Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a potential contender for the 2028 presidential race, stood alongside President Donald Trump in the Oval Office on Wednesday. During their meeting, Trump praised Whitmer for her work as governor, a surprising shift from his previous harsh criticism of her. The praise came as Whitmer delivered a speech focusing on bipartisan cooperation, while Trump signed executive orders and criticized political opponents. Whitmer’s visit to the White House centered around discussions on tariffs and their impact on Michigan’s economy.
Trump’s Unexpected Praise for Whitmer
President Trump started his remarks with unexpected praise for Governor Whitmer. “She’s a very good person,” Trump said, adding that Whitmer had done an “excellent job” as governor of Michigan. This is a notable change from his previous relationship with Whitmer, where he often clashed with her, especially during his first term as president. Standing just feet away from Trump’s desk, Whitmer listened as he signed memoranda directing investigations into his critics. Despite the moment, Whitmer later clarified that her presence in the Oval Office was not an endorsement of Trump’s actions or statements.
Whitmer’s Call for Bipartisan Cooperation
Whitmer had been in Washington to deliver a “Build, America, Build” address. In her speech, she called for more bipartisan cooperation to strengthen U.S. manufacturing. “We need to make more stuff in America,” Whitmer stated, aligning with Trump’s stance on American manufacturing. She emphasized that tariffs, while sometimes necessary, should be used carefully. “I’m not against tariffs outright,” she said. “But it’s a blunt tool. You can’t just swing the tariff hammer at every problem.”
Whitmer’s more cautious approach to tariffs contrasts sharply with other Democratic governors. While some, like Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, have been vocal in their opposition to Trump’s policies, Whitmer has taken a more balanced position, especially on issues impacting Michigan’s auto industry. The state’s economy is closely tied to trade with Canada, Mexico, and other countries, making tariffs a particularly sensitive issue.
A Divided Political Landscape
Despite her cautious approach, Whitmer faces challenges in her political landscape. Michigan has a divided state legislature, and Trump won the state in both the 2016 and 2020 elections. This sets Whitmer apart from governors like California’s Gavin Newsom and Illinois’ JB Pritzker, who have been more outspoken in their criticism of Trump. In contrast, Pennsylvania’s Democratic Governor Josh Shapiro, who also governs a state that supported Trump in 2024, has expressed sharper criticism of Trump’s tariff policies, particularly their impact on farmers.
The Tariff Debate Continues
Trump’s meeting with Whitmer comes at a time when tariff policies remain a hot-button issue. Earlier in the day, Trump had announced a pause on tariffs in most countries, excluding China. Whitmer highlighted areas of agreement with the president on tariffs but also criticized how they were implemented. “I understand the motivation behind the tariffs,” she said, but stressed that tariffs should have clear, defined goals. She emphasized that using tariffs without a clear plan could harm Michigan’s economy.
In response to Whitmer’s speech, Colorado Gov. Jared Polis criticized the use of tariffs, stating that they often hurt American manufacturers. “Tariffs are bad outright,” Polis wrote on social media, “because they lead to higher prices and destroy American manufacturing.”
Whitmer’s Measured Approach
Once a fierce critic of Trump, Whitmer has adopted a more measured approach toward the president since his reelection. In recent speeches, she has emphasized the importance of finding “common ground” and working together, even when disagreements persist. “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu,” she said during a discussion after her speech, highlighting her commitment to advocating for Michigan’s interests, even in difficult circumstances.
Governor Pritzker and Gov. Newsom’s Responses
Other Democratic governors have taken a more critical stance toward Trump. Governor Pritzker has sharply criticized the tariffs, while Gov. Newsom of California has appealed directly to international partners to avoid retaliatory measures. Newsom’s statement, “California is not Washington, D.C.,” highlights the state’s distinct approach to the issues facing the nation.
Governor Whitmer’s visit to the White House marks an important moment in her political career. Her willingness to engage with President Trump on key issues, such as tariffs, reflects her focus on finding common ground while still advocating for Michigan’s economic interests. As she continues to navigate the challenges of being a Democratic governor in a divided state, Whitmer’s measured approach may set her apart as a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election.
