Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s demeanor has shifted recently. While she once maintained a distance, she has now become critical of President Trump’s remarks.
As a potential candidate for the 2028 presidential election, Whitmer is drawing attention in Michigan—a vital swing state where Trump claimed victory in 2024.
Unlike other Democratic contenders who are openly confronting Trump and the Republican Party, Whitmer has remained relatively quiet. Remarkably, she has shown a willingness to collaborate with Trump and has shared appearances with him, like during the summer.
This contrasts with California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has taken a more combative approach, openly mocking Trump online. Some suggest that Whitmer’s strategy aligns better with the mixed political climate of her home state.
Democratic strategist Joel Payne pointed out that Whitmer’s situation differs from that of other governors. “She can’t just perform political tricks like Newsom,” he noted. “The political landscape in her state is distinct.”
“She seems focused on solidifying her qualifications for Michigan while navigating her relationship with Trump and the GOP differently,” he added.
Insiders acknowledge that there’s a prevailing belief among Democrats that Whitmer might struggle against Trump and Republican lawmakers. Nevertheless, she has not hesitated to challenge Trump when she believes it benefits her state’s interests.
This week, Whitmer urged Trump to reconsider his administration’s decision to deny disaster relief to families and businesses affected by an Ice Storm that wreaked havoc in northern Michigan earlier this year.
“Michigan families and businesses deserve the support they need to recover from these storms,” she stated. “That’s why I’m challenging the administration’s refusal for disaster assistance.”
“I’ll continue to advocate fiercely, ensuring that residents, local governments, and utilities receive the help they need,” she added.
Whitmer’s balanced stance toward Trump, along with her tone within her party, has raised some eyebrows regarding her political aspirations. While those close to her claim she remains focused on her state and isn’t eyeing a presidential run, there are mixed sentiments among her supporters.
A Democratic operative noted, “People wish she would run, but for now, she doesn’t seem inclined to pursue it.” Another strategist remarked that her lack of direct attacks on Trump suggests she isn’t setting her sights on the 2028 election.
“Gretchen Whitmer is prioritizing state governance over a presidential bid,” the strategist stated. “If she were aiming for 2028, she’d likely take a tougher stance on Trump.”
Newsom isn’t the only prominent Democrat going after Trump lately. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker and Maryland Governor Wes Moore have also emerged as presidential contenders, clashing with Trump over issues like the deployment of National Guard troops in cities.
Amid this political landscape, Newsom has gained favor with voters, adopting strategies reflective of Trump’s social media style, while also focusing on reforming his state’s electoral map in response to changes in Texas. His rising popularity among Democrats appears to position him ahead of other 2028 hopefuls.
Strategists point out the challenge Whitmer faces in mirroring Newsom’s style, especially given Michigan’s unique political dynamics. Trump secured victories in Michigan in both 2016 and 2024, illustrating its different electoral landscape compared to states like California.
Democratic strategist Garry South emphasized, “Michigan operates differently. Voter registration isn’t partisan there. Considering Trump’s three attempts at the presidency, he likely won’t enjoy the same Democratic dominance as in California.”
“While Whitmer shines as a Democratic governor, she doesn’t occupy the same national stage as Newsom, Pritzker, or Moore,” South concluded.
Democratic strategist Anthony Corey added that while Trump faces challenges in Newsom and Pritzker’s states, “opportunities simply aren’t as visible” for Whitmer.
In recent weeks, she has leaned on her past cooperation with Trump to address essential issues for her state, such as tariffs and Medicaid reforms.
For instance, her office highlighted in early August how critical the tariff situation with Mexico and Canada is for Michigan’s automotive sector.
A May poll indicated that Whitmer’s moderate approach is resonating well; over 60% of Michigan voters expressed approval of her in a survey by a Democratic polling firm.
Payne commented on Whitmer’s effectiveness in connecting with her constituents, stating, “She seems focused on governing her state, and that resonates with the people there.”
