Gov. Whitmer provides update on COVID-19 response

During a press conference Tuesday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer said she asked the Trump Administration for a nationwide mask mandate and a federal recovery plan. She also reminded Michiganders to return their absentee ballots.

During her press conference on the response to the COVID-19 crisis Tuesday, Governor Whitmer said she applauded President Donald Trump's pro-mask statements last week but asked him to take it a step further.

"I applaud his statement and urge him to embrace a nationwide mask order. Back up that statement and let's take action because COVID-19 doesn't stop at a state border, it doesn't observe party lines. This is an insidious virus that has hurt us all and damaged our economy," Whitmer said.

Governor Whitmer also urged Congress to help state and local governments because the state is predicting a $6 billion shortfall over two years.

She also reminded voters to return their absentee ballot as soon as possible. All ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day, August 4.