Dear Friend,

Last week, the Motor City showed the world that, here in Michigan, we defy the odds and exceed expectations.

The 2024 NFL Draft broke the all-time record, with 775,000 people attending this year?s draft in downtown Detroit. We put the world on notice, showcasing Detroit's vibrancy, strength, and spirit. We proved that we can go toe-to-toe with other states to continue growing Michigan as a powerhouse for economic development. ?

On Saturday, I had the honor of announcing the Lions? strategic move to trade up and select a promising new offensive player. Building on the momentum of last year's division title win, the Lions' draft picks will bring new talent to Detroit and set our team up to dominate in the upcoming NFL season.

In Michigan, we are trading up and making the right picks for a brighter future, too.

Together are taking action to lower costs, improve education, keep communities safe, and fix our infrastructure so that anyone can ?make it.? We are protecting Michigander's fundamental freedoms. And we are using every economic development tool in our toolkit to bring supply chains home, create good-paying jobs, and lead the future of advanced manufacturing.

Thank you to the NFL, the City of Detroit, and all those involved in the planning and execution of the 2024 NFL Draft, including organizers, volunteers, and support personnel, whose tireless efforts ensured the success of this world-class event in Michigan.

Let?s keep making the right picks for Michigan and building a brighter future for our state.

Sincerely,

Gretchen Whitmer

Governor