Politics

Buttigieg rallies Michigan Democrats to support Biden and Harris

By Jake Beardslee · February 9, 2024

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg visited Grand Rapids, Michigan on Wednesday to rally support for President Biden and other Democratic candidates ahead of the state’s February 27 primary election, according to WWMT-Kalamazoo. Speaking to a crowd of Democrats at the Kent County Democratic Party headquarters, Buttigieg highlighted his own recent move to Michigan, joking about the state’s never-ending construction projects.

The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana shared a personal story about President Biden’s support when Buttigieg’s child was hospitalized in Grand Rapids during a demanding time at work. “He made sure to pull me aside and put his hands on my shoulders and said, ‘Anything you need to take care of your family, I will be there for you,’” Buttigieg recalled.

With Michigan now offering early voting for the first time, Buttigieg emphasized the importance of the state’s early primary status. He urged attendees to vote for Biden and other Democrats, touting the administration’s record of keeping promises on issues like healthcare and prescription drug costs. “This is a president that keeps faith with this country, and will keep faith with Michigan,” Buttigieg said.

“We all know what we are up against, we all know what the other side has to offer,” Buttigieg said, accusing Republicans of cutting taxes for the wealthy while taking away women’s rights.

After his speech, Buttigieg visited a local coffee shop to meet with supporters. His visit comes as Democrats seek to replicate their 2020 success in Michigan, which was critical to Biden’s presidential victory. With the primary election just weeks away, Buttigieg’s stop aimed to motivate Democrats to turn out again for Biden and other candidates.