Michiganders should re-elect Gov. Gretchen Whitmer next week. In spite of attacks from conservative news outlets, and even an attempted kidnapping, Whitmer, a Democrat, has stayed strong and promoted policies which allow the state to thrive during her time in office. Promoting safe and legal access to abortion, pushing tax cuts for small businesses, and following through on her campaign promise to fix the roads are among her accomplishments as governor.
Whitmer’s accomplishments, policies, and experience stand in stark contrast to her Republican opponent, Tudor Dixon. Touting herself as an outsider candidate, Dixon earned the endorsement of former President Donald Trump and, thanks to the cult-like state of the Republican Party under Trump’s influence, the GOP nomination. Dixon’s campaign has largely focused on culture wars, modeling a proposed policy after Florida’s infamous authoritarian parental rights in education bill, dubbed the “Don’t say gay” bill for its potentially harmful effects on members of the LGBTQ+ community, intended to prevent discussions of sexuality in schools.
Dixon is also extreme and dangerously uncompromising on reproductive rights. Dixon has said on Twitter that she believes abortion should be permitted only to save the life of the mother and without exceptions in the case of rape or incest. In addition, Dixon supports Michigan’s 1931 law which, if implemented, would mean a near total ban on all abortion, calling it a “good law.”
Dixon’s regressive position on abortion does not reflect the views of Michiganders. According to a Mitchell Research and Communication survey conducted by MIRS, 53% of Michiganders consider themselves either “strongly pro-choice” or “somewhat pro-choice.” Clearly when it comes to reproductive rights, Dixon is out of touch.
Whitmer has come out in strong support of Proposal 3, which would enshrine abortion rights in the state constitution. Her action in suing to prevent the enactment of the extreme 1931 law allowed for Michiganders to continue enjoying reproductive freedom in the post-Dobbs era.
Whitmer is a well-established and accomplished executive in her own right. Whitmer’s campaign to fix Michigan’s infrastructure has repaired massive numbers of roads and bridges, according to her campaign website, and supported Michigan jobs in the process. She has invested in small businesses by cutting taxes while maintaining a balanced budget. Contrast Dixon’s tax plan, which would lower the personal income tax rate by a fixed percentage, disproportionately helping the very wealthiest in the state. Do we really need another try at inequitable and ineffective trickle down economic policy in Michigan?
Clearly, due to her experience, proven track record, and willingness to fight for women, Whitmer is the best choice to lead Michigan as its governor. Vote for Whitmer for fiscal responsibility, reproductive freedom, and an experienced politician.
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