Great Lakes Wire

Governor Gretchen Whitmer continues to engage with the Trump administration, focusing on various initiatives, including post-ice storm aid for Northern Michigan, controlling invasive Asian carp, and fostering economic development. Speaking at a luncheon hosted by the Macomb County Chamber of Commerce in Shelby Township, Whitmer emphasized her commitment to collaborating with federal authorities despite political differences.

“I’ve got a list of things that we need from the federal government,” said Whitmer. She acknowledged her past support for Trump's opponent but stressed her responsibility to pursue Michigan's agenda. “I’ve got a duty to continue to work with whomever is there.”

A significant portion of Whitmer's remarks centered on the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. President Donald Trump announced on April 29 that more than 20 F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets would be stationed at Selfridge starting in Fiscal Year 2028. The move has been advocated by local leaders hoping it will attract military personnel and boost local economic development.

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel noted that Whitmer's discussions with Trump were not politically motivated but aimed at securing a fighter mission for the county. He described criticism from within his party as coming from "one extreme."

Whitmer faced criticism last month for appearing in the Oval Office while Trump signed executive orders. However, she defended her presence as necessary to advocate for Selfridge. “I wish I hadn’t put that in front of my face, but at the same time … I needed to be there to make the case for Selfridge,” she said.

Looking ahead, Whitmer seeks federal assistance to prevent Asian carp from entering the Great Lakes, which could cause substantial ecological and economic damage. Additionally, no federal emergency declaration has been issued yet for northern Michigan following a late-season ice storm that damaged millions of acres of trees.

“We have the threat of Asian carp in our Great Lakes," said Whitmer. "We’ve got emergency funding for Northern Michigan that we’re trying to get done."

The bipartisan effort was discussed on MIRS Monday podcast by Michelle Smith, a Republican delegate who praised the cooperation between parties: “Getting a new mission at Selfridge is a huge win for the state.”

Democratic strategist MoReno Taylor II also commended Whitmer’s efforts: “You are elected to represent all of the people, and sometimes you gotta fight for those who may not necessarily care for you.”