LANSING, Mich. — Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered an update Thursday afternoon on the state's efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.
State officials reiterated their calls for economic help from the federal government, as well as advice for families and friends to avoid gathering with anyone outside their household over the holidays.
Whitmer said President Donald Trump should focus less on the election results and more on a federal COVID-19 relief package.
"That's what the people of our country need more than ever," Whitmer said.
"Every person in this country is counting on the government to step up here," she continued.
Whitmer also said she hopes the state Legislature will share their plans for addressing the public health emergency when lawmakers return from their hunting break.
"I'm not sure what it is," she said about Republicans' plans. "I look forward to hearing what their plan is."
Whitmer was joined by Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, the CEO of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, as well as by small business leaders, who talked about steps they're taking to protect against COVID-19.
Khaldun said something state health officials are concerned about right now is a shortage of blood donations.
"Many people are still undergoing important medical procedures, or they have medical conditions that require a blood transfusion," Khaldun said. "And shortage of blood can have devastating consequences."
She urged Michiganders to contact their local hospital or the American Red Cross to find out how to donate blood.
Those who are feeling overwhelmed can also visit michigan.gov to find out how to speak to someone, Khaldun said.
Watch: