WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin, released the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s Executive Orders:
“Yesterday was a historic moment, and I was glad to represent Michigan at the Inauguration, and to share the day with my good friend from the other side of the aisle, Holly Township Supervisor George Kullis. While George and I disagree on some things, we’ve always worked exceedingly well together to help Michiganders.
“As a Democrat who was elected on the same ballot as President Trump, I have a mandate to look for common ground when it can help Michigan families, and to compromise on policy when it’s in the interests of Michiganders. For example, his focus on the auto industry and on China in his speech were places of mutual interest.
“But I also have an obligation to push back on actions I feel are harmful to Michigan and the nation. Where the President takes actions that I think are strategic in importance, and do lasting or irreversible harm to the nation, I will speak out.
“Though there were many troubling actions yesterday, the pardons issued for those convicted of crimes on January 6, 2021, stand out, especially as someone who barricaded herself in her office and watched bloodied Capitol Police officers defend our Capitol.
“In issuing these pardons, the President signaled that those who commit violence on his behalf – even assaulting law enforcement officers – can get away with their crimes. It also signals that political violence that supports President Trump will be treated as acceptable and potentially pardonable going forward.
“This creates real, long-term damage to our legal system, and puts the rule of law and our democracy at great risk. This isn’t a matter of partisan politics. It’s about law and character.”