GRETCHEN Whitmer defeated Bill Schuette to become her home state's governor.
The Michigan politician's campaigns are centered around healthcare, infrastructure, and education.
Who is Gretchen Whitmer?
Born on August 23, 1971, Gretchen Whitmer is the 49th governor of Michigan.
Hailing from her home state's city of Lansing, Governor Whitmer was first elected to the position in November 2018.
Before winning her first gubernatorial race, she served her home state in several other positions.
Whitmer's previous positions include:
- Member of the Michigan House of Representatives (January 2003 to March 2006)
- Member of the Michigan Senate from the 23rd district (March 2006 to January 2015)
- Minority Leader of the Michigan Senate (January 2011 to January 2015)
- Prosecuting Attorney of Ingham County (July 2016 to December 2016)
- Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee
In November 2022, she was re-elected to a second term.
Regarding her second gubernatorial victory, Whitmer told her supporters: "Holding this office has been the honor of my life.
"I’m so grateful to have had this opportunity for the last four years.
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"Building a Michigan where everyone can get ahead is what really matters right now, more than ever."
She added: "We are going to move this state forward and I'm excited for all the work we’re going to do together.
"Michigan's future is bright and we’re about to step on the accelerator."
Is Whitmer a Democrat or Republican?
Since the beginning of her career, Whitmer has been a member of the Democratic Party.
Regarding her choice of parties, she says: "I can tell you we stayed focused on the fundamentals.
"Whether it’s fixing the damn roads, or making sure our kids are back on track after an incredible disruption in their learning, or just simply solving problems and being honest with the people.
"A governor can’t fix global inflation. But what we can do is take action to keep more money in people’s pockets, protect our right to make our own decisions about our bodies."
What has Whitmer said about the 2024 presidential election?
Since Joe Biden announced his reelection bid, Whitmer has been vocal about her support for his and Kamala Harris' 2024 campaign.
"I don't foresee any change in this race, and the president and vice president have my full support," she told .
"I think what we've seen from the president is an eagerness to get out and about.
"I think he's shown he's got the energy and is ready to take this on.
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"We have seen a manufacturing renaissance, driven by Kamala Harris and Joe Biden's investments in American workers and industry.
"Companies are investing in America and especially in Michigan in a big way, let's keep it going!"