An estimated 2,500 Michigan women were part of the march in Washington. Energized by victims' stories and the star power of TV talk show host Rosie O'Donnell and actress Susan Sarandon, the Million Mom Marchers had their day in the national spotlight. But now that the mothers are home, leaders of the movement are left with the process of building a real political force and overcoming opponents who say the momentum of the Million Mom March is dead in its tracks. This wasn't a one-day event. Patterson decided to run for state representative in the 86th District when she discovered the Republican incumbent, Valde Garcia, was running unopposed and does not support Million Mom March gun-control objectives requiring, among other things, national gun registration.
Mothers say their numbers are growing since the publicity generated by the march.
I'm seeing more energy, more enthusiasm. I don't think the other lobbyists are used to seeing a stroller at the Capitol, so I know we've made an impression. Critics say the Million Mom March leaders are underestimating the power of the National Rifle Association in Michigan. The mothers organization has also faced opposition from the Second Amendment Sisters, a group of women who oppose gun control. The group could not be reached for comment.