Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said she was hopeful her state’s economy could begin to reopen at the beginning of May as she faces intense criticism for her strict stay-at-home order meant to curb the spread of the coronavirus.
“I am hopeful that come May 1, we will make some steps forward,” the Democrat said during a town hall event Friday, according to Reuters.
Whitmer added that she acknowledged Michiganders are “desperate to get back to work” and no solution is without risk.
Thousands of protesters showed up around the state Capitol in Lansing, Michigan, this week to protest Whitmer’s stay-at-home order to demonstrate against restrictions they argue are too strict and endanger their economic future.
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MUST SEE: Quite a scene in Lansing, Michigan as people protest the state’s stay-at-home order. @WOODTV‘s @LeonHendrix joined @AaronNolanNews on #NexstarNation‘s morning #COVID19 #coronavirus update. pic.twitter.com/l7UkLAth3p
— Austin Kellerman (@AustinKellerman) April 15, 2020
“There is no reason why she can’t be looking at some safe ways to be opening up businesses. Instead of talking about what’s essential and nonessential, let’s talk about what’s safe and not safe,” said Meshawn Maddock, a spokeswoman for the Michigan Conservative Coalition. “Safe businesses and safe workers need to get back to work.”
Several sheriffs in Michigan announced they would refuse to enforce some of Whitmer’s executive orders.
“We write today to inform the public for our respective counties of our opposition to some of Governor Whitmer’s executive orders. While we understand her desire to protect the public, we question some restrictions that she has imposed as overstepping her executive authority,” a letter signed by each sheriff read.
