Whitmer Asks Trump For Full Michigan National Guard Funding

MICHIGAN — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Wednesday sent a letter to President Donald Trump requesting he fully fund the Michigan National Guard forces the state has used in their response to the coronavirus pandemic through Dec. 31.

Last week, Trump made the decision to federally fund National Guard activities at only 75 percent in every state except Florida, Texas, Arizona, Connecticut and California, leaving states across the country with the responsibility to make up the rest of the cost.

“States across the country are already struggling with balancing their budgets to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to provide essential services to their citizens," Whitmer said in a statement. "Michigan needs the president to fully fund the use of the Michigan National Guard so our guardsmen and women can continue to provide crucial parts of our emergency response, like conducting testing and screening, distributing personal protective equipment, and assisting at food banks across the state.

“The president’s decision to grant full federal funding would directly impact our state’s ability to re-engage our economy while continuing to keep our communities, seniors, and vulnerable populations safe.”

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Last week, Trump authorized the use of Michigan National Guard forces for COVID-19 response through December 31, 2020. While Title 32 had been funded at 100 percent federal expense, the Trump imposed a 25 percent state cost share for the state of Michigan from Aug. 21 to Dec. 31.

“This is yet another reason why we need the president and Congress to work together on a bipartisan recovery package that includes direct funding for states,” Whitmer said. “The health of our families, our economy, and our small businesses depend on the president’s ability to put partisanship aside and work across the aisle to protect the American people. This virus has already taken more than 160,000 American lives on his watch. It’s time for him to do the right thing and help us navigate this crisis.”

Related: Michigan Governor Asks Trump For Extended National Guard Use