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Activist looks to limit Governor Whitmer’s power

ALPENA, Mich. — Jeremy Atwill was set up at the intersection of Bagley St. and M-32 in Alpena, hoping to convince people to sign his petition, a petition that would repeal the Emergency Powers of the Governor Act of 1945.

This act states, “During the times of great public crisis, disaster, rioting, catastrophe, or similar public emergency within the state, the governor may proclaim a state of emergency and designate the area involved.” Atwill said Governor Whitmer is abusing this power. “We want to get that law off the books so that no future governors abuse the laws like she has,” he said.

While Atwill said he believes Whitmer has done certain things right for the state during the pandemic, he said she’s gone too far and small businesses are suffering. “It is hurting a lot of small businesses, a lot of martial arts schools, dance studios, stuff like that that can’t open and people who have put their life into it are now going to come out of this with nothing,” said Atwill.

Despite his signs showing clear disappointment with Whitmer, Atwill said this is not about getting her out of office, it’s only about changing the law. “If she’d go through legislation then I’d be more comfortable with all of these executive orders because then the legislators are approving it, and obviously it’s something we need to do,” he said.

Atwill says to learn more about what he’s trying to accomplish, those interested can visit UnlockMichigan.com.