Mike Cox Slams Whitmer’s Taxpayer-Funded Olympics Vacation as Michigan Families Lose 19,000 Jobs

LIVONIA, Mich. — Republican gubernatorial candidate Mike Cox today blasted Governor Gretchen Whitmer for what he called a “taxpayer-funded vacation” disguised as an investment mission, as Michigan families reel from the loss of 19,000 jobs last month, 77% of all jobs lost in the Midwest.

“While 19,000 Michiganders were losing their paychecks, Gretchen Whitmer was packing her bags for Europe,” Mike Cox said. “She can call it an ‘investment trip,’ but taxpayers see it for what it is: a government-funded trip to watch the Olympics while Michigan families are bracing for layoffs and higher costs..”

“Just one day before boarding her flight, Gov. Whitmer unveiled an $88 billion budget that grows government and raises taxes on the very people she claims to represent,” Cox continued. “Her plan hikes taxes on hunting and fishing licenses, tobacco and vape products, sports betting, and even digital advertising, piling new burdens on working men and women and small businesses at the worst possible time.”

“Families are tightening their belts. Small businesses are struggling with higher costs and uncertainty, and instead of providing leadership, Whitmer is proposing higher taxes and more spending while jetting off to hobnob with the global elites.” 

“As Governor, I will do the opposite,” Cox added. “I will eliminate the income tax, roll back bureaucratic red tap, and put Michigan workers first. You don’t grow jobs by growing government. You grow jobs by lowering taxes, backing our in-state manufacturers, supporting small businesses and making Michigan the best place to start or relocate your business. As governor, I will make Michigan the best place in America to build, hire and invest.” 

The Cox campaign called on Whitmer to provide a full accounting of the cost of the European trip and explain how it directly benefits the 19,000 Michiganders who just lost their jobs.

“Michigan families deserve leadership that shows up, takes accountability and puts local workers and small businesses first, not taxpayer funded international junkets for Olympic sightseeing,” Cox concluded.