March 25, 2026
LANSING, Mich.—Today, Governor Whitmer released the following statement following former Speaker Joe Tate’s announcement that he will not seek re-election to the Michigan House of Representatives:
“Joe Tate is a good friend, committed public servant, and trailblazer who served as the first Black House speaker in Michigan history.
“Over the course of his term as Speaker, I was proud to work with him to deliver historic tax cuts for working families and retirees, free breakfast and lunch for all 1.4 million public school students, clean energy laws, commonsense gun violence prevention legislation, reproductive health, and more.
“Speaker Tate always led with compassion and kindness, put Michiganders first, and worked tirelessly to get things done that make a difference for his constituents and every Michigander. I want to congratulate him on capping off his historic legislative career and wish him and his family the best as he begins a new chapter.”
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