LANSING, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Elected officials in Michigan are issuing statements after the passing of former Congressman Paul Mitchell, who represented Michigan’s 10th congressional district.
Mitchell, 64, was known for leaving the Republican party and becoming an independent over claims of fraud in the 2020 presidential election.
He was previously diagnosed with renal cancer earlier this year. He passed away on Sunday, according to his family members.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement Monday on Mitchell’s passing.
“Congressman Paul Mitchell was a fierce, independent voice for Michiganders. Throughout his tenure in the United States Congress, he led with his values and always spoke out for what he felt was right, even when he had to go against his own party, the president, or conventional political wisdom. After an incredibly successful career in the private sector, Paul entered public life, channeling his passion for people and innovative mind to help his neighbors and community succeed. He embodied values that we all aspire to have—he was independent, witty, and principled. Simply put, he was Paul, a joyful warrior for the people he believed in and for Michigan, the place that he loved. My thoughts are with Paul’s family, his six kids, six grandkids, his staff, and all those who were lucky enough to call him a friend. Paul, we will miss you.”
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel also released the following statement.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of Congressman Mitchell’s passing – a public servant who will be remembered for standing up for our democracy. Paul refused to throw away his integrity to earn political points, and while we may have disagreed on many issues, I will always respect and admire him for his commitment to doing what was right until the very end. My thoughts remain with his loved ones.”
Some of his former Republican colleagues also issued statements, including Fred Upton.
Upton tweeted the following message on Monday Morning –
“Paul was a trooper to the very end. He was always ready to fight on principle and was never afraid of the politics. As a valuable member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus, he had grown very tired of the gridlock in Washington, and always wanted to make a difference and that is what he did. Paul left Congress seeking more quality time with his family and I am so sad for all of them to see his life cut short.”
Mitchell is survived by his six children, as well as his wife, Sherry.
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