LANSING, Mich. — Governor Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan is aiming for a constructive relationship with President-elect Donald Trump while also firmly addressing her concerns regarding tariffs that could negatively impact the auto sector in her state.
Whitmer is set to deliver her first significant speech since Trump’s triumph over Vice President Kamala Harris—a candidate she actively supported during her campaign across the Midwest—at the upcoming Detroit Auto Show. This address is much anticipated in Michigan, where she has two more years remaining in her term, as well as among those seeking fresh leadership within the Democratic Party on a national scale.
The political landscape for Whitmer is complex, as she must navigate a divided state legislature while carving out her legacy in a state that has favored Trump in two out of the last three elections. Whitmer’s approach to this challenge differs from that of other prominent Democrats eyeing the presidency in 2028.
In advance excerpts of her speech, provided to media outlets, Whitmer will urge both her “friends” in the GOP and her “fellow Democrats” to work together. While she expresses a willingness to collaborate with Trump, she is also reaching out to leaders in Canada, a nation Trump has accused of unfair trade practices and suggested might be included in the U.S.
“There’s been a lot of talk about tariffs. I’m not opposed to tariffs outright, but we can’t treat them as a ‘one size fits all’ solution. We certainly shouldn’t use them to punish our closest trading partners,” Whitmer plans to explain.
Before her speech, Whitmer shared insights about her vision and goals in a conversation. When asked about her communication with Trump thus far, she confirmed that they have yet to speak directly but expressed her hope to connect in the upcoming weeks. She noted her plans to attend the National Governors Association meeting in Washington, D.C., next month, where she hopes to have dinner with the president.
“I look forward to connecting with the incoming president because we have many important issues to address, and the residents of Michigan elected us both twice, just two years apart. I’m confident we can find some common ground,” she stated.
Regarding her interactions with fellow Democratic governors and their perspectives on Trump, Whitmer emphasized the unique political dynamic in Michigan. “I’ve discussed with colleagues from very blue states that my situation here is different. I am currently working with a Republican-majority House, so I need to ensure that I can effectively deliver results while collaborating with federal officials,” she explained, asserting that her role is not strictly as a leader of opposition.
When asked about the potential for mass deportations under Trump’s administration—an initiative he promised to launch immediately upon taking office—Whitmer acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his policies. She stated, “It’s too early to predict exactly how the Trump administration will proceed. We are preparing for various scenarios, but I prefer not to reach conclusions prematurely.”
She emphasized that many statements made during campaigns might differ from actions taken in office. “People say a lot on the campaign trail; it’s another matter once they’re in power,” Whitmer noted.
As for the perception of women in leadership roles, particularly regarding the presidency, Whitmer addressed the fact that the U.S. has not yet elected a female president, despite the recent candidacies of two women. She feels that dismissing a woman’s potential candidacy on the basis of gender alone is misguided. “Many men have run for president and lost, and no one suggests that a male president isn’t wanted. To frame it in terms of gender often reveals their ulterior motives rather than reflecting on election outcomes,” she concluded.
In the upcoming years, Whitmer may emerge as a key figure in the political landscape, particularly for those looking for Democratic representation as the country moves forward.
