Democratic Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer made a powerful appeal to both political parties Wednesday, urging collaboration with President-elect Donald Trump to protect the state’s crucial auto industry. Speaking at the Detroit Auto Show, Whitmer highlighted the growing competition from Republican-led states and international rivals, warning that Michigan’s economic foundation—its auto sector—is under siege.
Whitmer, who has earned national attention as a potential Democratic contender for the 2028 presidential race, emphasized the need for unity and compromise. “In the Whitmer house, compromise was a good thing,” she said, addressing both Democrats and Republicans. “I just want to get things done. Things that make a real difference in Michiganders’ lives.”
Despite her strong Democratic record, including a double-digit re-election win in 2022, Whitmer recognizes the importance of bridging the partisan divide. “Michiganders elected both me and Donald Trump twice, just two years apart,” she noted. “The people expect us to find common ground, especially when it comes to lowering costs, creating good-paying manufacturing jobs, boosting research and innovation, and cutting red tape.”
Whitmer’s call to action comes at a critical moment. Michigan has long been the top auto state, but other regions—especially in the South—are making aggressive moves to attract manufacturers with incentives and business-friendly policies. These states, including some led by Republicans, have been offering substantial tax breaks to lure companies, and Michigan’s leadership is concerned they might lose the edge.
“The very core of Michigan’s economy is on the line,” Whitmer declared, pointing out that foreign competition, particularly from Chinese firms like BYD, has also intensified. “We must all recognize that all of us are on the same team,” she added, stressing the importance of national unity to keep jobs within the U.S.
Whitmer’s position on tariffs, however, remains nuanced. While she’s not entirely opposed to them, she cautioned against using tariffs as a blanket solution, especially when they could harm relationships with vital trade partners and disrupt the auto supply chain.
As the governor enters the final years of her term—she is term-limited and cannot seek re-election in 2026—she is focused on securing a sustainable future for Michigan’s auto industry. Her proposal includes ideas like payroll tax cuts, investments in housing and infrastructure, and a strategic approach to balancing national and local interests.
In an uncertain political climate, Whitmer is committed to seeking collaboration rather than conflict. “I won’t go looking for fights. I won’t back down from them either,” she affirmed, signaling her readiness to stand firm on issues that matter to Michigan workers and the future of American manufacturing.
