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In a notable divergence from party norms, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has opted to engage with President Donald Trump’s administration concerning trade tariffs. This move comes amidst rising speculation regarding her potential candidacy for the 2028 presidential election.
While many Democratic leaders have distanced themselves from Trump throughout his presidency, Whitmer’s recent visit to Washington has sparked discussions about her strategy. Notably, Democratic governors such as JB Pritzker and Gavin Newsom have publicly criticized Trump’s tariffs in an effort to shield their state economies from the adverse effects of his trade policies.
According to Brad Bannon, a prominent Democratic strategist and president of Bannon Communications Research, Whitmer’s approach to engage with Trump is essential for her to effectively advocate for Michigan. He emphasized the unpredictability surrounding Trump’s trade agreements, which could profoundly affect the state’s economy. However, Bannon warned that aligning too closely with Trump could undermine Whitmer’s aspirations to secure a top-tier position in the Democratic presidential race, particularly when compared to rising stars like Josh Shapiro and Andy Beshear.
“This is a double-edged sword,” Bannon explained. “On one hand, she needs to maintain dialogue with the president for the benefit of Michigan. On the other hand, to bolster her candidacy for the Democratic nomination, she must also position herself critically in relation to Trump.”
The Democratic Landscape of 2028
Within the context of the upcoming presidential election, Bannon remarked that potential Democratic nominees must be outspoken critics of Trump. This sentiment resonates not only with Whitmer but also with other candidates like Andy Beshear and Pennsylvania’s Josh Shapiro, who face similar challenges as they position themselves for the 2028 race.
Gavin Newsom’s Cross-Party Outreach
Gavin Newsom, the governor of California and another potential contender for the presidency in 2028, has begun cultivating a bipartisan dialogue, particularly following the Democratic losses in the November elections. By inviting Trump allies and prominent conservative figures onto his platform, Newsom aims to demonstrate an openness to engage in constructive criticism and debate. This approach comes in response to critiques that Democrats have not effectively leveraged new media to connect with voters through unscripted conversations.
Whitmer has similarly embraced a bipartisan strategy. During her recent trip to Washington, she offered a measured critique of Trump’s tariffs while showing an understanding of his motivations. In a notable statement, she echoed Trump’s sentiment regarding the need for increased domestic production, saying, “We need to make more stuff in America.”
Whitmer’s Bold Stance Draws Mixed Reactions
The Democratic Governors Association, which praised the efforts of governors opposing Trump’s tariff policies, described Whitmer’s diplomatic approach as a willingness to collaborate with anyone for the benefit of Michigan. Sam Newton, the DGA communication director, articulated that governors like Whitmer are achieving real results for their states while resisting detrimental policies from Washington.
“Governor Whitmer and her Democratic counterparts are demonstrating their commitment to practical governance,” Newton stated. “As the Republicans contribute to economic turmoil and rising costs, the electorate must support Democratic leaders who prioritize effective solutions to pressing issues that affect families.”
Despite facing backlash from some within her party, Whitmer remains resolute in her commitment to effectively advocate for Michigan. After her speech in Washington, she articulated her determination to persist in her efforts regardless of the political climate, stating, “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu.”
An Evolving Relationship With Trump
Whitmer’s evolving relationship with Trump has garnered attention. Just a month prior, the two sparred following her remarks during the 2025 State of the State address, in which she warned that Trump’s tariffs might jeopardize Michigan’s vital auto industry. The White House responded to her comments, implying she was aligning herself with an outdated narrative.
Later in the month, Whitmer and Trump met for the second time, during which Trump lavished her with praise, stating she had “done an excellent job” as governor and calling her a
