Whitmer, Trump Announce New Fighter Jets for Michigan Base

President Trump and Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer appeared together to announce a new fighter jet mission for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, securing its future and bringing economic benefits to the state. Despite their historically adversarial relationship, both leaders exchanged rare public praise, with Trump commending Whitmer’s effectiveness in advocating for the base and Whitmer expressing her satisfaction with the outcome. Whitmer, who had previously been criticized for her awkwardness during an earlier Oval Office encounter with Trump, emphasized that she puts the needs of Michigan residents above politics. The event marked a significant moment of bipartisan cooperation, as Whitmer worked with both the Trump administration and Republicans to achieve the new mission for the base. Trump also announced an executive order to support automakers—a measure Whitmer supported but approached with some caution due to ongoing concerns about tariffs. The encounter, including their handshake and mutual acknowledgment, signals a temporary warming of relations for the sake of Michigan’s economic and security interests.