LANSING — Tonight, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered her first State of the State address, outlining her vision for the state and calling for bipartisan collaboration to address the issues facing Michigan’s working families. In response, state Rep. Sara Cambensy (D-Marquette) issued the following statement:
“It was clear tonight that Gov. Whitmer wants to make Michigan a state that once again invests in people. By investing in education, we can focus on attracting business by talent rather than corporate tax giveaways. By being responsible with how we use our natural resources, we can protect our water and environment. And it’s clear that we will fix our roads and infrastructure and lower car insurance rates by working together and making the people’s priorities our top priorities.
“That’s why it was so important for me to invite a leader from the 109th District who exemplifies the heart of his community. A veteran of the U.S. Army and Munising native, Joe Paquette has tirelessly volunteered in the local public schools, was a long-time local firefighter, and helped advocate against the closure of his local hospital. He is known as ‘Mr. 4th of July’ for his leadership in pulling together one of the best celebrations in the north. Joe always stood up for workers’ rights as a union member of Kimberly Clark, now Neenah Paper, and understood the importance of keeping the mill open. Everywhere you go in Alger County, people recognize and know Joe because of his big heart for helping others. I’m honored to have Joe join me in Lansing today.”
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