Michigan Leaders Speak On The Death Of Colin Powell

(CSB DETROIT) - Former Secretary of State and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Colin Powell has died.

The 84-year-old struggled with COVID-19, along with several other underlying conditions.

His voice was one unifying both democrats and republicans among a polarized country.

Gov. Whitmer expressed her sadness over Powell's passing.

"Colin Powell was a statesman who served his country in uniform and at the highest levels of government for decades," said Whitmer. "As a soldier, he was deployed in the Vietnam War and went on to hold various national security and diplomacy roles under four presidents: Reagan, Bush Sr., Clinton, and Bush Jr. Secretary Powell embodied values we all strive to live by: fidelity, independence, and humility. My thoughts are with his family and all those who looked up to him as a soldier, a leader, and an American." 

In a statement, Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist II added to this, "He was our first Black Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and Secretary of State. For so many, he was a symbol of the heights to which anyone can rise in America. In the example of his leadership and devotion to public service, he will continue to inspire future generations."  

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