Protesters have amassed around Michigan’s capitol building in Lansing to demonstrate against Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s latest order that places restrictions on travel, the sale of nonessential items, and more.
The Michigan Conservative Coalition organized Operation Gridlock around the capitol building. Photos and videos posted by local media outlets showed a number of people in their cars with messages while some opted to go outside the building and hold signs.
“We are all concerned for those afflicted with COVID-19. Yes, many of the personal behaviors we have been reminded to use are good practices. Wash your hands. Cover your cough. Stay home if you are sick,” said the organizers on their website. “That said, Michiganders are fed up!”
The protesters have said they are upset with the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” order aimed at combating the spread of the CCP (Chinese Communist Party) virus, a type of novel coronavirus that emerged in mainland China last year.
The order, implemented last weekend, includes limits on what types of goods stores can sell and a ban on travel from one residence to another residence, including vacation properties, rental properties, or second properties inside Michigan.
The protesters said that the order infringes upon residents’ Constitutional rights.
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer listens to Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) in Clawson, Michigan, on March 18, 2019. Paul Sancya/File Photo via AP
“We can get this rally done and stay within the social distancing guidelines,” said Marian Sheridan, with the Michigan Conservative Coalition, reported WLNS. “Citizens are frankly tired of being treated like babies. As adults, we now know what needs to be done to stay safe. We also believe the liberal attack on the economy is becoming a serious threat right now. Join us in Lansing. We need to stop the madness and have a plan to re-open Michigan’s economy before it is too late.”
Michigan’s order drew widespread attention when “The View” co-host Meghan McCain criticized Whitmer’s order and shared a photo on Twitter that allegedly showed a Walmart in Michigan blocking the sale of child car seats.
“Guess it’s good I don’t live in Michigan – otherwise how would I transport my child home from the hospital @GovWhitmer ?” McCain wrote on Twitter. “Are you going to ban cribs next? Being pregnant during this time is insanely stressful – we are all doing our best. Shame on you for doing this @GovWhitmer.”
Whitmer wrote in response that the state’s ban on nonessential items does not encompass car seats.
“Hi Meghan! Our Stay Home, Stay Safe executive order does not ban the purchasing of car seats for children … Wishing your family well, and happy Easter!” she said on Twitter.
Jack Phillips is a breaking news reporter who covers a range of topics, including politics, U.S., and health news. A father of two, Jack grew up in California's Central Valley. Follow him on X: https://twitter.com/jackphillips5
