Whitmer Says She Will Not ‘Be Bullied’ Into Reopening Amid Outbreak

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is taking her time to reopen the state’s economy amid the coronavirus pandemic, and she is adamant she will not be changing her position no matter the amount of harsh criticism she may receive.

Appearing on CNN’s “New Day,” Whitmer was asked by host Alisyn Camerota what the plan is now that Michigan is seeing an uptick in the number of coronavirus cases.

Whitmer mentioned the executive order she issued prior to the Fourth of July weekend closing indoor service at bars in efforts to scale back reopening.

She explained the state will continue to monitor the numbers and “dial back” if it is necessary.

Whitmer expressed her motivation to reopen the economy, but not at the expense of the lives of Americans.

“I want to reengage this economy more than anyone, but I’m not going to do it if it is too risky to do so,” Whitmer said.

She added, “And that’s why we’re staying focused on the epidemiology. I’m not going to be bullied into moving before it’s safe and if we have to move back, we’re gonna.”

Check out her comments below:

As of Tuesday afternoon, Michigan is reporting more than 73,000 coronavirus cases and over 6,000 deaths.

Acknowledging the uptick in cases, Whitmer reiterated it is crucial to act sooner rather than later.

“Michigan has been on the forefront. We’ve done an incredible amount of work and I would hate to think that the sacrifice that we’ve made could be made in vain some people are losing interest or are dropping their guard. We’ve got to double down right now more than ever,” Whitmer said.

Whitmer went on to make it clear she is ready and willing to “take heat” if it means making the decision to keep the residents of Michigan safe.