Republican President Donald Trump arrived in Michigan on Tuesday and shared a hug and rare praise for Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer as they appeared together to announce a major new mission for an Air National Guard base outside Detroit.
Newsweek reached out to Whitmer’s office via online form Tuesday for comment.
Why It Matters
Whitmer, a Democrat and potential 2028 candidate for president, has been a historic opponent of the president.
More recently, however, the pair have been seen working together despite Trump winning the state in the 2024 presidential election.
What To Know
Tuesday’s military announcement is expected to ease concerns about a possible closure at the base.
During the announcement Trump said, “I want to thank Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer…You know, I’m not supposed to do that. She’s a Democrat. They say, don’t do that, don’t have her here. I said, ‘no, she’s going to be here.’ She’s done a very good job.”
Trump delivered the news that Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County will receive new F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets just after landing for an evening rally celebrating his 100th day in office. Whitmer, who has recently sought to build a more cooperative relationship with Trump, joined him at the event, prioritizing the new fighter jet mission as a key win for the state.
Trump said when the pair spoke earlier, it was about the Air Base’s future. “That’s the reason she came to see me, by the way, to save Selfridge. She was very effective,” the president said.
President Trump’s announcement shines a light on the victory for Whitmer amid her growing political influence while working across the aisle to push her vision for the base through.
When meeting with the president earlier in the White House this month, she received pushback from her Democratic colleagues for appearing with the president.
During Tuesday’s announcement, Trump prompted Whitmer to take the microphone to speak, where she said in part, “Well, I hadn’t planned to speak, but…on behalf of all the military men and women who serve our country and serve so honorably on behalf of the state of Michigan I am really damn happy we’re here to celebrate this recapitalization at Selfridge. It’s crucial for the Michigan economy, it’s crucial for the men and women here, for our homeland security and our future.”
Whitmer added that she was “so grateful” the announcement was made.
Associated Press
What People Are Saying
Governor Whitmer on X, formerly Twitter, on Tuesday: “To put it simply: this is a BFD. A Big Future-defining Deal. This investment means cutting-edge equipment, better training, and opportunities for Michigan families. It keeps Selfridge strong, growing, and ready for whatever comes next. @MINationalGuard”
Margo Martin, special assistant to Trump, on X on Tuesday: “Watch the Michigan National Guards reaction to President @realDonaldTrump announcing he is replacing the A-10 Warthog with 21 brand new F-15EX Eagle II Fighter Jets!”
What Happens Next
Trump is set to make remarks regarding his 100 days in office later this evening in Michigan.
Reporting by the Associated Press contributed to this story.
Update 4/29/25 5:54 p.m. ET: This story has been updated with additional information.
