Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat, recently acknowledged former President Donald Trump's assistance in securing a critical project for her state. The governor specifically highlighted a fighter jet mission for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, an initiative she had been unable to finalize during the current administration's term.
Speaking on California Governor Gavin Newsom's podcast, "This is Gavin Newsom," Governor Whitmer discussed the necessity of effective governance, particularly in a state that has previously supported Trump. She emphasized the importance of fostering a working relationship with any president, regardless of political affiliation, noting it as an inherent aspect of her role.
"I've gotten some really good stuff done. Honestly," she shared with Newsom. "I got a fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and I tried to get that done under the Biden administration, couldn't get over the finish line, but I got it done with him. So, that's a huge deal to Michigan."
A representative for former President Joe Biden's office did not immediately provide a comment when contacted regarding Governor Whitmer's remarks.
The Critical Fighter Jet Upgrade
Governor Whitmer's comments appear to reference "Mission Next," an initiative designed to modernize the Selfridge Air National Guard Base. This project involves replacing the aging A-10 Warthog aircraft fleet with 21 state-of-the-art F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets. According to information from the National Guard, this modernization plan encompasses substantial construction and infrastructure enhancements, which are expected to generate employment opportunities and expand training capabilities for the region.
Former President Trump had announced details of this new fighter jet mission in April during an event at the Michigan base, commemorating his 100th day in office. Addressing members of the National Guard, Trump lauded the capabilities of the new aircraft.
"Fresh off the line. That means they are brand new," Trump stated at the time. "They've never been anywhere. This is where they're going to be for a long time. And I saw one of them, flew over my head, and I said, ‘What the hell is that?’ That plane has serious power. So, this is the best there is anywhere in the world, the F-15EX Eagle II. This will keep Selfridge at the cutting edge of Northern American air power."
A spokesperson for former President Trump's campaign affirmed that under his leadership, the United States Military would continue to maintain its global preeminence. The spokesperson added that Trump had secured the state of Michigan in 2024 and was committed to fulfilling his commitments to all Michiganders.
Navigating Political Divides
During her conversation with Governor Newsom, Whitmer reiterated her ability to collaborate with individuals whose political stances differ from her own, even when such collaboration proves challenging.
The Michigan governor gained widespread attention in April following an Oval Office meeting with President Trump, where she was observed attempting to obscure her face during photographs. Days later, she clarified the incident, explaining her simple reluctance to be photographed.
"I don’t want my picture taken, that’s all it was. I kind of wished I hadn’t put my folder up in front of my face, but whatever. You know I was there … I just wrote a book about learning to laugh at yourself, so I’m pretty good at it. We all have our moments," Whitmer explained.
Interestingly, Trump publicly commended Whitmer around that time, describing her as a "very good person," despite their history of political disagreements.
However, the current White House also criticized the Democratic governor in April, following the announcement that a local steel manufacturing company planned to invest $43.4 million in expanding its operations within Michigan. A representative for former President Trump's campaign highlighted his administration's focus on tariffs and deregulation as key drivers of economic delivery.
