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I wanted to take a moment to reflect on Monday.

Presidential inaugurations are historic occasions – a chance for our leaders to conduct a peaceful transfer of power, showing the rest of the world that our country is committed to the ideals of free and fair elections.

The start of a new administration also brings new announcements, policies, and orders, with which we might agree, or in some cases, strongly disagree.

I was proud to represent Michigan at the inauguration. I spent the day with a colleague from Michigan, George Kullis, the Township Supervisor in Holly where I live.

George is a Republican, and when it comes to national politics, we probably disagree on a lot. But at home, in Holly, we both care about protecting our neighbors – their pocketbooks and their kids – and we work together to help them.

It’s never far from my mind that I was elected by Michiganders on the same ballot as President Trump. My mandate is to work with the President wherever possible if there’s a chance to get something done – particularly if it’s going to lower the cost of living or help Michigan families get ahead. And when the President spoke about helping the auto industry, and competition with China, I saw areas of mutual interest.

But my job is also to speak up if I see actions being taken that are harmful to Michigan and to our democracy.

I’ve written to you over the past few weeks about my framework for my approach as a Senator during the next administration. When something comes up that I disagree with, I’ll ask myself: Is it tactical or strategic? Meaning, is it something short-term and for shock value but probably won't last — or is it strategic and long-term? And then, is it reversible or irreversible? Will it cause damage that can’t be reversed with a new administration? Does it pose an irreversible risk to our democracy?

We saw President Trump issue a raft of new executive orders and pardons, and it’s the first time that my framework is making contact with reality.

There were multiple executive orders of concern, but I took particular note of the pardons issued for those convicted of crimes on January 6, 2021 – especially as someone who barricaded herself in her office that day and watched bloodied Capitol Police officers defend our Capitol.

When he issued those pardons, the President sent a signal that those who commit violence on his behalf – even assaulting law enforcement officers – won’t face punishment under the law.

That’s a signal that political violence in support of President Trump is acceptable, and potentially pardonable, moving forward. It puts the rule of law, and our democracy, at risk. It’s not about partisan politics, it’s about law and character – and it’s a signal that can’t be unsent.

Thank you for your support as I embark on my third week as Senator, and my first under a new administration. I will continue to put my focus as a leader on helping Michigan wherever possible, and speaking up when our rights or our democracy are under threat.

Elissa
 


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