LANSING – The Michigan Democratic Party released the following statement on behalf of Chair Lavora Barnes:
“Today Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued an executive order that will require Michiganders to wear masks in public places, after a recent increase in cases around the state. The executive order mandates that residents wear masks in indoor public spaces, crowded outdoor public spaces, and requires businesses to refuse entry or service to anyone refusing to wear a mask.
We applaud Governor Whitmer’s leadership on this issue, and know that this action will save countless lives as we battle the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite misinformation that many in the MI GOP are spreading, we know for a fact that mask wearing can significantly reduce the spread of the virus. We know that wearing a mask will protect those around us when in public.
Unfortunately, while the Governor does the work to protect Michigan families and stop the spread of this deadly virus, the republicans are doing everything they can to undermine her leadership. The MI GOP, with big help from Mike Shirkey and others, are trying to strip the Governor of her emergency powers, a reckless and irresponsible move that will put us in danger and could halt our economic recovery. This isn’t about politics. This is about saving lives, stopping the spread of COVID-19 and moving Michigan beyond this crisis. We’re proud of Governor Whitmer’s order to ‘mask up, Michigan.’
