Whitmer visits White House again to plead case on tariffs, Medicaid and more

Grant Schwab, The Detroit News on Aug 5, 2025

By clicking submit, I authorize Arcamax and its affiliates to: (1) use, sell, and share my information for marketing purposes, including cross-context behavioral advertising, as described in our Privacy Policy , (2) add to information that I provide with other information like interests inferred from web page views, or data lawfully obtained from data brokers, such as past purchase or location data, or publicly available data, (3) contact me or enable others to contact me by email or other means with offers for different types of goods and services, and (4) retain my information while I am engaging with marketing messages that I receive and for a reasonable amount of time thereafter. I understand I can opt out at any time through an email that I receive, or by clicking here

WASHINGTON — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer met privately with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday to discuss the impact of tariffs on Michigan's automotive-heavy economy, recovery efforts from a devastating March ice storm, holes in the state's Medicaid budget caused by federal changes and more.

"I’ve always said that I’ll work with anyone to get things done for Michigan," Whitmer said in a statement. "That’s why I’ve continued to go to Washington, D.C. to make sure that Michiganders are front and center when critical decisions are being made."

Whitmer has made a habit of meeting in person with Trump, emphasizing that she disagrees with the president on many matters but wants to work with him in promoting the best interests of her state.

After the Republican leader returned to office in January, Whitmer made White House visits in February, March and April. She also greeted Trump upon his arrival in Michigan for a celebration marking the 100th day of his term.

The White House declined to comment on the Tuesday conversation, noting that it does not comment on private meetings.

The governor's visit came in the wake of several moves from Trump and congressional Republicans, with the potential for massive ramifications in Michigan.

Ford Motor Co. has argued that new tariff policies will disadvantage its business, Whitmer has noted that additonal resources are "much needed" for storm recovery in Northern Michigan and state officials have warned of a $15 billion hole in Michigan's Medicaid program over the next decade due to Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill.

Whitmer highlighted recent successes in partnering with the White House to suggest that further collaborations — namely adjustments to recent or planned policy changes — are possible.

"This year alone, we’ve secured major, bipartisan wins including a new fighter mission at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County, funding to protect our Great Lakes from invasive carp, and federal disaster support for communities in Northern Michigan impacted by historic ice storms," Whitmer said.

“I will always do whatever I can to make life a little easier for Michiganders and strengthen our economy. We should do everything in our power to lower costs and grow more good-paying jobs in Michigan. I appreciate the president’s time and attention to the matters we discussed.”

_______