Skip to content

'I hope he leads by trying to unite people': Whitmer on the election

Governor and her lieutenant brace for the second round of Donald Trump
ap23353821703095
'I wish president-elect Trump the best of luck,' said Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in a statement.

NEWS RELEASE
OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
*************************
LANSING -- Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt.-Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II issued the following statements on the 2024 election results.

Statement from Gov. Whitmer 

“The American people have spoken. I wish president-elect Trump the best of luck. After a peaceful transfer of power, I hope he leads by trying to unite people, including those who did not vote for him or do not support him. That's what a president must do for the good of our country.

“I want to thank Vice-President Kamala Harris for running an incredible campaign. I was proud to support her and grateful to the countless staff and volunteers who put their all into this campaign because they love our country. I also want to thank President Joe Biden for his leadership in the White House, and congratulate senator-elect Elissa Slotkin, Rep.-elect Kristen McDonald Rivet, and Michigan State Supreme Court justice-elect Kyra Harris Bolden and justice-elect Kimberly Ann Thomas on their victories.

“As governor of the great state of Michigan, my job remains the same no matter who is in the White House. I am focused on getting things done that make a real difference in people’s lives. With the new majority in the Michigan State House, that work will continue. As governor, I’ve signed more than 1,400 bipartisan bills and six balanced, bipartisan budgets. I’m willing to work with anyone who is serious about solving problems, and I look forward to collaborating with the incoming majority on our shared goals from infrastructure to economic development. I want to thank Speaker Joe Tate for his leadership over the last two years and for everything he and his caucus did on the fundamental, kitchen-table issues. 

“Now that the election is behind us, let’s remember that our nation is full of patriots—Democrats, Republicans, and Independents. Our children go to the same schools; we cheer for the same teams; listen to the same music; and love our family and our neighbors equally. If you love Michigan, you must love your fellow Michiganders—no matter what. Our mutual respect and common humanity are not up for debate.

“As we move forward, let’s remember that we are a nation of good, kind people that have more in common with each other than not. Finally, let’s root for the success of the new administration and keep working together to get things done. Because we’re Americans—that’s what we do.”

Statement from Lt.-Gov. Gilchrist

“Through a safe, secure election, Michiganders have made their voices heard. My best wishes to president-elect Trump, and my thanks to Vice President Kamala Harris for running an incredible campaign.

“I am also proud of the movement we built through Democratic campaigns up and down the ballot that is committed to making a difference and delivering real change for Michigan families. Countless Michiganders made the choice to get involved, exercise their civic rights, and articulate their vision for a bright future where everyone can succeed. Working together to achieve that vision goes beyond any single day, election, or party—it is an unfinished project we must pass on to future generations.

“Let us continue Standing Tall for Michigan.”

*************************