Devin Scillian went one-on-one with Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to discuss why growing the state’s population will be a considerable focus moving forward.

The March for Workers Rights and Economic Justice comes amid strikes by the UAW, casino workers, and employees at Blue Cross Blue Shield Michigan.

It’s hard to believe that several years ago most Americans had never heard of its other Independence Day, Juneteenth, which recognizes the end of slavery in the United States.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to be sworn in for second term in office in Lansing on Jan. 1, 2023.

Governor Gretchen Whitmer has secured a second term in the state of Michigan and is already looking ahead to the next four years.

As families struggle to make ends meet, one big hit to the bottom line just happened: checking off those long school supplies lists is far from cheap.

Two men have been found guilty on charges connected to the plot to kidnap Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Auto-makers have made it clear that electric vehicles are the future. For that to happen, you need places to charge them, and that’s what Kroger, DTE, and a company called Volta Charging are trying to do as they’re looking to bring charging stations to places that don’t have many.

A proclamation was issued declaring June 19th as Juneteenth Celebration Day in Michigan.

The Grand Rapids Police Department released four videos on Wednesday that show one of its officers shooting and killing Patrick Lyoya, a 26-year-old Black man, during a confrontation earlier this month.

Believe it or not, midterm elections are right around the corner, and Michigan voters are getting ready to choose their governor.

The final report from a Michigan coronavirus task force examining racial disparities finds that the disproportional impact the pandemic has had on people of color has improved.

A Michigan native was sworn in as the U.S. Permanent Representative to NATO this month.

Between construction and COVID, Motor City Pride is back after 15 months.

Here's what's coming up on Local 4 News at 5.

The winner of the $1 million prize and two more $50,000 daily drawing winners from Michigan’s COVID vaccine sweepstakes were announced Wednesday (July 21).

Fifteen months after the start of the pandemic COVID-19 restrictions are being lifted across the state.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a briefing Tuesday to officially lift the state’s COVID restrictions and fully reopen for the first time in about 15 months.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a news conference Tuesday afternoon as the state lifts nearly all COVID-19 restrictions after more than 15 months.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is set to hold a briefing today as the state of Michigan reopens to full capacity and drops its COVID-19 mask and gathering restrictions.

Michiganders might not have to wait until July for COVID restrictions to be lifted.

Michigan’s COVID positivity rate over the last seven days is less than 2%, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer called the current case data very good in a stop in Grand Rapids on Wednesday.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a news conference Monday in Troy to put forward their plan to make an “historic investment to expand access to child care for families throughout Michigan,” according to the governor’s office.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is set to announce an executive order on juvenile justice reform on Wednesday afternoon.

The state of Michigan is preparing to unveil new guidelines for implicit bias training for employees, particularly those in health care.

The Michigan Board of State Canvassers (BSC) is meeting on Tuesday to consider a petition to recall Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and Lieutenant Gov. Garlin Gilchrist are honoring the lives of fallen veterans this Memorial Day with a new video

Michigan has released its new plan for fully reopening the state as COVID-19 cases decline and residents eye a return to normalcy.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer is holding a news conference Thursday morning to provide an update on the state’s coronavirus pandemic and reopening plan.

Here’s what you missed on Local 4 News at 4:

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer held a news conference Thursday morning to provide an update on the state’s response to the COVID pandemic.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Thursday on COVID-19 in Michigan, discussing a new plan to lift restrictions based on how many people get vaccinated.

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist released details about Michigan’s Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities’ new plan to reduce hesitancy about getting vaccinated.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist received his first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Saturday.

For the seventh week in a row, the state of Michigan is the worst in the nation in terms of coronavirus cases.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s administration is asking the federal government to send more doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to the state as cases continue surging.

DETROIT – The city of Detroit is adding vaccine capacity at the TCF Center as it has received an influx of appointments as a result of eligibility expansion. That means any Detroit resident can call to schedule an appointment to be vaccinated at the TCF Center. READ: Detroit expands COVID vaccine eligibility to all residents 16 and olderThe TCF Center will start offering an indoor walk-up option to expand daily vaccination capacity from 5,000 doses per day to 8,000 per day starting next week. City employees can bring family members to get vaccinated at the TCF Center on April 10. Employees can call 313-230-0505 and let the operator know they are calling to schedule an appointment for City Employee Family Vaccination Day.

LANSING, Mich. – The new effort by Republican lawmakers to change the election process in Michigan is receiving pushback. Among the package of 39 bills, many are aimed at issues from the 2020 election. Garlin Gilchrist outraged by the bill package, likening it to racist voting laws in the south after the Civil War. Republicans said the bills are necessary after months of failed election lawsuit and misinformation about the election results. On Twitter, Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey writes, “Michigan residents must have complete confidence in the fairness of elections and that all who can legally vote can vote.”

DETROIT – Officials said Tuesday’s soft opening of the COVID-19 mass vaccination site at Ford Field was a success. With the site officially opening Wednesday, officials are getting ready for everybody, including those with disabilities or limited English. “We’ve been trying to be really thoughtful when it comes to language access, and people with disabilities making sure we have enough accessible vaccine pods for people with wheelchairs,” said Michigan Lt. Gov. Read: Ford Field COVID mass vaccination site prepared to open to thousandsAround 70 vaccination pods are set up and people who received the vaccine Tuesday said it was a very quick process. More: Registration for COVID-19 vaccine at Ford Field now open -- How to registerRelated News

DETROIT – When it opens on Wednesday the Ford Field vaccination clinic will aim to administer 6,000 doses each day. We are on that door step with Ford Field becoming the platform where thousands of doses will be distributed each day. Garlin Gilchrist led area Democratic representatives and Sen. Gary Peters through Ford Field to get their first hand look at the nearly 70 vaccination pods ringing the playing field. “So he said Brenda, sick or dead, sick or dead? The Ford Field vaccine program is scheduled to run for the next eight weeks.

Gretchen Whitmer held a news briefing Friday morning to provide an update on the state’s coronavirus pandemic response. UPDATE: Michigan increases outdoor stadium capacity, requires COVID testing for youth sportsThe governor’s remarks come just after she spoke from Ford Field Thursday with Lt. Gov. Michigan COVID-19 vaccinations: How to find appointments, info on phasesAdOn Thursday, the state of Michigan reported 2,629 new virus cases and 25 new deaths (including 24 from a vital records review), totaling 618,421 overall cases and 15835 deaths. Over the last few weeks, the state has seen a slight increase in daily new COVID-19 cases. New: How to schedule COVID vaccine appointment at CVS in Michigan

DETROIT – Michigan residents can register for the COVID-19 vaccination clinic at Ford Field in Detroit. Gretchen Whitmer announced Thursday that the Ford Field clinic will administer more than 350,000 vaccine doses in the next two months. READ: Ford Field mass COVID vaccination site expected to take pressure off county health departmentsDetroit Lions President Rod Wood said the vaccination clinic will be the most important event to be held at Ford Field, topping Super Bowl XL in 2006. “This Ford Field site will administer 6,000 shots a day starting March 24 and will continue for eight weeks,” Whitmer said. Whitmer, Meijer, FEMA, the Detroit Lions and Henry Ford Health Systems made the announcement official Thursday -- Ford Field will host one of the nation’s largest mass COVID vaccination operations.

DETROIT – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spoke Thursday from Ford Field about COVID-19 vaccinations. Ford Field was selected by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as a vaccination site that will operate from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. seven days per week for eight weeks. The site has the capacity to administer 6,000 doses to residents in Southeast Michigan every day, officials said. AdRelated: Ford Field mass COVID vaccination site expected to take pressure off county health departments

“I’m pleased to announce the addition of a new FEMA-supported site in Detroit,” said White House COVID-19 Response Coordinator Jeff Zients. “This site, located at Ford Field, home of the Detroit Lions, has the ability to administer 6,000 shots per day.”UPDATE March 15: You can now register to get vaccinated against COVID at Ford FieldREAD: FEMA to convert Ford Field into regional mass vaccination siteIt was initially reported in February that officials from FEMA were touring Ford Field and were planning to turn the home of the Detroit Lions into a massive vaccination site. “Protect lives and move Michigan and Detroit forward.”The way forward, she said, is the the vaccination site at Ford Field. I am thrilled that the recently enacted American Rescue Plan Act will deliver resources -- that I secured -- directly to the federal vaccination program at Ford Field. Having this new mass vaccination site operated by FEMA will be a significant step forward for our city and our region toward that goal.

LANSING, Mich. – The first confirmed coronavirus cases in Michigan were announced March 10, 2020. READ: First 2 cases of coronavirus confirmed in Michigan: What we know, don’t knowIn the last 365 days, Michigan has seen more than 600,000 confirmed cases and nearly 16,000 COVID-related deaths. Gretchen Whitmer and Lt. Gov. In an exclusive interview with Local 4, Whitmer spoke with Rod Meloni and reflected on the past year. The state has gone through a lot over the past year since the first two cases confirmed on March 10, 2020.

DETROIT – Monday, March 8, marked the first day COVID-19 vaccine eligibility expanding to Michiganders 50 years old and up with certain health conditions. There are now three vaccines available -- Pfizer, Moderna and Johnson & Johnson. AdIt’s the Johnson & Johnson vaccine that had the Duggan administration making a rare unforced error last week when the mayor turned down 6,200 doses because he wanted Detroiters to “get the best”. CDC: Fully vaccinated people can visit unvaccinated people without masks, social distancingThe White House COVID-19 response team provided an update on the pandemic on Monday afternoon. The guidance was very conservative but does provide a road map for those who are fully vaccinated to begin seeing other people.

LANSING, Mich. – As the state’s recommended deadline nears for all Michigan school districts to return to as much in-person learning as possible, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer spoke about the COVID-19 safety guidelines that will be in place. Michigan wants all schools to offer in-person learning options by March 1, andREAD: 12 takeaways from Gov. After talking about all the reasons she believes a return to in-person learning is the right move, Whitmer described some of the measures schools should have in place to prevent the spread of COVID. Other safety guidelinesThere are six other safety guidelines Whitmer described, though it’s not clear if they are requirements or recommendations.

Gretchen Whitmer said all Michigan schools should offer an in-person learning option by March 1. On Feb. 10, Whitmer doubled down on her insistence that students return to the classroom, saying districts should offer as much in-person learning as possible. Both services have been on pause during in-person learning. Some parents -- especially women -- have had to step away from workforce to care for their children and aid remote learning, Whitmer said. Students who are economically disadvantaged, require special education, experience housing insecurity or are learning English as a second language need in-person learning opportunities more than others, Whitmer said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan officials are considering re-engaging more of the state in the coming days, and that’s because all three of the key COVID-19 metrics continue to improve. Whitmer’s Feb. 24 COVID-19 briefing“We continue, as the governor said, to see positive trends in the key metrics that we are tracking for COVID-19,” Khaldun said. AdThe percentage of COVID-19 tests coming back positive in Michigan is down to 3.5%. Right now, 4.9% of available inpatient hospital beds statewide are being used to take care of people with COVID-19, Khaldun said. “While we are pleased with these metrics, I am concerned that our testing numbers are declining across the state,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – The more contagious variant of COVID-19 has exactly doubled in Michigan over the past seven days, as there are now 314 confirmed cases across 19 counties. Last Wednesday, Michigan had confirmed 157 cases of the variant across 12 counties, Khaldun said. Seven days later, the state is up to 314 cases across 19 counties. Whitmer’s Feb. 24 COVID-19 briefingThe first cases of the variant found in the state were within the University of Michigan athletic department. That suggests community spread of the variant, Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Almost a month after they were allowed to resume in-person dining, Michigan restaurants want to increase capacity to 50%. Gretchen Whitmer hinted at re-engaging more of the state’s economy soon, but will restaurants be included? AdBut on Wednesday, Whitmer said the state is considering reopening further because COVID-19 metrics have continued to improve. Whitmer said she has heard from restaurant owners who want to increase capacity to 50% because they think that it can be done safely. Michigan has moved slowly with the restaurant industry, citing the inherent risk of bringing people from different households into a situation that requires removing masks.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan is considering re-engaging more of the economy very soon, but Gov. Gretchen Whitmer was asked why the state quietly extended the current COVID-19 order without its usual announcement. Typically, any extension or revision of the order is accompanied by a press release or announced by Whitmer as a prominent part of her weekly COVID briefings. Here is the governor’s full response to the question:“I was a little surprised by the reaction, to tell you the truth,” Whitmer said. We make a change, see how it’s going, watch the data, report on the data, make changes along the way.

LANSING, Mich. – More of Michigan is expected to reopen in the “coming days,” with the loosening of some COVID-19 restrictions, according to Gov. “We’re expecting to make more announcements on additional re-engagements in the coming days,” Whitmer said. “Our case numbers and public health metrics are trending in the right direction, and we’re very pleased to see that.”READ: 12 takeaways from Gov. AdMost recently, the order was quietly extended by the state until March 29, but Whitmer hinted Wednesday that there will be more re-engagement soon. Ad“Every step we’ve taken has been incremental.

“We’re expecting to make more announcements on additional re-engagements in the coming days,” Whitmer said. “We continue, as the governor said, to see positive trends in the key metrics that we are tracking for COVID-19,” Khaldun said. Right now, 4.9% of available inpatient hospital beds statewide are being used to take care of people with COVID-19, Khaldun said. “While we are pleased with these metrics, I am concerned that our testing numbers are declining across the state,” Khaldun said. Michigan State University researchers found there is not a correlation between schools being open and community spread of the virus.

Whitmer will be joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. Here’s what you should know about COVID-19 in Michigan before Whitmer’s briefing. COVID-19 metricsLike the daily case count, Michigan’s most important COVID-19 metrics have been trending in a positive direction over the past several weeks. “I continue to be very encouraged by the data we are seeing in the state, with regards to COVID-19,” Khaldun said. Johnson & Johnson vaccineJohnson & Johnson’s single-dose COVID-19 vaccine protects against the virus, according to an analysis by U.S. regulators.

Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Wednesday on the handling of COVID-19 in Michigan. READ: 12 takeaways from Whitmer’s Feb. 24 COVID briefingThe governor was joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. Khaldun reported positive trends for all of Michigan’s COVID-19 metrics, including a decrease in case rate, percent positivity and hospitalization rate. On Wednesday, Michigan reported 1,245 new COVID cases and nine additional deaths, marking the second-straight single-day total over 1,000. Overall, the state has confirmed 583,964 COVID cases and 15,405 virus-related deaths since the start of the pandemic.

With COVID vaccines still in short supply, there are concerns on how the state of Michigan is distributing the doses and whether the vulnerable population is being served. The state is now including race data in its COVID-19 Vaccine Dashboard to provide additional information. More than 60% of Michigan seniors have not been vaccinated as of Tuesday. READ: How a CVS closure impacts COVID vaccination efforts for seniors in Highland ParkAdREAD: Seniors in Highland Park, Hamtramck line up to receive dose of COVID-19 vaccineREAD: Can I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I’m on an antibiotic? Why you still need to wear a mask, practice social distancing amid COVID vaccine rolloutAccording to the CDC, more than 44 million Americans have received at least their first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Garlin Gilchrist II said he wants to make his family and the state proud of the work he does every day. As a public servant and role model, Gilchrist said he doesn’t take any of his responsibilities lightly. His parents believed in a strong work ethic and made sure he had the same foundation growing up. “I think all of us exists to change the world for the better,” Gilchrist said. Gilchrist now heads the state’s Coronavirus Task Force, addressing the racial disparities and why the crisis hit people of color in Detroit the hardest.

LANSING, Mich. – Calls for discipline have grown over the weekend after state Senate Majority Leader Mike Shirkey was caught in two controversial hot mic conversations. He said he regretted the words he chose and apologized for his “insensitive comments.”AdThe next day on the Michigan Senate floor, Shirkey told Lt. Gov. READ: How Michigan played a role in Donald Trump’s 2nd impeachmentThe pressure to discipline Shirkey even extended to the U.S. Senate. Ad“It’s outrageous that you have, yet again, another Republican leader engaging in conspiracy theories and lies,” Peters said. Apparently, the leader of the state Senate in Michigan now wants to tell an even bigger lie.”Michigan Republican Speaker of the House Jason Wentworth released a statement of his own, distancing himself from Shirkey.

Garlin Gilchrist spoke with Local 4 about the state of Michigan’s new COVID vaccination phase on Monday, Jan. 11, 2020. He discussed how Michigan will move into the next phase of vaccinations Monday, which includes teachers, first responders, childcare providers and residents 65 years of age and older. “Everyone getting a vaccine is key to us moving forward with our life, our economy, with our jobs, with our kids getting back to school, with all of this. Eligible essential workers, teachers and childcare workers will be notified by their employers about vaccine clinic dates and locations, Gov. Because supply of the vaccine is limited, residents are required to get an appointment.

Gretchen Whitmer is reflecting on 2020, touching on the COVID-19 pandemic, Michigan roads, the economic crisis, dam failures, a domestic terror plot and protests over racial injustice. “As I think about 2020, the phrase annus horribilis comes to mind, which means a horrible year. But it wasn’t all horrible, cause some really good things happened this year and there are sources of inspiration no matter where you look,” Whitmer said. In this video, Whitmer goes all the way back to the first cases of COVID-19 in Michigan, which were confirmed March 10. It covers the domestic terror plot targeting Whitmer and ends with a look ahead to 2021.

The state of Michigan and its 16 Electoral Votes have gone to Joe Biden and Kamala Harris. READ: Michigan electors unanimously seal election win for Joe Biden, Kamala HarrisPolice were brought in to escort Electors into Michigan’s Capitol in Lansing on Monday. There was a lot of concern over the possibility of violence so Michigan State Police were out in full force. I will work just as hard for those of you who didn’t vote for me, as I will for those who did. READ: Michigan GOP Rep. Gary Eisen removed from committee after comments on Electoral College disruption

Lawmakers in Washington claim they may have a compromise on a COVID Relief Bill that would extend unemployment benefits and help small businesses. Michigan’s “three-week pause” in that bans indoor dining at bars and restaurants, in-person learning at high schools and colleges ends Tuesday at 11:59 p.m., but it’s still unclear if Gov. For single mothers and servers at Andiamo restaurant, Kelly and Melissa, preparing for the holidays have been rougher than usual. Since the latest set of restrictions were put into place by the Governor, making ends meet isn’t as easy as it was when restaurants were open for in-person dining. Just let us open back up and let the people who want to come out, come back,” Melissa concluded.

DETROIT – The second surge of the coronavirus is leaving many asking for help from lawmakers in Washington. Garlin Gilchrist which this week released findings on a new study of the virus. Gilchrist was on Flashpoint Sunday and discussed findings of the study. Segment OneMichigan Democratic congresswoman, Elissa SlotkinSegment TwoMichigan Republican congressman, Paul MitchellSegment ThreeLt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist

LANSING, Mich. – COVID-19 is spreading rapidly among inmates inside Michigan prisons, but the governor outlined eight specific ways the state is trying to combat that spread. She said this is an issue her administration takes “very seriously.” State officials are working with the Department of Corrections to try to make the prisons more safe from the virus. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopeningHere are eight ways Michigan is trying to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in prisons, according to Whitmer:Inmates are required to wear masks, practice social distancing and utilize proper hygienic protocols. Wayne State University provides doctors that serve as the head of MDC’s clinical COVID-19 response. MDC leadership has regular meetings with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to learn more about the virus.

Gretchen Whitmer said when considering whether or not the three-week COVID-19 restrictions need to be extended, the bottom line is: “Do the people do their part?”From Nov. 18 through Dec. 8, Michigan is under tightened COVID-19 rules. In addition to those restrictions from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services order, health officials are asking Michiganders to wear masks, practice social distancing and wash hands frequently. “We could all do our part right now and take this incredible seriously,” Whitmer said. There is hope that stems from slowly declining case rates and positive momentum for a COVID-19 vaccine. While there’s a great deal of hope, Michigan is also in a “really dangerous moment,” Whitmer said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s three-week COVID-19 order is in effect for four more days, but will it be extended beyond the original expiration date? Gretchen Whitmer on Thursday during her COVID-19 briefing. She called this month and next month possible spreading events. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopeningState officials are working with health systems to understand the severity of the current COVID-19 trends. Every health system in the state has seen growth in hospitalizations compared to a month ago, Whitmer said.

Gretchen Whitmer believes any elected officials who tests positive for COVID-19 should reveal that information. During Thursday’s COVID-19 briefing, Whitmer was asked about COVID-19 diagnoses among state lawmakers. “I think all elected officials, in particular, should make the same exact commitment (to disclose positive tests),” Whitmer said. READ: Governor responds to Michigan restaurants considering defying state order, reopening“If I should take a COVID-19 test that comes back positive, I would absolutely disclose it,” Whitmer said. Whitmer said she has heard there are “quite a few” lawmakers who have COVID-19, and believes it should be a policy to share that information.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official explained Thursday why Black residents have seen such a disproportionate risk of COVID-19 infection. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday during Gov. “It’s really about exposure and what jobs people are doing and what resources they have. Maybe they didn’t have a car and they needed to share rides. “So it’s really about exposure and equity when it comes to why we’ve seen these disparities.”

LANSING, Mich. – COVID-19 case and death rates are still too high in Michigan, but there are three positive signs that the state’s circumstances are improving, according to Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. But there are a few positive signs, too, she said. Here are the three circumstances she pointed to as positive signs for the future:Shortened quarantine lengthSlowly declining case rateVaccine progress“This month is already very promising,” Khaldun said. We are seeing signs that the case rate is slowing over the past couple of weeks, and vaccines are coming very soon. The case rate is “still seeing a slight decline in the rate of new cases over the past 13 days,” according to Khaldun.

LANSING, Mich. – A COVID-19 vaccine could become available as early as Dec. 15, according to the top health official in the state of Michigan. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday about the progress health officials have made toward a vaccine that can be distributed to the public. “We’re working directly with our hospitals, local health departments and other partners to plan for when a COVID-19 vaccine will become available, which we expect to be as early as Dec. 15,” Khaldun said. “This is really exciting, and I want people to be, right now, thinking about their plans for getting the vaccine when it becomes available to them.”Click here to view a timeline of when the COVID-19 vaccine could be available to Michigan’s general public. “As more supply becomes available, eventually, the general public will be able to get the vaccine, as well,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Since the start of the coronavirus pandemic, the recommended quarantine length has been 14 days, but now, health experts have released a new, shortened quarantine option for certain instances. This week, the Centers For Disease Control and Prevention released new data based on analysis of hundreds of thousands of cases. Experts found 99% of COVID-19 cases will become infectious or develop symptoms within 10 days of exposure. Khaldun said a 14-day quarantine is still “the gold standard,” but health officials will also have the option to allow people who have not developed symptoms to be released from quarantine after 10 days. “So if you’ve had no symptoms after exposure for 10 days, then you can be removed from quarantine,” Khaldun said.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s top health official revealed the top six types of places linked to COVID-19 outbreaks in the state during Thursday’s briefing. Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, spoke Thursday during Gov. “We are also still identifying many outbreaks across the state,” Khaldun said. Cases positivity rates in the regions range from 8.5% to 15%, and 81% of ICU beds are full. State officials are working with hospitals to make sure they have what they need to deal with the COVID-19 demand.

A Michigan task force has been conducting research and implementing new protocols to help improve conditions for minority communities who have been severely impacted by the coronavirus pandemic -- and they have seen some notable progress so far. Gretchen Whitmer established the Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities to address issues leading to the disproportionate havoc the pandemic has wreaked on communities of color compared to white communities. Since the task force was created, more than 20 “Neighborhood Testing sites” have been established in previously-underserved communities throughout Michigan, the state reports. Moving forward, the group intends to close the “digital divide” by ensuring minority communities have better access to internet, telehealth services and virtual learning. “It’s clear that the work of this task force ... has made significant progress in protecting families, frontline workers, and small businesses in communities of color,” said Celeste Sanchez Lloyd, task force member and community program manager for Strong Beginnings at Spectrum Health.

Whitmer will be joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. As of Wednesday (Dec. 2), Michigan had reported 373,197 COVID-19 cases and 9,405 deaths. On Wednesday afternoon, Michigan reported 6,955 new COVID-19 cases and 81 additional deaths, bringing the state totals up to 373,197 cases and 9,405 deaths. Michigan health officials have said it’s extremely difficult to contact trace outbreaks in restaurants because of the short duration a patron may spend inside. Michigan football shuts downMichigan football has canceled this weekend’s game against Maryland due to COVID-19 concerns within the Wolverines’ program.

LANSING, Mich. – Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer provided an update Thursday on the state’s handling of COVID-19. Whitmer was joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the chief medical executive of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and Michigan Lt. Gov. Michigan is currently in the latter third of a three-week “pause” that shut down indoor dining at restaurants, in-person classes for colleges and high schools, and much more. As of Wednesday (Dec. 2), Michigan had reported 373,197 COVID-19 cases and 9,405 deaths.

The press conference came just hours after the Trump campaign filed to dismiss its case to stop the certification of Michigan’s election results. “That case was attempting to get Wayne County board of supervisors to decertify, and they did,” Giuliani said, misidentifying the Board of Canvassers as supervisors. But Giuliani and the campaign’s filing are wrong: The Wayne County Board of Canvassers did certify the election after a 2-2 deadlock earlier this week. Michigan officials said Thursday that there’s no legal basis for them to reverse their decisions. Read the latest here: Michigan: GOP canvassers can’t legally rescind Wayne County election certification vote

Gretchen Whitmer also had two other plots to kill Michigan politicians involving public executions and mass murder in the ongoing case, according to newly discovered court filings in a Michigan district court. According to the recent filings, members of the group had a Plan B which was initially Plan A. The group would storm the capitol while the legislature was in session, lock the doors and burn the capitol to the ground. One associate had allegedly attempted to take “selfies” to document entrances and exits at the capitol at a recent rally. This week the Governors of both Michigan and Wisconsin have filed the paperwork to have him extradited to Michigan.

DETROIT – When the COVID-19 outbreak began, the virus hit Black and Brown communities hard with unspeakable losses. Since April, the Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities has been working to eliminate the impact COVID-19 has had on communities of color. READ: What role are Michigan schools playing in spread of COVID-19? They’ve made progress by making testing more accessible for communities of color, including drive-thru, walk-up and mobile testing sites. We just funded another 20 million pounds with the projects called Rapid Response Initiatives.”The task force also recommended that Michigan Gov.

LANSING, Mich. – With six days to go before Election Day, and record voter turnout expected, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer pledged to make sure residents and their votes are safe. Record early turnout is leading some people to believe Michigan could also break records on Election Day itself. On Wednesday, Whitmer, Lt. Gov. President Donald Trump has said he’s concerned about the integrity of the election in Michigan.

Detroit Lions player Trey Flowers and Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist will be part of an online voting townhall this afternoon titled “Your Vote Matters: How to Cast Yours in Michigan." Eligible Michigan voters can learn their options when it comes to registering to vote and casting their ballot. The event is being hosted by the “Players Coalition” which is an independent advocacy organization made up of over 1,400 professional athletes, coaches and team owners. The online townhall gets underway at 5 p.m. and to register to be apart of it click here.

DETROIT – Bus loads of Black men, boys and seniors from Detroit descended on the National Mall for the Million Man March 25 years ago. Around 1.7 million Black men registered to vote after the Million Man March. Now, some of the men who attended on that historic day in Washington are urging young Black men to keep the same energy. Governor Garlin Gilchrist talked about the power of the Black vote and how Black men need to make sure their voices are heard. It’s now impossible to estimate the number of people who attended the original Million Man March.

The bipartisan Clean Slate Package will automatically expunge some marijuana convictions, minor crimes and nonviolent felonies. Gilchrist joined Whitmer when she signed the Clean Slate package. “We made an estimate that it’s going to cost about $23-25 million to implement the Clean Slate automated expungement system," Gilchrist said. Whitmer on Monday alongside a number of House bills designed to automate the criminal record expungement process and expand eligibility criteria. More: New ‘Clean Slate’ laws to automate criminal record expungement process, expand eligibility criteria in Michigan

Michigan leaders are expressing concern and disappointment after the Supreme Court ruling to halt the 2020 Census. After the Supreme Court’s decision, the Census Bureau said field operations would end on Thursday. Michigan Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II said Michigan can’t afford to lose out on Census funding. In light of the many obstacles the 2020 Census has faced during the pandemic, I am calling on the federal government and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross to continue the 2020 Census to its original deadline of Oct. 31. “Every day matters and an undercount in the 2020 Census would have drastic consequences for the state.

The letter was sent after 13 men were charged this week in a domestic terror plot to kidnap Whitmer and overthrow the government. He also brought up Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist saying he recently blamed Michigan Republicans for the domestic terror plot. New Today: Michigan sheriff shared stage at protest with man charged in domestic terror plot to kidnap, kill governorRead the entire letter here"We need to cooperate more. I am also alarmed the Lieutenant Governor recently blamed Michigan Republicans for the evil plans of these unstable men. Will the Lieutenant Governor turn it down with the entire Republican Party, millions of whom are his constituents?

DETROIT – How would you like more money for education, health care and better roads in Michigan? Only 49% of Detroit households have responded, and Gilchrist wants people to know it’s safe to fill out the census. The census doesn’t ask any questions about citizenship, and if you’re not a citizen, you should still fill out the census because it counts everyone living in the United States. The census doesn’t share your information with law enforcement. The more people who get counted, the more money the state gets for key programs in the community.

During his remarks Saturday, Michigan’s Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II condemned President Donald Trump and his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Donald Trump is a liar who has killed people, straight up,” Gilchrist said. “We cannot afford another four years of this man at the helm," Gilchrist said of President Trump during his remarks. Trump frequently claims that he has done more for Black Americans than any president since President Abraham Lincoln. In response to the comment made by Gilchrist, the Michigan campaign for Trump said the president has acted aggressively in response to the pandemic.

LANSING, Mich. Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer will provide an update Wednesday on the states handling of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Whitmer expected to announce plan to reopen Michigan gyms, movie theatersMichigan officials reported 718 new coronavirus cases Tuesday afternoon. MORE: What Whitmer said about Michigan surpassing 100,000 COVID-19 casesMore coverageHeres much more recent coverage of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whitmers handling of pandemic :Reopening Michigan :Health questions, advice :Vaccines :Outbreaks :Unemployment :Individual stories :

Gretchen Whitmer was caught on a live feed mouthing an expletive while making a joke about “Shark Week” prior to her Democratic National Convention speech on Monday. Whitmer’s comments were not broadcast live, but were picked up on a live feed of her speech before starting. Whitmer (D-MI) jokes before going live: "It's not just Shark Week ... it's Shark Week *mouths expletive*" pic.twitter.com/KSndbTvLZi — The Recount (@therecount) August 18, 2020The clip has gone viral since being posted to social media. Garlin Gilchrist tweeted:What week is it, @gretchenwhitmer? — Garlin Gilchrist (@garlin) August 18, 2020Gov.

DETROIT Congressman John Lewis, a civil rights icon, has died at the age of 80 on Friday after a six-month battle with stage four pancreatic cancer. The youngest and last surviving member of the Big Six civil rights activists, Lewis dedicated his life to fighting for equality. Leaders react to passing of civil rights iconMichigan Governor Gretchen WhitmerCongressman John Lewis was a civil rights legend who stood firmly on the front lines of our nations history. He touched the hearts of America as a Civil Rights icon in this country for decades. I will forever remember his stories of the Civil Rights movement, constant words of encouragement and the reminder to get into good trouble.

The governors office says the four-pronged plan was developed in partnership with community leaders and law enforcement organizations. Require in-service training for all licensed law enforcement officers to maintain licensure. Authorize MCOLES (Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards) to do the following: Audit law enforcement agencies to ensure they are accurately reporting violations of law or improper use of force. On personnel:Provide incentive programs for law enforcement agencies to hire/retain officers who live where they work. All Michiganders, no matter their community or the color of their skin, deserve equal treatment under the law, Governor Whitmer said.

DEARBORN, Mich. – Mayor John B. O’Reilly Jr., Police Chief Ronald Haddad and the Dearborn Fire Department worked together to get a new testing site in Dearborn up and running. After a lot of teamwork, they came up with the state’s first drive-thru rapid testing site. Inside is room for 200 first responders to stay if they test positive and don’t want to risk spreading the virus to their families. “The city of Dearborn has stepped up to provide not just for their city but for western Wayne County," Gilchrist said. Dearborn officials will continue to work on getting as many tests as they can to test as many first responders as they can.

Whitmer said the state is seeing a slowing of COVID-19 inpatients in hospitals, but data shows more than 4,600 hospitalized in the state. Michigan COVID-19 data. Whitmer also said testing is picking up, while positive tests are not increasing in line with testing. Michigan COVID-19 data. (MDHHS)Michigan COVID-19 data.

Thousands of people converged on the Focus Hope Headquarters on Sunday for the 45th annual March 4 Hope. "This is about encouraging people to know about our programs, food for seniors, youth development, early education and workforce," said Focus Hope CEO Portia Roberson. Historically, the indigenous people of this country weren't counted in the Census before the 1900s," said Jasahn Larsosa, with Focus Hope. That's why Focus Hope and the city of Detroit want to make sure your all voice are heard, and they're not alone. Some heavy hitters stopped by the event including Sen. Jewell Jones, Rep. LaTanya Garrett and Sen. Adam Hollier, Rep. Rashida Tlaib and Lt. Gov.

Gretchen Whitmer will hold a news conference Tuesday morning on the state budget. Governor Garlin Gilchrist and State Budget Director Chris Kolb. Whitmer avoided a state shutdown Monday night by signing the budget bills sent to her desk by the Republican-controlled Legislature. However, she used her line-item veto power and cut nearly $1 billion out of the budget. "I had to use my line-item veto to try, and clean up budgets that were a complete mess," she said.

DETROIT – Lieutenant governor candidate Garlin Gilchrist has paid the $758.23 in property taxes he owed the city of Detroit. According to the Detroit Land Bank Authority, Gilchrist has been given multiple warnings regarding non-compliance. Detroit Land Bank Authority public information officer Alyssa Strickland issued the following statement in response the blighted apartment building. The Detroit Land Bank Authority has previously issued multiple warnings to Mr. Gilchrist regarding non-compliance. If Mr. Gilchrist fails to provide the requested evidence of clean-up at his property, the Detroit Land Bank Authority will issue a notice of reconveyance.

DETROIT Detroit City Clerk candidates Janice Winfrey and Garlin Gilchrist debated. Winfrey is the current clerk. Also, see what came from Detroit's Homecoming event last week, including investments in the city's housing. Flashpoint is hosted by WDIV Local 4 anchor Devin Scillian. Watch Flashpoint on WDIV at 10 a.m. on Sundays.