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Gretchen Whitmer speaks to 'Progressives in the Park' at Grand Rapids event

Democratic candidate for governor Gretchen Whitmer said Michigan is "primed for a big change," during a speech at "Progressives in the Park" in Grand Rapids.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. - Most of the speakers were democrats, but organizers say “Progressives in the Park” Tuesday, Aug. 14, was not just a Democratic Party event.

“We did not call this 'Democrats in the Park',” explained organizer Philip Skaggs. “We called this 'Progressives in the Park.' By that we mean candidates who want to move us in a forward direction.”

The four-hour event featured speeches from candidates, activists sharing information on issues, a beer tent and food trucks serving refreshments.

“It is like a street fair but without the arts and crafts,” laughed Skaggs. “Just the politics.”

“I think it is a worthwhile event,” said Asaline Scott, whose daughter Brenda is running for Michigan State University Trustee. “It brings people together to talk about the issues.”

Candidates for State House and Senate, Congress, University Trustee and State Board of Education all spoke to the crowd.

Democratic candidate for governor Gretchen Whitmer was the featured speaker.

“We must be unified in this general election,” she said. “The stakes are too high. We put forward the most diverse slate of candidates this state has ever seen. That is the future. That is who we are in Michigan.

"This state is primed for a big change.”

Whitmer did not name her running mate during her visit to Grand Rapids Tuesday night. Bill Schutte, her Republican opponent, is expected to name his running mate Wednesday, Aug. 15. He has hinted it will be a woman.

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