History of Gretchen Whitmer in Timeline
Gretchen Whitmer is an American politician and lawyer serving as the 49th governor of Michigan. A Democrat, she served in the Michigan House of Representatives (2001-2006) and Michigan Senate (2006-2015) prior to her governorship.
1945: Enactment of the Emergency Powers of Governor Act
The Emergency Powers of Governor Act, passed in 1945, granted the governor broad powers to address emergencies. This act, while intended to provide flexibility during crises, later became a point of contention due to concerns about executive overreach.
August 1971: Gretchen Whitmer's Birth and Family Background
Gretchen Esther Whitmer was born in August 1971 in Lansing, Michigan, the eldest of three children. Her parents, Sharon H. "Sherry" Reisig and Richard Whitmer, were both attorneys, with her father holding prominent positions such as head of the Michigan department of commerce and president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
August 23, 1971: Gretchen Whitmer is Born
On August 23, 1971, Gretchen Esther Whitmer was born in Lansing, Michigan. She would go on to become a prominent lawyer and politician.
1976: Enactment of the Emergency Management Act
The Emergency Management Act, enacted in 1976, established a framework for managing emergencies in Michigan. This act aimed to balance executive authority with legislative oversight, outlining procedures for declaring and responding to emergencies.
1985: Gretchen Whitmer Begins High School at Forest Hills Central High School
From 1985, Gretchen Whitmer attended Forest Hills Central High School near Grand Rapids, where she participated in softball and track and field.
1988: Richard Whitmer Becomes President and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
In 1988, Gretchen Whitmer's father, Richard Whitmer, assumed the role of president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
1989: Gretchen Whitmer Graduates from Forest Hills Central High School
In 1989, Gretchen Whitmer graduated from Forest Hills Central High School.
1993: Gretchen Whitmer Graduates from Michigan State University
In 1993, Gretchen Whitmer graduated from Michigan State University with a Bachelor of Arts in communications, initially aspiring to be a broadcaster.
1998: Gretchen Whitmer Graduates Law School
Gretchen Whitmer earned her Juris Doctor, magna cum laude, from Michigan State University's College of Law in 1998. She was a member of the Michigan State Law Review.
1999: Gretchen Whitmer Elected Chair of East Lansing Transportation Commission
In 1999, Gretchen Whitmer was elected as the chair of the East Lansing Transportation Commission.
2000: Gretchen Whitmer's Entry into Politics
Gretchen Whitmer's political journey began in 2000 when she was elected to the Michigan House of Representatives, marking her first foray into public service.
2000: Gretchen Whitmer Campaigns for Michigan House of Representatives
In 2000, Gretchen Whitmer launched her campaign for the Michigan House of Representatives' 70th district, advocating for education and healthcare reform and environmental protections.
2001: Gretchen Whitmer Begins Her Tenure in the Michigan House of Representatives
Gretchen Whitmer's career in the Michigan House of Representatives began in 2001, representing a pivotal step in her political journey.
2002: Gretchen Whitmer Re-elected to the Michigan House of Representatives
Gretchen Whitmer secured re-election to the 69th House district of the Michigan House of Representatives in 2002.
2002: Birth of First Daughter and Death of Mother
Gretchen Whitmer experienced significant life events in 2002. She became a mother for the first time, giving birth to her eldest daughter. Sadly, shortly after this joyous occasion, she faced the loss of her mother, who passed away from glioblastoma.
2003: Gretchen Whitmer Introduces Bill to Raise Alcohol Taxes
In 2003, Gretchen Whitmer put forth a bill in the Michigan House to increase taxes on alcohol with the aim of enhancing fire protection services within the state. This proposal garnered support from then-governor Jennifer Granholm.
2004: Gretchen Whitmer Re-elected to the Michigan House of Representatives
Gretchen Whitmer secured re-election to the Michigan House of Representatives in 2004 and served as vice chair of the Michigan House Appropriations Committee.
November 2005: Virg Bernero Becomes Mayor of Lansing
In November 2005, Virg Bernero was elected mayor of Lansing, creating the vacancy that Gretchen Whitmer would later fill.
2005: Gretchen Whitmer Named Most Effective Democrat of the Michigan House
Gretchen Whitmer's performance in the Michigan House earned her recognition as the Most Effective Democrat in 2005.
March 2006: Gretchen Whitmer Wins Special Election for Michigan State Senate
In March 2006, Gretchen Whitmer emerged victorious in a special election for the Michigan State Senate.
2006: Gretchen Whitmer Elected to the Michigan Senate
In 2006, Gretchen Whitmer's political career reached new heights when she was elected to the Michigan Senate.
2006: Richard Whitmer Retires from Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
In 2006, Richard Whitmer, Gretchen Whitmer's father, retired from his position as president and CEO of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan after a long tenure.
2008: Divorce from Gary Shrewsbury
In 2008, Gretchen Whitmer and her first husband, Gary Shrewsbury, made the decision to end their marriage and got divorced.
2010: Gretchen Whitmer Re-elected to the Michigan State Senate
Gretchen Whitmer was re-elected to a full term in the Michigan State Senate in 2010.
2011: Marriage to Marc P. Mallory
Gretchen Whitmer embarked on a new chapter in her personal life in 2011 when she married dentist Marc P. Mallory. Mallory, a Republican with fiscally conservative and socially liberal views, brought three sons from a previous marriage to the family, creating a blended family with Whitmer and her two daughters.
2011: Gretchen Whitmer Becomes First Female Democratic Leader in Michigan Senate
In 2011, Gretchen Whitmer made history by becoming the first woman to lead a party caucus in the Michigan Senate, assuming the role of Senate Democratic Leader.
2012: Passage of "Right-to-Work" Law
In 2012, while Whitmer was not yet governor, Michigan passed a controversial "right-to-work" law. This law impacted union membership and financing by allowing employees in unionized workplaces to opt out of paying union dues, even if they benefited from union representation.
2012: Open Letter to NRA President on School Violence
In 2012, Whitmer penned an open letter to Wayne LaPierre, the President of the National Rifle Association, which was published on HuffPost. The letter addressed potential actions to prevent school violence following the tragic Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting.
2013: Medicaid Expansion Advocacy and Leadership
In 2013, as Senate minority leader, Whitmer played a crucial role in passing Michigan's Medicaid expansion by securing the necessary Democratic votes.
2013: Gretchen Whitmer Shares Her Story of Sexual Assault
In 2013, during a debate on abortion rights, Gretchen Whitmer bravely shared her personal experience of being sexually assaulted, garnering national attention and sparking important conversations.
2014: Gretchen Whitmer Barred from Running for Re-election
Due to term limits, Gretchen Whitmer was unable to seek re-election to the Michigan State Senate in 2014, marking the end of her tenure in that legislative body.
2015: Gretchen Whitmer Concludes Her Time in the Michigan Senate
In 2015, Gretchen Whitmer's time in the Michigan Senate came to an end due to term limits.
May 11, 2016: Gretchen Whitmer Selected as Ingham County Prosecutor
On May 11, 2016, Gretchen Whitmer was chosen by the judges of Michigan's 30th Judicial Circuit Court to serve out the remaining term of the outgoing Ingham County Prosecutor, Stuart Dunnings III, following his resignation due to misconduct charges.
June 21, 2016: Gretchen Whitmer Sworn in as Ingham County Prosecutor
On June 21, 2016, Gretchen Whitmer was officially sworn in as the Ingham County Prosecutor, assuming the position for a six-month term.
July 2, 2016: Stuart Dunnings III Resigns as Ingham County Prosecutor
On July 2, 2016, Stuart Dunnings III officially resigned from his position as Ingham County Prosecutor following charges of misconduct in office and prostitution-related offenses. He later entered a guilty plea and received a sentence of one year in jail and two years of probation.
July 2016: Gretchen Whitmer Issues Report on Predecessor's Offenses
Gretchen Whitmer released an 11-page report in July 2016 assessing the impact of her predecessor's offenses on the Ingham County Prosecutor's office. The report concluded that employees hadn't been pressured to compromise cases and expressed confidence that any issues were resolved with the departure of the previous prosecutor.
2016: Gretchen Whitmer Serves as Ingham County Prosecutor
For a period of six months in 2016, Gretchen Whitmer served as the prosecutor for Ingham County, taking on a significant role in the justice system.
December 31, 2016: Gretchen Whitmer's Term as Ingham County Prosecutor Ends
On December 31, 2016, Gretchen Whitmer's six-month term as Ingham County Prosecutor concluded.
January 3, 2017: Gretchen Whitmer Announces Gubernatorial Candidacy
On January 3, 2017, Gretchen Whitmer formally announced her intention to run for governor of Michigan in the 2018 election.
August 2018: Gretchen Whitmer Wins Democratic Nomination for Governor
Gretchen Whitmer secured the Democratic nomination for governor of Michigan in August 2018, emerging victorious from a primary race that included Abdul El-Sayed and Shri Thanedar.
2018: Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights and Endorsement
Whitmer has consistently advocated for expanding Michigan's civil rights law to encompass LGBTQ+ individuals. Her stance garnered endorsements from the Human Rights Campaign during her gubernatorial campaigns.
2018: Gretchen Whitmer's Gubernatorial Campaign Focuses on "Fundamentals"
Throughout her 2018 gubernatorial campaign, Gretchen Whitmer emphasized her commitment to improving Michigan's "fundamentals," prioritizing areas such as education, infrastructure, and water systems. She engaged in two debates with her Republican opponent, Bill Schuette, the incumbent attorney general of Michigan.
2018: Endorsement of Proposal 1 at Hash Bash
While campaigning for governor in 2018, Whitmer voiced her support for Proposal 1, which aimed to legalize recreational cannabis in Michigan, during her appearance at Hash Bash.
2018: Healthcare Advocacy and Policy Positions
In 2018, Whitmer advocated against Republican efforts to remove protections for patients with preexisting conditions. She supported expanding Medicaid coverage and opposed single-payer healthcare at the state level while supporting Medicare for All at the federal level. She also aimed to reduce prescription drug costs and repeal Michigan's drug immunity law.
2018: Gretchen Whitmer Elected Governor of Michigan
Gretchen Whitmer's victory in the 2018 Michigan gubernatorial race against Republican nominee Bill Schuette marked a significant triumph in her political career.
February 2019: Reorganization of State Government Departments
February 2019 saw Whitmer issuing an executive order to restructure certain state government departments. Notably, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality was renamed as the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
2019: Gretchen Whitmer Becomes Governor of Michigan
In 2019, Gretchen Whitmer was sworn in as the 49th governor of Michigan, marking a significant milestone in her political career.
2019: Opposition to Immigrant Detention Center
In 2019, Whitmer canceled the sale of a former state prison intended for use as an immigrant detention center. This decision stemmed from the purchasing company's inability to guarantee it wouldn't house families separated under the Trump administration's policy.
2019: Creation of Clean Water Public Advocate Office
In 2019, Whitmer established the office of the Clean Water Public Advocate and enforced Michigan's updated lead and copper drinking water rule, recognized for its stringent standards.
2019: Support for Undocumented Immigrant Driver's Licenses
In 2019, Whitmer expressed support for providing driver's licenses or government IDs to undocumented immigrants.
2019: Celebration of Recreational Cannabis Legalization
In 2019, as governor, Whitmer celebrated the successful legalization of recreational cannabis in Michigan through a video message at Hash Bash.
2019: Budget Negotiations and Infrastructure Investments
In 2019, during her first term, Governor Whitmer prioritized infrastructure, allocating billions of dollars in her budget proposal. The process involved negotiations with the Republican-controlled legislature, requiring concessions from both sides to reach an agreement.
2019: Establishment of Michigan Reconnect Program
Whitmer established the Michigan Reconnect program in 2019, which garnered bipartisan support. This program allows Michiganders aged 25 or older, without a college degree, to enroll tuition-free in an associate degree or professional skills certificate program.
2019: Call for Common Sense Gun Legislation
Whitmer joined forces with 11 other governors in 2019 to advocate for "common sense gun legislation."
February 2020: Selection to Deliver the Democratic Response to the State of the Union Address
Governor Whitmer was chosen to deliver the Democratic response to President Donald Trump's State of the Union address in February 2020. This selection highlighted her rising national profile and the significance of Michigan as a swing state in the upcoming presidential election.
February 2020: Gretchen Whitmer Delivers Democratic Response to State of the Union
Gretchen Whitmer was selected to deliver the Democratic response to President Donald Trump's 2020 State of the Union Address in February 2020, highlighting her prominence within the Democratic Party.
March 2020: Implementation of Stay-at-Home Order in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
As the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, Governor Whitmer issued a stay-at-home order for Michigan in March 2020, aiming to mitigate the virus's transmission. This decision reflected the challenging circumstances and unprecedented public health crisis faced by the state and the nation.
April 2020: Legal Challenge to Stay-at-Home Order Rejected by Michigan Judge
A Michigan judge dismissed a legal challenge against Governor Whitmer's stay-at-home order in April 2020, affirming the state's authority to prioritize public health amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The ruling upheld the order's constitutionality and emphasized the government's responsibility to protect citizens from the highly contagious and deadly virus.
April 2020: Protests Against COVID-19 Restrictions and Public Health Measures
In April 2020, Michigan witnessed an eight-hour protest organized by right-wing groups, including the Michigan Conservative Coalition and Michigan Freedom Fund, opposing the COVID-19 restrictions imposed by Governor Whitmer. The demonstration, attended by thousands of protesters at the Michigan State Capitol, highlighted the tensions and differing viewpoints surrounding the government's response to the pandemic. Notably, despite the protests, public opinion polls conducted around that time indicated that a majority of Michiganders supported Governor Whitmer's handling of the crisis.
April 2020: Armed Protest at Michigan State Capitol
In April 2020, armed protesters entered the Michigan State Capitol, an event that later influenced Whitmer's call for a weapons ban in the building.
May 2020: Edenville Dam Failure and Investigation
The Edenville Dam in Michigan collapsed in May 2020, prompting Governor Whitmer to initiate an investigation led by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). However, this decision sparked criticism from various stakeholders, including Republicans, flood victim advocates, and dam safety experts, who raised concerns about the agency investigating its own potential role in the incident. Subsequently, the US House of Representatives launched a separate inquiry, demanding answers from EGLE and FERC within a tight timeframe.
May 2020: Portrayal by Cecily Strong on Saturday Night Live
Governor Whitmer's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, coupled with President Trump's critical remarks about her, thrust her into the national spotlight. Her growing prominence was evident in her portrayal by Cecily Strong on Saturday Night Live in May 2020, satirizing the political climate surrounding her governorship.
June 1, 2020: Lifting of Stay-at-Home Order and Transition to Phase Four Reopening
Governor Whitmer lifted Michigan's stay-at-home order on June 1, 2020, after multiple extensions, signifying a move to "phase four" of the state's reopening plan. This decision marked a gradual easing of restrictions implemented to curb the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.
September 2020: Criticism and Legal Challenges to COVID-19 Orders and Emergency Powers
Governor Whitmer faced criticism from Republicans regarding her use of the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act to implement COVID-19 orders during the early stages of the pandemic. This opposition culminated in legislative attempts to repeal the act, which she vetoed in December 2020. However, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled in October 2020 that the 1945 act was unconstitutional, effectively rendering it unenforceable. Furthermore, a citizen-led initiative, "Unlock Michigan," successfully gathered enough signatures to trigger a repeal of the 1945 act, which the legislature approved in July 2021.
October 8, 2020: Indictment of Wolverine Watchmen Members
On October 8, 2020, an indictment against six men linked to the Wolverine Watchmen, a Michigan-based militia group, was unsealed. The charges were related to an alleged plot to kidnap Whitmer and violently overthrow the Michigan government.
October 2020: Michigan Supreme Court Ruling on Emergency Powers
The Michigan Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling in October 2020, declaring the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act unconstitutional. The court found that the act granted the governor excessive power to declare and extend emergencies without legislative oversight. Additionally, the court unanimously determined that the 1976 Emergency Management Act did not empower Governor Whitmer to issue or renew executive orders related to the COVID-19 pandemic after 28 days without legislative approval.
October 2020: Foiled Kidnapping Plot Against Gretchen Whitmer
In a shocking turn of events in October 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation intervened to thwart a kidnapping plot orchestrated by a far-right militia group targeting Gretchen Whitmer.
December 2020: Veto of Legislation Repealing the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act
Governor Whitmer vetoed legislation aimed at repealing the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act in December 2020. This decision reflected her stance on maintaining executive authority during times of crisis, despite mounting criticism and legal challenges.
2020: Endorsement of Joe Biden in the Democratic Presidential Primary
In a significant political move, Governor Whitmer endorsed Joe Biden in the 2020 Democratic presidential primary, just days before Michigan's primary election. She also assumed a prominent role as a national co-chair for Biden's campaign, further solidifying her support.
2020: Executive Order Expanding Access to Mail-in Voting
In 2020, Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive order that made it easier for Michiganders to vote by mail. This decision aimed to increase voter participation and ensure a safe and accessible election during the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention
Governor Whitmer delivered a notable speech at the 2020 Democratic National Convention, praising Joe Biden's track record and criticizing President Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her prominent role at the convention fueled speculation about a potential cabinet position in a Biden administration.
2020: Vetting as a Potential Running Mate for Joe Biden
Governor Whitmer underwent vetting by Joe Biden's team as a potential vice presidential candidate for the 2020 election. Her status as the governor of a key swing state bolstered her prospects. While she was reportedly among the finalists, Biden ultimately chose Kamala Harris. Nevertheless, the consideration significantly elevated Whitmer's national standing.
2020: Surprise Medical Billing Legislation
Whitmer signed a bipartisan bill in 2020 to end surprise medical billing in Michigan, requiring providers to negotiate out-of-network emergency service costs with insurers instead of patients.
2020: Opposition to Exclusion of Undocumented Immigrants from Census
Whitmer opposed Trump's plan to exclude undocumented immigrants from the 2020 census.
2020: Launch of Futures for Frontliners Program
Whitmer introduced the Futures for Frontliners program in 2020, granting tuition-free access to associate degrees or professional certification programs for Michiganders who served as essential workers during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Launch of the Rebuilding Michigan Program
Whitmer announced the Rebuilding Michigan program in 2020, allocating $3.5 billion for over 120 road and bridge projects over five years. The program prioritizes major roads with significant economic impact and traffic volume.
January 9, 2021: Decision to Remain as Governor of Michigan
Governor Whitmer announced on January 9, 2021, that she would not pursue a position in the Biden administration, opting instead to continue serving as the governor of Michigan. Her decision reflected a commitment to her current role and the state's ongoing challenges.
January 2021: Call for Weapons Ban in Michigan State Capitol
Whitmer called for a complete ban on weapons within the Michigan State Capitol in January 2021. This followed an incident in April 2020 where armed protesters entered the Capitol.
January 2021: Election as Vice Chair of the Democratic National Committee
Governor Whitmer was elected as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee in January 2021. This position solidified her influence within the Democratic Party and her role in shaping national politics.
January 2021: Gretchen Whitmer Assumes Vice Chair Role in Democratic National Committee
Gretchen Whitmer's influence within the Democratic Party was further solidified in January 2021 when she became one of the vice chairs of the Democratic National Committee.
February 2021: Second Portrayal by Cecily Strong on Saturday Night Live
Governor Whitmer's continued relevance in national politics was underscored by a second portrayal by Cecily Strong on Saturday Night Live in February 2021. The recurring sketches reflected her sustained presence in the public consciousness.
May 2021: Apology for Violating Social Distancing Guidelines
Governor Whitmer issued an apology in May 2021 after being photographed with a large group of individuals not wearing masks or practicing social distancing at an East Lansing restaurant. The incident violated the state's social distancing regulations, which limited indoor dining to six people per table.
June 22, 2021: Lifting of All COVID-19 Restrictions
Citing declining COVID-19 cases and widespread vaccine availability, Governor Whitmer lifted all COVID-19-related restrictions in Michigan on June 22, 2021. This decision marked a significant milestone in the state's recovery from the pandemic.
July 2021: Repeal of the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act
Following a citizen-led initiative and legislative approval, the 1945 Emergency Powers of Governor Act was officially repealed in July 2021. This outcome significantly curtailed the governor's authority to act unilaterally during emergencies.
September 2021: Efforts to Repeal Michigan's Abortion Ban
In September 2021, Whitmer began collaborating with the state legislature to repeal a 90-year-old law that banned abortion in Michigan. This was a proactive measure to safeguard abortion rights in the state should Roe v. Wade be overturned.
October 2021: Expansion of Property Tax Exemptions for Small Businesses
Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation in October 2021 to expand property tax exemptions for small businesses, resulting in an estimated $75 million in savings.
December 2021: SALT Tax Cap Workaround for Small Businesses
In December 2021, Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation creating a SALT tax cap workaround for small businesses, providing a total of $200 million in tax savings.
December 20, 2021: Signing of House Bill 4603
On December 20, 2021, Whitmer signed House Bill 4603, a bipartisan measure that established a $1 billion economic development fund aimed at attracting manufacturers to Michigan.
2021: Oxford High School Shooting
The Oxford High School shooting in 2021 served as a tragic catalyst for the push to pass stricter gun control legislation in Michigan.
2021: Positive Credit Rating Actions and Economic Outlook
In 2021, Michigan received credit rating outlook upgrades from S&P and Fitch due to its responsible fiscal management and post-pandemic economic recovery. Fitch further upgraded Michigan's credit rating in 2022, citing its strong fiscal position and economic growth.
2021: Success of Futures for Frontliners Program
By 2021, the Futures for Frontliners program had received applications from more than 120,000 individuals, highlighting its success as a first-of-its-kind initiative.
2021: Support for Afghan Refugees
In 2021, Whitmer declared Michigan's readiness to accept Afghan refugee families following the Taliban takeover. She highlighted Michigan's history of multiculturalism and commitment to supporting refugees.
April 2022: Acquittal in Whitmer Kidnapping Plot Trial
In April 2022, two men, Harris and Caserta, were acquitted of all charges related to the plot to kidnap Whitmer. The defense successfully argued that they were entrapped by federal authorities.
August 2022: Convictions in Whitmer Kidnapping Plot Trial
August 2022 saw two individuals, Fox and Barry Croft Jr., found guilty of conspiracy to kidnap in connection with the plot against Whitmer.
October 2022: More Convictions in Whitmer Kidnapping Plot
Three more individuals, Morrison, Musico, and Bellar, were convicted in October 2022 of providing material support for a terrorist act in relation to the kidnapping plot.
2022: Gretchen Whitmer Re-elected as Governor of Michigan
Gretchen Whitmer secured a second term as governor of Michigan in 2022, defeating Republican nominee Tudor Dixon.
2022: Advocacy for LGBTQ+ Rights and Endorsement
Whitmer has consistently advocated for expanding Michigan's civil rights law to encompass LGBTQ+ individuals. Her stance garnered endorsements from the Human Rights Campaign during her gubernatorial campaigns.
2022: Re-election for a Second Term as Governor of Michigan
In 2022, Gretchen Whitmer secured a second term as the Governor of Michigan, defeating Republican candidate Tudor Dixon. Her victory, with a margin of nearly 11 points, surpassed expectations, especially considering the anticipated challenges faced by Democrats in swing states during that midterm election cycle.
2022: Considered as Potential Presidential Candidate
Following her reelection in 2022, Whitmer was considered as a possible presidential candidate if Biden chose not to pursue a second term in 2024.
2022: Support for Michigan Proposal 3
Whitmer showed strong support for Michigan Proposal 3 in 2022, a ballot proposal aimed at amending the Michigan Constitution to include the right to reproductive freedom. The proposal passed with a significant margin in the 2022 election.
2022: Securing Water Infrastructure Investments
Whitmer secured $1.7 billion for water infrastructure improvements as part of a $5 billion infrastructure deal in 2022. The funding supports local governments in upgrading drinking water systems, replacing lead service lines, and addressing other contaminants.
2022: Overturning of Roe v. Wade
Following the Supreme Court's overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, the legal status of Michigan's 1931 statute criminalizing abortion procedures and drugs became unclear.
2022: Record-High Rainy-Day Fund and Improved Fiscal Health
Under Whitmer's leadership, Michigan's rainy-day fund reached an all-time high of $1.6 billion in 2022. The state also paid down nearly $14 billion in debt and transitioned from a projected deficit to a surplus.
2022: Positive Assessment of Michigan's Roads
The Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council's 2022 report highlighted significant improvements in Michigan's road conditions, attributing the progress to increased investments.
2022: Democratic Control of Michigan Legislature
The 2022 Michigan elections resulted in a significant shift in power dynamics, with the Democratic party gaining control of both the Senate and House of Representatives. This change provided Governor Whitmer with greater leverage to advance her legislative priorities.
2022: Michigan's Low Tax Burden
Michigan had the fifth-lowest state and local tax burden in the nation and the lowest in the Midwest in 2022, according to the Tax Foundation.
2022: Establishment of Michigan Achievement Scholarship
In 2022, Whitmer signed bipartisan legislation establishing the Michigan Achievement Scholarship, a significant program aimed at expanding access to affordable college education.
2022: Prescription Drug Price Reduction Measures
In 2022, Whitmer signed bipartisan bills to lower prescription drug prices by mandating pharmacists to disclose cheaper generic drug options and requiring pharmacy benefit managers to be licensed and transparent about drug pricing.
2022: Infrastructure Investments and Streamlining Initiatives
In 2022, Whitmer signed a $5 billion infrastructure deal, including $400 million for roads and bridges. She also signed an executive order to expedite infrastructure project permitting and established the Michigan Infrastructure Office for improved coordination and funding allocation.
January 2023: State of the State Address and Policy Agenda
With a Democratic majority in both the Senate and House of Representatives following the 2022 Michigan elections, Governor Whitmer outlined an ambitious agenda during her State of the State address in January 2023. Her proposals included tax reforms such as repealing the retirement tax and increasing the earned income tax credit, educational initiatives like universal pre-kindergarten and increased education funding, environmental measures promoting renewable energy, social justice reforms encompassing the repeal of the 1931 abortion ban and the addition of sexual and gender identity protections to the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act, and stricter gun control laws.
March 2023: Repeal of "Right-to-Work" Law and Reinstatement of Prevailing Wage Law
In March 2023, Whitmer made history by signing legislation that repealed Michigan's "right-to-work" law, making it the first state in 58 years to reverse such a law. She also signed a bill reinstating a prevailing wage law, requiring state-contracted projects to pay union-level wages, demonstrating her strong support for unions and workers' rights.
March 2023: Expansion of Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
In March 2023, Whitmer signed legislation expanding the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity in employment and housing. The bill received bipartisan support.
April 2023: Passage of Gun Violence Prevention Legislation
April 2023 marked the passage of a package of six bills aimed at curbing gun violence in Michigan. Whitmer, a strong supporter of these measures, signed them into law.
April 2023: Repeal of Michigan's 1931 Abortion Ban
Whitmer signed a bill in April 2023 that repealed Michigan's 1931 ban on abortion, effectively ensuring continued access to abortion within the state.
April 25, 2023: Co-chair of Biden's Reelection Campaign
On April 25, 2023 Gretchen Whitmer was named co-chair of Biden's reelection campaign.
May 2023: Signing of Red Flag Law
In May 2023, Whitmer signed a red flag law, which came into effect in February 2024, further strengthening gun control measures.
November 2023: Liz Whitmer Gereghty Ends Congressional Campaign
Liz Whitmer Gereghty, Gretchen Whitmer's sister, decided to end her campaign for Congress in New York's 17th congressional district in November 2023. She had been running for the Democratic nomination but chose to endorse former congressman Mondaire Jones instead.
November 2023: Signing of Election-Related Bills
In November 2023, Gretchen Whitmer signed a series of bills aimed at protecting and improving the election process in Michigan. These bills included expanding automatic voter registration, criminalizing threats against poll workers, and requiring disclaimers on AI-generated political ads.
2023: Induction into the Michigan Women's Hall of Fame
In recognition of her accomplishments and contributions, Gretchen Whitmer was honored with induction into the prestigious Michigan Women's Hall of Fame in 2023.
2023: Enactment of $1 Billion Tax Cut Package
Whitmer signed a $1 billion tax cut package in 2023, repealing the retirement tax, increasing the Michigan Earned Income Tax Credit, and allocating corporate taxes for business incentives.
2023: Continued Monitoring of Road Conditions
The 2023 report by the Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council noted a slight decline in road conditions while acknowledging that it remained an improvement compared to previous years.
2023: Call to Expand Michigan Reconnect Program
During her 2023 State of the State Address, Whitmer advocated for the expansion of the Michigan Reconnect program, proposing to lower the minimum age of eligibility to 21.
February 2024: Red Flag Law Takes Effect
The red flag law, signed by Whitmer in May 2023, went into effect in February 2024, enabling the temporary removal of firearms from individuals deemed a danger to themselves or others.
March 2024: Hinting at 2028 Presidential Run
In March 2024, during a speech in Washington D.C., Whitmer hinted at a possible presidential run in 2028 by saying "See you in 2029."
2024: Signing of Bill Regulating Political Disinformation Campaigns
Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill in 2024 designed to combat political disinformation spread through online platforms. This legislation focused on regulating "materially deceptive media", particularly AI-generated content, by mandating clear disclaimers on such materials.
2024: Liz Whitmer Gereghty Runs for Congress
Liz Whitmer Gereghty, Gretchen Whitmer's sister and a school board trustee, decided to enter the political arena herself in 2024. She launched a campaign for Congress in New York's 17th congressional district, a swing district then held by Republican Mike Lawler.
2030: "60 by 30" Goal
Whitmer's "60 by 30" goal aims to address workforce talent shortages by ensuring that 60% of working-age adults in Michigan possess a skill certificate or college degree by 2030.