As the election nears, Democratic gubernatorial nominee Jocelyn Benson embarks on a strategic bus tour, aiming to galvanize support across the state. With the “Driving Down Costs” tour, Benson is not only introducing her campaign policies but also rallying alongside other prominent figures in the Democratic Party.
Initiating the Tour with Support
On Thursday, in East Lansing, Benson’s tour was inaugurated with the presence of term-limited Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks. Whitmer joined Benson and her running mate on the first leg of the tour, emphasizing the importance of voter turnout and the Democrats’ efforts to secure wins in the upcoming midterms.
Democrats’ Optimism and Strategy
Expressing confidence about the midterms, Whitmer remarked, “We pull out all the stops. If the kids get hungry, feed them something out of the microwave, they’ll be fine. But they won’t be fine if we come up short.” Her comments highlight the Democratic Party’s proactive approach, as they aim to retain their influence in the state’s political landscape.
In a strategic move, some Republican candidates have sought alignment with popular Democratic policies, despite having opposed them initially. Whitmer noted, “They want to be associated with it, even if they voted against it. And so, I think they’re playing fast and loose and trying to tell people that they’re better collaborators than they’ve actually been.”
Bus Tour’s Broader Impact
Benson’s bus tour is not just about her gubernatorial campaign; it also spotlights various candidates for the state House and Senate. Senate Majority Leader Brinks mentioned that Democrats are “prepared for trifecta 2.0,” referencing a past period of Democratic control across the state government.
Republican Critique
Meanwhile, John James, the Republican gubernatorial candidate, has criticized the Democratic efforts. A spokesperson for James stated, “a slogan on the side of a bus can’t erase years of higher bills, higher taxes, and failed leadership.” This underscores the contentious nature of the campaign season as both parties vie for voter support.
Whitmer, however, remains steadfast, suggesting that her policies have resonated well with voters. “It helps every Democrat who’s running for any office right now in the state, and some Republicans who are trying to be them,” she asserted.
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