Governor Whitmer’s Statement on President Trump’s July 16 Speech

LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement on President Trump’s speech of July 16, 2026: 

   “Michigan elections are safe and secure – any suggestion otherwise is designed to undermine our voters’ basic rights. For decades, our voting systems have been rigorously tested, certified, and subject to strict standards before they are ever used in an election. Election officials here in Michigan work year-round to ensure every eligible voter can cast a ballot, and that only eligible voters do so. Secretary of State Benson and our election administrators are prepared and will continue to protect the fundamental right to vote. 

   “Furthermore, the results of the 2020 election have been repeatedly reviewed and consistently upheld as accurate. Conspiracy theories about the 2020 elections must come to an end. Tonight, President Trump also made claims about Michigan intended to suggest our voting system is somehow rigged. It isn’t, and his claim has been debunked by experts time and time again. 

   “We should continue to trust our hard-working election officials across the state, follow the facts, and respect the constitutional role states play in administering our elections.” 

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