means boosting instructional hours, respecting and supporting our teachers and staff, and investing in
our classrooms and wraparound services. Charter schools and the businesses that run them must be held accountable. It's time we put much-needed oversight in place to hold charter schools accountable.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Environment:
Environmental policy based on science
Rely on science, facts and truly independent studies to guide how we address the challenges of balancing our environmental impact, jobs, and the sanctity of our waterways. Hiring impartial experts to
oversee and regulate our emissions standards will ensure that scientists, and not corporate interests, are making the decisions that impact our water and air.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Government Reform:
Promote universal voter access
It is too hard to register and to vote in Michigan. Everyone who applies for a driver's license or state ID should be automatically registered to vote, and any registered voters should be able to vote absentee or by mail.
As a legislator, I fought to ensure valid ballots from our service members overseas were counted, to prevent voters from being turned away at the polls, and to allow same-day voter registration.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Health Care:
Support Medicaid expansion
I led negotiations to expand access to healthcare to more than 630,000 Michiganders through the state's Medicaid expansion.
We must keep fighting to address the cost of health care and lower the cost of prescription drugs until everyone has access to an affordable health plan and can afford their treatment.
Source: 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial website GretchenWhitmer.com
Nov 1, 2017
On Corporations:
Shift tax burden to corporations
On taxation: "Let's be clear, everyone knows that in Michigan right now, we are making the poorest folks pay and we have to stand up to corporations that are demanding these huge tax loopholes and make sure
they're paying their fair share and then make sure we're investing that into things like schools and infrastructure," El-Sayed said.
Source: Mining Journal on 2018 Michigan Governor race
Oct 10, 2017
On Budget & Economy:
Most important metric is rising family income
Whitmer says we need to continue on the path toward job creation as well as investments in critical infrastructure and public education. She acknowledges the unemployment rate has fallen--from 14.9% in 2009 to 4.9% in November--but contends
it is not the true measure of success in the state. "I think the most important metric is our family incomes, are they rising," said
Whitmer. "Have they been raised because of the policies that have been put forth in Lansing, and the answer is no.
At the end of the day the most important metric is; does a family in Kalamazoo believe that their paycheck is able to cover the bills that they have."
Source: WWMT-Newschannel-3 on 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial race
Jan 24, 2017
On Crime:
Cleaned up County Prosecutor office after a sex scandal
Whitmer served for twelve years in the State House and Senate. Whitmer, who most recently served for six months as Ingham County Prosecutor after the former prosecutor was arrested in a sex scandal, says she cleaned up that office and has big picture
plans for Michigan.Whitmer says she holds state government mostly accountable for a lack of oversight in the Flint water crisis and says that kind of thing would not have happened on her watch.
Source: WWMT-Newschannel-3 on 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial race
Jan 24, 2017
On Abortion:
Spoke of being raped in opposing "rape insurance" bill
Legislators were trying to ban private insurance companies from covering abortion care, forcing women to pre-purchase extra insurance. Reproductive-rights advocates called it a "rape insurance" bill. Whitmer lambasted the bill in an address that
included the story of her own rape. "It's something I've hidden for a long time," Whitmer continued. "You need to think of the girls that we're raising and what kind of a state we want to be where you would put your approval on something this extreme."
Source: Slate e-zine on 2018 Michigan Governor race
Jan 5, 2017
On Abortion:
No insurance riders to get an abortion covered
Whitmer served in the House from 2001-2006, and in the Senate from 2006-2014, where she became a frequent voice of opposition to Republican policies.When she told her personal story of being raped more than 20 years ago during a 2013 speech on the
Senate floor to illustrate her opposition to a bill that would require people to buy an additional rider to their insurance to get an abortion covered, Whitmer got national attention and a stronger voice on issues surrounding women's health concerns.
Source: Lansing State Journal on 2018 Michigan Gubernatorial race
Jan 3, 2017
On Principles & Values:
A better Michigan is worth fighting for, we can't wait
I'm no stranger to fights. As Ingham County Prosecutor and as Democratic leader in the Senate, I've led a lot of tough ones. Fights to protect workers' rights, fights to level the playing field for everyone, fights to protect kids and to hold government
accountable. The fight was always worth it for what it said to the people we were fighting for. That's why I know we can build a Michigan with opportunities that rival those from our past. We can do better. We deserve better. And we can't wait.
Source: Medium e-zine on 2018 Michigan Governor race
Jan 3, 2017
On Drugs:
Voted NO on medical marijuana
Legislative Summary: - Added to Schedule 2 list: Marihuana, including pharmaceutical-grade cannabis, if it is manufactured, obtained, and dispensed in compliance with this act and as authorized by federal authority.
- Marihuana can
only be obtained for the purpose of treating a debilitating medical condition
- Marihuana must be dispensed under a license issued under this article, with required restrictions.
OnTheIssues definitions:- "Schedule 1" drugs
have a high potential for abuse, & no currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States.
- "Schedule 2" drugs have a high potential for abuse, but has accepted medical treatments, or currently accepted medical use with severe restrictions
- This bill legalizes marijuana only for medical purposes.
Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 22-16-0 on Nov. 13; Sen. Gretchen Whitmer noted NAY; passed House 87-22-1 on Dec. 12; Signed by Gov. Snyder on Dec. 31
Source: Michigan legislative voting records: SB 660
Nov 13, 2013
On Health Care:
Require insurers to treat autism like other conditions
Legislative Summary:Insurers and HMOs shall provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism spectrum disorders. Insurers and HMOs shall not do any of the following: - terminate coverage or refuse to deliver coverage
solely because an individual is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder.
- limit the number of visits an insured person may use for treatment of autism spectrum disorders
- deny or limit coverage on the basis that treatment is educational or habilitative in nature.
- subject coverage under this section to dollar limits, copays, deductibles, or coinsurance provisions that do not apply to physical illness.
Legislative Outcome:Sen. Whitmer voted YEA; passed Senate 29-9-0, March 13; passed House 91-19-0, March 29; became law without governor's signature, April 19.
Source: Michigan Legislative voting records on SB415
Apr 13, 2012
On Government Reform:
No photo ID for absentee voting
Legislative Summary:A person who applies in person to register to vote shall identify himself or herself by presenting an official state identification card issued to that person. The secretary of state shall develop a voter registration
training program for third-party voter registration organizations that teaches the proper procedure for taking a voter registration application.Veto Summary:SB754 precludes voter registration groups from receiving and delivering
registration applications until at least one member of their organization has received training. While our current Secretary of State would be very proactive on offering training, it is important to ensure that future officials provide proper training.
Voting rights are precious and we need to work especially hard to make it possible for people to vote.
Legislative Outcome:Sen. Whitmer voted NAY; \passed Senate 26-11-1, Feb. 14; passed House 66-43-1, June 12; vetoed by Gov., July 3
Source: Michigan Legislative voting records on SB751 & SB754
Feb 14, 2012
On Abortion:
Don't make partial-birth abortion a criminal offense
Legislative Summary:The partial-birth abortion ban act: An individual who knowingly performs a partial-birth abortion and kills a human fetus is guilty of a felony punishable by imprisonment for up to
2 years, or a fine up to $50,000.00, or both. It is not a violation if, in the physician's reasonable medical judgment, a partial-birth abortion is necessary to save the life of a mother whose life.
The spouse of the mother at the time of the partial-birth abortion, or either parent of the mother if the mother has not attained the age of 18, may file a civil action against the physician.Legislative Outcome:
Sen. Whitmer voted NAY; passed Senate 29-8-1, Sept. 21; passed House 75-34-0, Sept. 28; signed by Gov. Snyder, Oct. 11
Source: Michigan Legislative voting records on SB160
Sep 21, 2011
On Energy & Oil:
Promote increased use of alternative fuel technology
Whitmer indicates support of the following principles concerning environment and energy.- Promote increased use of alternative fuel technology.
- Use state funds to clean up former industrial and commercial sites that are
contaminated, unused, or abandoned.
- Support funding for open space preservation.
- Enact environmental regulations even if they are stricter than federal law.
- Prohibit the hunting of mourning doves in Michigan.
Source: VoteSmart Michigan 2004 National Political Awareness Test
Nov 1, 2004
Page last updated: Oct 13, 2021