Speaker hatfield, majority leaders, thank you. Members of my cabinet, members of the bench, and all of those who serve our state, thank you. I must say everyone is looking fantastic tonight. [ applause ] but this year i want to get one thing straight. This is not the red carpet, so please, i urge you, focus on the substance of my speech. Its about issues, not appearances. [ applause ] i mean, i dont care how distracting the senators outfit is. Cut him a break. Thank you. For your sense of humor. Tonight, i have the honor of both speaking on behalf of the people of michigan and directly to the people of michigan. So whether youre watching from home or you are in this room, welcome. I am glad that you are here. Im especially pleased that my family is here, mark and sherry and sydney. I couldnt do any of this without them. And i also want to acknowledge the dedicated Michigan Army and National Air Guard members who are serving overseas. [ applause ] as they represent our state and defend