Michigan Senator Reflects on Challenges of Pregnancy in Pandemic Era

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan State Senator Mallory McMorrow‘s latest book, “Hate Won’t Win: Find Your Power and Leave This Place Better Than You Found It,” released March 25, offers a candid reflection on her journey as a legislator during an unprecedented time.

In the aftermath of a nationwide pandemic, McMorrow recounts her unique challenges of serving in the Michigan legislature while navigating her pregnancy. The timing of her due date, January 21, 2021, coincided closely with the commencement of legislative sessions when in-person attendance was still mandated.

McMorrow, who became only the second sitting senator in Michigan history to give birth while in office, contrasted her experience with her predecessor, Senator Stephanie Chang, who had organized her plans around legislative breaks. “I hadn’t planned my pregnancy expecting the realities of being a working senator during a pandemic,” McMorrow wrote in an exclusive excerpt for PEOPLE.

As the world transitioned to remote work, governmental institutions, including Michigan’s state legislature, resisted adapting to modern practices. McMorrow stated that despite available technology to facilitate virtual voting and committee meetings, rules insisting on in-person attendance remained intact due to traditionalist attitudes within the legislature.

The senator highlighted the physical and logistical difficulties of commuting nearly 100 miles to the Capitol while managing a newborn. Additionally, she emphasized the political and public health implications of in-person voting during a global health crisis. “This stubborn adherence to tradition created a vulnerable target for terrorism and mass disruptions,” she noted, referring to historical events that had left the government unprepared for emergencies like COVID-19.

In her book, McMorrow aims to inspire others to find their voices and take action for change within their communities. “This book is the culmination of it all — how I got here, what I’ve learned, and a step-by-step guide for anyone on how to find your own voice,” she said in a previous interview.

As detailed in her writing, one of the few measures introduced during the early days of the pandemic was Governor Gretchen Whitmer‘s announcement of paid family leave for state employees. However, legislators like McMorrow remained excluded from formal leave entitlements, which further complicated her circumstances.

Although McMorrow’s task was daunting, she amplified the importance of civic engagement and empowerment in her narrative. “You, dear reader, wield a vast amount of power and influence over what happens to these people and their families,” McMorrow wrote, encouraging constituents to recognize the significance of their vote.

McMorrow’s story serves as a testament not only to her resilience but also highlights broader systemic issues within government operations that became glaringly evident during a time of crisis. “We are bound by our own rules — yes, we oversee ourselves,” she explained, emphasizing the unique challenges faced by legislators.

Her book is now available wherever books are sold and aims to motivate others to navigate their paths to creating a better future.