Gretchen Whitmer: Three men cleared of plotting to kidnap governor

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Prosecutors say the plot was motivated by rumours that the 2020 presidential election would be stolen and opposition to Covid-19 restrictions imposed by Ms Whitmer's administration.

The group, which included members of the Wolverine Watchmen militia, planned to stage a "trial" of the governor for treason and hoped the kidnapping would spark a larger conflict.

Prosecutors said the Nulls - who are twin brothers - and Mr Molitor participated in military-style drills and travelled to Ms Whitmer's holiday home, where they shot a reconnaissance video.

Ms Whitmer was criticised by Donald Trump and conservatives for imposing a Covid lockdown in Michigan in spring 2020.

"A not guilty verdict on the plot to kidnap and kill Governor Whitmer in hopes of starting a civil war will further encourage and embolden radical extremists trying to sow discord and harm public officials or law enforcement."

But Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, whose office prosecuted the case, said the previous convictions of other members of the group "sends a clear message that acts of domestic terrorism will not be tolerated in our state".

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