Whitmer expresses openness to collaborate with Trump: "I believe Trump is concerned about Michigan's well-being"

In an interview this week, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer expressed her willingness to collaborate with Donald Trump, stating that the president-elect demonstrated a clear concern for her state.

"In a meeting of Democratic governors in Los Angeles, Whitmer stated that people in Michigan, like most Americans, voted for Donald Trump, and her oath is to Michigan. She acknowledged her experience in this type of environment and hoped to find common ground with Trump in important ways, despite their differences."

In the 2024 election, Trump regained Michigan and secured another term as President. Whitmer, a two-term governor of a crucial swing state, is viewed as a potential White House candidate in 2028.

Whitmer appeared to avoid confronting Trump publicly, as the federal government had the power to distribute aid and prioritize certain states' projects.

During his first term, Whitmer and Trump frequently clashed in the media over the administration's COVID-19 response. She was later considered as a potential running mate for Kamala Harris, but ultimately decided to complete her second term, which ends in 2027.

Kathy Hochul, another governor at the meeting, spoke to CNN and revealed that she had already had a phone conversation with Trump, emphasizing his status as a renowned New Yorker.

Hochul stated that the president, being a New Yorker, would comprehend the significance of the state's success.

Other Democratic governors at the meeting emphasized their role as the last line of defense against a potential second Trump administration.

"Hochul stated that it would be irresponsible of her not to anticipate all possible scenarios and listen to the president, his advisors, appointees, candidates, and Project 2025. She must be aware of all potential challenges and have a strategy to respond if they occur. Currently, she is playing defense, getting the game plan together, and being willing to work."

As the Biden administration nears its end, Democrats lack a clear national leader, with Biden being mostly absent from public view and Harris still recovering from her loss to Trump.

Several governors, including Whitmer, Newsom, Beshear, and Pritzker, are likely to compete in the 2028 Democratic primary.