Vice President Mike Pence appeared at two rallies in Michigan Monday on behalf of Republican candidates. In Waterford, he was the keynote speaker at a rally for congressional candidates Lena Epstein and Representative Mike Bishop (R-Rochester).
Pence put campaign matters aside at the beginning of his speech, and addressed Jewish Americans, in the wake of the murders of 11 people Saturday at a Pittsburgh synagogue.
"We are with you," he said. "Our hearts break with you, and we will never allow violence or anti-semitism to take hold in the United States of America. Ever."
Pence also interrupted his own speech, asking a local rabbi onto the stage to say a prayer, before he got back to the business of campaigning.
He praised the leadership of President Donald Trump on the economy, jobs, appointments of conservative judges, trade agreements and immigration, and said keeping the momentum of the President's agenda is dependent on the U.S. House remaining in the hands of Republicans in November.
Polls show Bishop, an incumbent, is in a tight race against Democrat Elissa Slotkin, and polls also show Lena Epstein slightly behind Democrat Haley Stevens.
"Let's make that blue wall hit a red wave right here in Michigan," he said.
Pence also appeared in Grand Rapids Monday evening, stumping for Attorney General Bill Schuette, who is running for governor, and John James, who is running against U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow.
Last week, President Barack Obama appeared at a rally on behalf of Democratic candidates in Michigan. Former Vice President Joe Biden will appear on behalf of Democratic candidates November 1 in Lansing.
