Home » Latest » Headlines » Michigan Residents Flood State Capitol to Protest Whitmer’s Stay-At-Home Order

Michigan Residents Flood State Capitol to Protest Whitmer’s Stay-At-Home Order

2

InfoSearched 22 0 Headlines

6.1

SaveSavedRemoved 2

Hundreds of people angry over Michigan’s coronavirus stay-at-home order protested in the rain outside the state Capitol on Thursday.

The demonstration was smaller than previous rallies, at least initially.

It’s being led by Michigan United for Liberty, a conservative activist group that has sued Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and organized or participated in several protests since early April.

Though state police described the last demonstration as peaceful overall, lawmakers from both parties criticized some protesters for intimidating and threatening tactics.

The state’s Democratic attorney general has said the law will be enforced at Thursday’s rally, including if protesters brandish their guns or ignore police directives.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

What were some of the arguments made by the protesters against the stay-at-home order?

On April 15th, Michigan residents flooded the state Capitol to protest Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s stay-at-home order. The order was put in place on March 23rd to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state.

The protest, dubbed “Operation Gridlock,” drew thousands of demonstrators, many of whom stayed in their cars and honked their horns. Others gathered outside the Capitol building, many without wearing masks or practicing social distancing.

The protest was organized by a conservative group called the Michigan Conservative Coalition, which encouraged protesters to ignore the stay-at-home order and “stand in defiance of the governor’s overbearing and unconstitutional decisions.”

Many protesters carried American flags and signs claiming that the stay-at-home order violated their constitutional rights. Others expressed frustration with Whitmer’s handling of the pandemic, arguing that the order was causing economic hardship and job losses.

While some politicians, including President Trump, have encouraged these protests, others have criticized the backlash against stay-at-home orders. Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading infectious disease expert, has warned that ending the lockdown too soon could lead to another spike in cases.

Governor Whitmer defended the stay-at-home order, stating that it was necessary to save lives and prevent hospitals from being overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. She has also implemented measures to provide financial relief to those affected by the order, including expanded unemployment benefits and a moratorium on evictions.

The protest shines a light on the growing tension between those who prioritize public health and those who prioritize economic health. While it is understandable that many are struggling economically during this difficult time, it is important to remember that staying at home is critical in preventing the spread of COVID-19 and saving lives.

As the pandemic continues to evolve, it is crucial that we work together to find solutions that balance public health and economic stability. In the meantime, Michigan residents should continue to follow the stay-at-home order and take precautions to keep themselves and others safe.