LANSING — Following Secretary of State and Democratic nominee for governor Jocelyn Benson’s announcement that Michigan Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks will join her campaign as the Democratic candidate for Lieutenant Governor, Michigan Democratic Party Chair Curtis Hertel issued the following statement: 

“Congratulations to my good friend and former colleague, Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, on her selection to join Jocelyn Benson’s campaign. I’m confident she will make a strong partner to Jocelyn and an excellent Lieutenant Governor for the people of Michigan.

“Winnie has an unlikely story, and one that only she could write. Working as a nonprofit caseworker, she never planned to enter politics. But when public service called, she stepped up for her community and ran for office as a write-in candidate, ultimately securing the Democratic nomination and winning a tough general election. Winnie doesn’t shy away from challenging issues or complex problems, she gets to work and fights to deliver for Michigan. 

“As Senate Majority Leader, Winnie has worked tirelessly to make life better for Michiganders across the state—whether it’s cutting $1 billion in taxes for working people, expanding access to healthcare, protecting reproductive freedom, restoring workers’ rights, or investing in our public schools. 

“While John James and Jay DeBoyer stand in lockstep behind Donald Trump’s price-hiking policies, Jocelyn and Winnie will fight to lower costs and raise wages for Michigan families. There is no one better suited to serve as our next Lieutenant Governor, and Michigan Democrats are fired up to elect Jocelyn Benson, Winnie Brinks, and a Democratic trifecta in November.”

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