cherry - Granholm Outlines Vision for Michigan, Asks Citizens to Join in Building Next Michigan

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm, in her Inaugural Address, today outlined her vision for the state's future and asked Michigan citizens to "claim the Next Michigan" with her, a transformed state where the opportunity to live a good life exists for all citizens.

Granholm delivered her address at the Lansing Center after taking the oath of office on the steps of the State Capitol for the second and final time as the state's 47th governor.

In her address, which centered on the themes of opportunity and transformation, Granholm acknowledged Michigan's current challenges, while renewing her commitment to transform the state's economy and invest in people.

"I am very clear about the mission you have laid upon my shoulders and upon my heart," Granholm said. "I intend to do everything in my power to transform this state and to provide opportunity to all who live here."

Granholm said the state's natural resources, work ethic, quality of life, and human talent are unmatched and will serve as the foundation for the Next Michigan. She urged citizens to "believe" in all that Michigan will be.

"Believe in the Next Michigan where opportunity to grow and to live a good life exists for all our citizens," Granholm said. "Believe in the Next Michigan where every child can go to college…where our cities are electric, alive with people and culture and energy and jobs…where every citizen has access to affordable health care…where our citizens have a responsibility to one another."

Transforming Michigan will require "great action" from everyone, Granholm said. State policy makers must show courage in diversifying the economy to bring jobs and investment, in helping displaced workers, and in protecting children and seniors. Citizens must also commit, Granholm said, to helping themselves and their fellow citizens during this time of transformation.

"In this, our moment, with urgency and with courage, we will transform our beloved state, we will provide opportunity for all our citizens and, together, we will build the Next Michigan," Granholm concluded.