LANSING, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – With eight days until the election, both Michigan gubernatorial candidates are increasing public appearances on the campaign trail.  

During the weekend, former President Barack Obama paid a visit to Detroit to voice his support for Governor Gretchen Whitmer. 

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“Michigan deserves somebody who is going to work everyday fighting for you. Somebody who is already doing it.  Who’s done it not just as your governor but for her entire career. And by the way you also deserve somebody who is going to stand up for a woman to make her own healthcare decisions,” Obama said at Renaissance High School.   

Despite her position as the incumbent, Whitmer has lost ground according to numerous polls that show Republican candidate Tudor Dixon closing of the gap.  

Dixon’s campaign weekend started on Friday when Arizona Republican Gubernatorial candidate Kari Lake, formally endorsed Dixon. 

“Gretchen Whitmer has done more to harm her citizens and children in that state than just about any governor in American history,” Lake said, “I encourage you to vote for the true outsider and patriot.  Please vote for Tudor Dixon on Nov. 8.  Tudor will be an incredible leader for Michigan and she has my complete and total endorsement.” 

Shortly thereafter, Dixon was joined by former Democrat Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard for a weekend of campaigns throughout Michigan. 

“Today’s Democrat Party could not be more different than that party 20 years ago that I joined,” Gabbard said at one of the rally events, “It has become the party of, by, and for the elite, rather than bringing to fruition the party of, by and for the people.” 

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Gabbard has shown her support previously and on Oct. 31 released a video vocalizing her support for Dixon as governor. 

“Tudor Dixon is a leader who will take Michigan in a bold new direction,” Gabbard said, “She’s fearlessly fighting to restore public safety in our communities, get our kids’ education back on track, and create a business friendly environment for job creators to thrive and grow.”  

“She’ll never back down until that mission is accomplished. I’m proud to endorse Tudor for governor and urge you to do the same,” she said. 

While there are some discrepancies between polls, many consider the two within single digits of each other, something that was not the case in early September.