- Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited the White House on Saturday, where she discussed with President Donald Trump and his cabinet.
- Whitmer expressed her hope to meet with Trump to discuss a significant economic development project along with her key priorities for Michigan.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer had a seat next to President Donald Trump during the National Governors Association dinner at the White House on Saturday, allowing her to present Michigan’s priorities while interacting with his cabinet members and discussing tariffs with Trump.
While some Democratic governors have positioned themselves in opposition to Trump’s second term, Whitmer—who campaigned against Trump last year—has opted for a different strategy by seeking common ground with his administration.
“I took an oath of office to the people of Michigan, which means prioritizing Michigan’s interests over my own or my party’s interests,” Whitmer shared with the Free Press on Sunday. “You can’t engage in important discussions if you aren’t present.”
During the gathering, Whitmer mentioned her discussions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth regarding a fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County and with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem about staffing commitments at the Gordie Howe International Bridge.
Whitmer reported that Trump had reached out to her about a week ago, inviting her to the White House. She seized the opportunity during Saturday’s meeting to discuss these initiatives.
“I mentioned, ‘You’ve invited me to meet with you; I would like to discuss several issues,'” she recounted.
While it’s uncertain when such a meeting might be arranged, Whitmer noted she hopes to address a significant economic development project proposed in Mundy Township, Genesee County.
Michigan’s economic development officials have allocated $250 million for preparations of an advanced manufacturing megasite in Genesee County. Whitmer refrained from stating whether the project relies on federal funding as well.
State Representative Jasper Martus, D-Flushing, whose district borders Mundy Township, informed reporters last month that the plans for Mundy Township await federal approval and voiced disappointment that this did not happen during former President Joe Biden’s term.
“For those of us whose districts are in close proximity, the prospect of creating over ten thousand jobs in Genesee after prolonged periods of underinvestment is significant; I’m willing to don a construction helmet regardless of who the president is to secure this deal,” he stated on January 13.
While Whitmer affirmed her willingness to collaborate with the Trump administration, she also voiced apprehensions regarding observations she has made thus far. This includes the proposed tariffs she believes could significantly impact Michigan, as well as concerns over freezing National Institutes of Health grants and potential federal job cuts.
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“I understand the importance of seeking efficiencies in government; it is always a priority,” she remarked. However, she expressed concern regarding the effect of federal layoffs and the wide-ranging repercussions of job cuts on American citizens.
“These issues are concerning, and that is why I believe it is crucial for me to maintain a seat at the table to voice these concerns and help inform better decisions whenever possible,” Whitmer added.
Contact Clara Hendrickson at [email protected] or 313-296-5743.
