Trump Invites Whitmer to Speak at Michigan Military Event

During an event at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Michigan, President Donald Trump surprised Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer by inviting her onstage and publicly praising her efforts to help secure the future of the base, which had been at risk of closure. Trump announced that the base would receive new F-15EX fighter jets, ensuring its continued operation, and credited Whitmer as being very effective in advocating for Selfridge. Whitmer, who had not planned to speak, expressed her gratitude for the recapitalization, emphasizing its importance to Michigan’s economy, homeland security, and the military community. The bipartisan appearance drew attention given Whitmer's status as a potential 2028 presidential contender and her history of criticism toward Trump. Some Democrats criticized Whitmer for working with Trump, but she defended her willingness to collaborate across party lines to achieve results for Michigan. The event highlighted both the political tensions and necessity of bipartisan cooperation on local economic and security issues.