From today’s Detroit News:

“American Idol” contestant Matt Giraud of Kalamazoo, MI has a cheerleader in the Michigan governor’s office.

Gov. Jennifer Granholm today urged Michigan “Idol” fans to cast votes for the 23-year-old Giraud on Tuesday night in TV’s national singing contest. Giraud is one of seven finalists for the top prize.

“Matt is a talented young man who is making all of us in Michigan proud with his outstanding performances in the national spotlight,” Granholm said. “I encourage everyone to flood the phone lines Tuesday night and support Matt on his journey to win “American Idol.” I’m going to say something I rarely get the chance to say as governor, which is ‘Vote early and vote often.’  “

I don’t want to criticize my former boss, but I hope this isn’t part of Michigan’s economic development strategy.