By Brendan Scanland
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, one of the leading voices for Democrats traveled to Washington to discuss tariff impacts in her state and around the country before meeting one-on-one with President Trump in the Oval Office.
The message from the potential 2028 Democratic presidential candidate was one of unity and economic resurgence.
“So, here’s my pitch. Let’s keep going. Let’s make more ships and planes and semiconductor chips in America. Let’s cut red tape and unleash extraordinary potential of American industry,” said Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D), who spoke about getting things done, together Wednesday morning at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, D.C.
“I came to D.C. because I really believe in our ability to bridge political divides and make lasting progress,” said Whitmer.
Her remarks come amid tariff uncertainty and an escalating trade war with China, as the Trump administration looks to boost domestic manufacturing.
“The tariff on China will now go up to 125% because China imprudently decided to retaliate against the United States,” said White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt Wednesday afternoon. “When you punch the United States of America, President Trump is going to punch back harder.”
Despite a pause on many reciprocal tariffs Wednesday afternoon, Whitmer said tariff impacts are already being felt in her state, where nearly 20% of the economy is tied to the auto industry.
“I’m not going to sugarcoat it. These last few days have been really tough for Michigan,” said Whitmer. “Auto companies are stockpiling parts and laying off workers. Suppliers are facing higher costs and delaying expansions,” she added.
“Economists have pointed out that these tariffs represent the largest tax increase in nearly 60 years, costing families an average of $1,900,” said Whitmer. “It really is a triple whammy. Higher costs, fewer jobs and more uncertainty.”
Despite the criticism, Whitmer acknowledged some common ground with the administration’s goals.
“We do need to make more stuff in America, more cars and chips, more steel and ships,” she said.
As political tension over trade, inflation, and the economy gets louder, Whitmer says it’s time for a plan that spans administrations and political parties.
“Our people are not as divided as our politics. We don’t always agree, that’s for sure. But we move forward together. And that is a source of strength,” said Whitmer.
There is speculation that Gov. Whitmer could be a 2028 presidential candidate for Democrats. However, when asked during a Q&A forum after her speech about whether she is running, Whitmer replied by saying “no,” and that her trip to D.C. Wednesday is to provide a blueprint for success.
