HOWELL, Mich. — 6:00 PM UPDATE:
Vice President JD Vance visited Howell Wednesday to promote the Trump administration's economic agenda and address safety concerns in Michigan.
- •The vice president highlighted tax cuts for working families as part of the administration's economic plan.
- Vance offered to send National Guard troops to Detroit to address crime concerns.
- During his visit, Vance paid tribute to conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, who was killed in a shooting last week.
Vance delivered his message about rebuilding the American dream to Howell residents, focusing particularly on opportunities for young people.
WATCH: VP Vance brings economic message to Howell
"We got to rebuild the American dream especially for our young people," Vance told the crowd while promoting what he called the administration's "big beautiful bill."
The vice president emphasized the legislation's focus on tax relief for families and businesses.
"We talk a lot about the working families, tax cuts," Vance said.
According to Vance, the legislation will return more money to residents' paychecks while providing tax incentives for businesses to create jobs in America.
"Because I believe the American dream belongs to the American people," Vance said.
The vice president also addressed public safety concerns, highlighting the Trump administration's deployment of National Guard troops to cities they've identified as having high crime rates. Vance specifically mentioned Michigan's largest city.
"Gretchen we are happy to send the national guard to Detroit Michigan," Vance said.
The Howell visit came just one week after the shooting death of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, whom Vance credited as instrumental to his political career.
"I would not be here without Charlie," Vance said.
The vice president condemned the political violence against Kirk and pledged to defend free speech rights for all Americans.
"Whether you're a democrat or a republican, whatever your belief is, I will fight for your right to speak your mind," Vance said.
'Wouldn't be here without Charlie': VP JD Vance remembers Charlie Kirk during speech at Michigan plant
WATCH: VP Vance remembers Charlie Kirk's legacy
Vance recognized members of Turing Point USA in the audience, inviting them for a standing ovation, saying, "We love these kids and we love the organization founded by Charlie Kirk."
Vance praised Kirk for debating American citizens across the country regardless of their political background.
Vance condemned the shooter's actions for not agreeing with Kirk's ideas and said, "We debate ideas, and we are gonna keep on debating them in honor of the great Charlie Kirk as long as I have a microphone."
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