Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) is announcing another crackdown on social distancing guidelines as coronavirus cases begin to uptick in her state yet again.
Whitmer took to Twitter on Wednesday evening with a series of tweets announcing an amended version of Michigan’s Safe Start Order.
According to the Democratic governor, the decision follows the release of new data that suggests the rise in coronavirus cases is a result of “social gatherings.”
Whitmer also announced new limitations on indoor gatherings along with the re-closure of bars across the entire state of Michigan.
“Tonight, after an uptick of [COVID-19] cases due to social gatherings, I amended Michigan’s Safe Start Order [and] issued revised workplace safeguards,” Whitmer tweeted. “As of July 31st, statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people [and] bars will be closed for indoor service across the state.”
Tonight, after an uptick of #COVID19 cases due to social gatherings, I amended Michigan’s Safe Start Order & issued revised workplace safeguards. As of July 31st, statewide indoor gatherings will be limited to 10 people & bars will be closed for indoor service across the state.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 30, 2020
The Democratic lawmaker acknowledged that while the decision she has made is a difficult one, she believes that it is necessary due to the public health crisis the state is facing.
“I’ve said this from the start — these are difficult decisions, but I will do what is necessary to protect the brave men and women on the front lines, avoid overwhelming our healthcare system, and save lives,” Whitmer tweeted.
The health of our communities and economy depends on each of us doing our part. Please, practice social distancing, wear a mask, and encourage those around you to do the same.
— Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 30, 2020
Read more: https://t.co/PtOtHBgSnR
Whitmer’s latest decision comes months after the state’s previous coronavirus shutdown. She faced heightened criticism from Republican lawmakers and even death threats from some people who opposed the strict shutdown.
In fact, many who protested the previous stay-at-home orders stormed Michigan’s federal buildings with firearms as they demanded that the order be lifted.
However, Whitmer refused to back down. As a result of her unwavering stance, the state did manage to mitigate the spread of the virus. Although previous reports suggested Michigan initially had the highest coronavirus death rate, the state’s virus spread had slowed significantly.
There are more than 88,900 confirmed coronavirus cases in the state of Michigan, as of Thursday morning.
