Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is revealing the discussions she has had about the possibility of becoming presumptive Democratic presidential nominee Joe Bidenās vice president pick.
During an interview with MSNBC, the Democratic governor shared details about the āopening conversationā she had about her potentially becoming Bidenās running mate.
āIt was just an opening conversation and itās not something that I would call a professional, formalized vetting,ā Whitmer said on Tuesday morning.
She added, āI am making a little bit of time to stay connected to the campaign, but the most important thing that I have to do right now is be the governor of my home state. Thatās all that matters to me in this moment.ā
See Whitmerās remarks below:
Whitmer also discussed whether or not she would be interested in the position. While she did admit that it would be an honor to be selected, she says her focus is on governing the state of Michigan while responding to the coronavirus outbreak.
āThe fact of the matter is. All of my energy is going into helping my state through this crisis, unlike one that weāve seen in 100 years in this country,ā Whitmer said.
She continued, āWe have to get it right and I was elected to be the governor of the state of Michigan. It is the honor of a lifetime and thatās where Iām spending 100% of my energy and focusā
Whitmerās response to the whispers about her as a potential running mate for Biden follows weeks of opposition from Michiganās residents who disapprove of her stay-at-home orders.
Since Whitmer opted to extend the stateās stay-at-home order until the end of May, armed protesters have held demonstrations inside and outside of Michiganās state capitol.
As of Tuesday afternoon, Michigan has over 51,000 positive coronavirus cases and a death toll of at least 4,915.