GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WWMT) – Trump-endorsed candidate Tudor Dixon won the Republican nomination for Michigan Governor during Tuesday’s primary election.
Just moments after polls closed in most of the state at 8 p.m. ET, the Michigan Republican Party called the race for Dixon, as well as multiple news outlets including the Associated Press.
Dixon later declared victory Tuesday from the Amway Grand Plaza in Grand Rapids.
“When the times get tough, the tough get going,” Dixon said.
She called out several of Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s policies in addressing supporters as the focus of the race shifted to the general election which would be the first featuring two women going head-to-head.
Dixon is a businesswoman in the steel industry and a conservative media personality. She has been endorsed by former president Donald Trump and the DeVos Family.
She detailed her strategy to rebuild and grow the economy in a 5-point economic policy plan. Dixon also proposed a ‘Parents Right to Know Act’ to increase transparency and accountability in public school curriculum.
“Now, it’s time, my fellow citizens,” said Dixon. “I want to make this a better state, and if we want a better state we need a better governor. Tonight, I ask you to continue that discussion with me. I’ll be interviewing for the job in this state in the days and the weeks ahead. We don’t need any more half-hearted promises from lifelong politicians. We need someone focused on our moms, on our dads, on our children and on our future.”
She defeated opponents Kevin Rinke, Garrett Soldano and Ryan Kelley to secure the nomination.
Dixon is the Michigan Republican Party’s first-ever woman nominee for governor.