Michigan Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer publicly credited President Donald Trump during her 2026 State of the State address in Lansing, acknowledging his role in recent economic developments. Speaking before the Michigan House of Representatives at the state Capitol, Whitmer highlighted new factories producing batteries, cars, and chips in Marshall, Lake Orion, Holland, Bay City, Calumet, Hemlock, Ann Arbor, and Delta Township. She also announced that a new fighter mission would be established at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County.
“Michigan is open for business,” Whitmer stated. “Probably not on the bingo card, but I want to thank President Trump for his work on this.”
Her remarks drew applause from the chamber, marking a visible shift after earlier White House visits where she was photographed shielding her face from cameras. Multiple reported meetings between Whitmer and Trump have focused on manufacturing investment, tariffs, and the Selfridge Air National Guard Base mission, with Trump previously praising her for an “excellent job” and calling her “a great person.”
The recent industrial expansion underscores strong collaboration between the governor and president on key economic priorities.
